Automation technology to increase productivity and reduce energy consumption in deep underground mining operations

摘要

Trials of automated technology at underground mine sites around the world have reported increased production and the potential for lower energy consumption. Autonomous mining eliminates a range of delays related to operator downtime and travel to the workface and facilitates continuous operation in conditions that are unsafe for workers. Automation also introduces complexities and safety hazards arising from equipment-personnel interactions;;automated processes must be isolated from other stope-cycle-related activities such as production drilling, development, loading, and backfilling, potentially requiring changes to the mine design to maintain an efficient and safe operation. This paper reviews and discusses the implementation of automated equipment in deep underground mining operations and the challenges and advantages associated with the technology.