As the mining industry moves toward net-zero operations, electrification will play a crucial role in shaping the future of underground mining. North American Mining spoke to several companies whose pioneering electric load and haul solutions are driving the industry toward a cleaner, safer tomorrow. by Jonathan Rowland The shift from diesel-powered to battery-electric LHDs promises significant environmental, social and economic…
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The ins and outs of conveyor transfer distance, angle and overlap: An expert viewpoint from one of those who trains the trainers. Surface conveying can reach long distances with several transfers in less-than-optimal weather. Mine operators are discovering the ongoing cost of labor, gas and insurance for traditional vehicle ground transport far exceeds the upfront cost of conveying. However, inspecting…
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What’s driven the last 25 years in conveyors? What will advance the next 25 years? NAM asked an expert – Scott Gulan, Superior Industries’ director of business development, for his input. A strong infrastructure is often judged by the presence, power and efficiency of its conveyor line. Along the way, technology has evolved alongside conveyor widths, yields and speeds, as…
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A deeper dive into two newer machines that each play a key role in successful haul road management. There are many elements to a great haul road management program, but one factor often taken for granted is the polish: grading and dust control. While the Komatsu GD955-7 and Caterpillar 789D autonomous water truck are both relative newcomers to the market,…
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Minor lapses in safety protocols can lead to devastating and life-altering consequences. by Avadh A. Nagaralawala Workplace safety is a fundamental responsibility shared equally by employers and employees, as it directly impacts productivity, prevents injuries, and creates a healthy and secure environment for all. However, even minor lapses in safety protocols can lead to devastating and life-altering consequences. To illustrate…
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How some forward-thinking operators are discovering the improvement in safety and costs that can come from the emergence of smart PPE technology. A mining operation’s daily startup process remains critical and time-intensive to ensure the safety of those entering; teams and safety managers often begin their mornings managing extensive documentation, from verifying current certifications to reviewing equipment inspection records, often…
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The unsung heroes of underground mining are not the giant machines, but the humble utility vehicles that transport personnel, equipment, and supplies to the farthest reaches of the mine, thereby keeping the mine operations run smoothly and efficiently. by Harshvardhan Singh In underground mining, efficient and safe transportation of people, materials, and equipment is critical to operational success. Traditional methods,…
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How a former coal community is being revitalized thanks to a Department of Energy investment. by Josephine Patterson In October 2024, the Biden-Harris administration announced $428 million in grant funding for 14 projects to accelerate domestic clean energy manufacturing in former coal communities across the United States. The projects, led by small- and medium-businesses in communities with decommissioned coal facilities,…
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NAM presents this Q&A with Mathew Augustine, head of Product Development for Continental, about how industry challenges are innovating mining conveyor belts. Manufacturers of mining equipment are faced with increasing prices, supply constraints and environmental impacts when it comes to the materials and components they use to manufacture critical mining equipment. These challenges are then passed along to mining operators…
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How can mines reduce conveyor transfer point dust? Read on for details of skirtboards, curtains and more from Martin Engineering CEO emeritus Todd Swinderman. Most conveyors handling bulk materials have some amount of material loss from spillage, leakage, dust and carryback emissions, collectively called fugitive materials. The root causes are often obvious but rarely addressed – rather, the standard approach…
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