Mining Weekly

Mining and communications technology provider 3D-P has released the 3D-P Production Reporting and 3D-P Maintenance Reporting systems, powered by iVolve, to improve the efficiency of mines.

Adding to its current portfolio of application integration solutions and wireless network services, 3D-P recognised the need in the mining industry for a cost-effective solution for real-time reporting of production and maintenance data from the mobile fleet.

“We are excited about the introduction of the 3D-P Production and Maintenance Reporting systems to meet these needs and help mine management make better decisions and enhance the use of their production fleet,” 3D-P sales and marketing VP David Fisk comments.

The company explains that the 3D-P Production and Maintenance Reporting systems are targeted specifically at mines that are in need of simple and easy-to-use reporting for production and maintenance data, noting that running on the 3D-P Intelligent Endpoint, the system leverages the capabilities of 3D-P’s high-performance wireless networks.

Customers using legacy iVolve systems in Australia are consistently reporting that access to their critical equipment data is allowing them to make more timely and accurate decisions, positively impacting on cycle times, production and costs.

“Many mines continue to gather and report data manually, resulting in delayed access to production and maintenance information. This results in delayed corrective actions that should often be taken immediately and decisions being made without all the correct data on hand, potentially causing significant consequences for the mining operations,” notes 3D-P.

Additionally, the company highlights that its Plant Management module provides an easy-to-use monitoring and control system for the management of site equipment such as light plants and pumps.

Further, the 3D-P Production and Maintenance Reporting solutions interface with the systems on board a mine’s haul trucks, loaders and other equipment, gathering production data, such as payload, location and status, and maintenance data, including temperature and pressure, and reports these readings using flexible and easy-to-use dashboards in real time.

As a result, information can be reported to the operator in the cab, allowing trucks to be loaded more consistently and often providing an increase of up to 10% in productivity, says 3D-P, adding that the centre of gravity is also reported to operators, allowing trucks to carry larger loads safely, supporting productivity gains.