CONTENTS
Welcome
The mining industry is currently experiencing several key trends; a fall in commodity prices and an increase in mining production costs (of almost 30%, according to consultancy firm PWC). In addition, the World Economic Forum forecasts a massive step change in the technology being utilised, not least the internet of things (IOT), robotics and artificial intelligence (AI). As so many articles in this August 2024 edition of International Mining Engineer demonstrate, the sector is currently embracing this transformation while remaining committed to its original priorities of safety and productivity. The article titled Smart ventilation (page 36) explores an innovative solution called Ventilation on demand (VOD) that works by utilising mine-based sensors transmitting real-time data on key parameters such as vehicle use and personnel. In other good news it seems
that greenwashing may be less commonplace in mining than it once was. Many operators and their suppliers recognise that sustainability is an economic imperative. For example, the cover article Electrifying underground operations (page 6) explores how electrification, and in particular, a battery powered electric truck trolley system, is helping mine operator Boliden meet its emission-lowering targets. New mining opportunities are
another key area of interest and Dig deep (on page 18) looks at how technology designed for deeply buried resources has been reconfigured leading to less downtime.
Nicola Brittain Acting Editor
www.engineerlive.com
6 AUGUST 2024 COVER STORY 6
10 12
14
Electrifying underground operations An electrified haulage system moves a Swedish mine one step closer to an electrified future
LOAD & HAUL
Battery-powered pioneer How one equipment company has put rechargeable batteries at the heart of its business
Storage volume boost Sideboards that can haul more material with each load
Change is possible How an operator's choice of engine can significantly lower production costs
14 3 DRILL & BLAST 18
22 24
Dig deep A look at new technology that provides access to deeply-buried resources
OPERATIONS MANAGEMENT
Tailings triumph Enhancing pump reliability in tailings operations
Top tier tools How the best tools help miners avoid downtime
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