Quarry Automation
Embrace automation in quarries
Automating a quarry would mean more operator safety as employees can work from the control room instead of a not-so-friendly onsite. More people will be willing to join the industry, if they don’t have to face harsh environment.
We are in a digitalised world and the crushing industry is no exception. It is but a fact that in a completely modernised crushing plant, every other process is automated to some degree – be it crushing, screening, stockpiling or loading the end product. It is but a fact that whatever level of automation is chosen, it is sure to give significant gains.
Introduction of a new automation system or upgrading an existing one can help improve plant efficiency. Simply put, automating a system will enable the machine to run independently at near full capacity. With less manual interventions, costs will be reduced and profitability will be maximised. With automation, the system works optimally with the plant’s other machines.
Stakeholders may choose automation for various reasons. It could be to eliminate downtime, reduce energy consumption or regulate their operations. Automating a quarry would mean more operator safety as employees can work from the control room instead of a not-so-friendly onsite. More people will be willing to join the industry, if they don’t have to face harsh environment.
Usually, a full site audit is done to identify the quarry’s needs and this is the first step. The size, age, condition and complexity of the project will decide the duration of the typical site audit. Electrical and hardware components are checked for wear and tear. This is followed by a complete analysis of the crushing process, identify the real issues behind any inefficiency and work around the process to find a solution. Designing a new crushing automation system may take a few months, depending on the plant. In the case of upgradation, the modern systems must be able to integrate with the plant’s existing equipment. All upgrades must meet existing and new legal regulations. Every aspect is analysed during the design phase, with design, build and testing repeated until everything is fixed.
Automation gives a major edge as it gives improved information integration, visualisation and control of operations.
Epiroc, with a rich legacy of more than 140 years, has automation and system solutions that can make the work easier, safer and more efficient. It asks stakeholders to start smart by collecting data or automate part of the fleet or go for full autonomous operation.
Epiroc offers a range of partner services, from audit to network support and project management. They develop customised automation solutions and strategies to meet and exceed goals for profit, safety and sustainability.
Sandvik mining automation and teleoperation systems enable machine monitoring and provide a full fleet overview. These software systems control and optimise operations, enhancing productivity and safety while reducing total ownership costs. They are available across various Sandvik products for both underground and surface mining applications.
The AutoMine product group from Sandvik offers autonomous and remotely operated mobile equipment. It allows operators to simultaneously control and monitor multiple underground and surface machine operations in the comfort and safety of a remote-control room. With AutoMine, customers can scale automation at their own pace.
OptiMine Mining Data Platform (MDP) enables real-time monitoring of machines, workers, equipment and material underground to improve safety and productivity at mine sites. It is the first AI-powered data aggregation platform and enables mines to connect all IoT devices into a single data repository.
Sandvik Automation Learning Solutions is a complete training package which covers all aspects of AutoMine remote and autonomous operations. The program delivers high-quality training anywhere in the world, with both virtual and in-person training methods available.
Increasingly more companies are opting for automation as it gives a great customer experience, improved work culture for employees, a competitive edge to companies, economic benefits, reduces errors, improves quality and enhances productivity.
