NAM editor Donna Schmidt recently sat down with FLANDERS senior global product director Gerhard Labuschagne about some pressing issues for the future of drilling. Just what is an optimized mine from a driller’s perspective, and in the age of digitalization, what’s an engineer’s role? How are field relationships between operator and drilling partner key to each step of success along…
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ABB, LKAB enter technology partnership
Global technology provider ABB and Swedish mining and minerals group LKAB have signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) to form a strategic technology partnership to accelerate automation, electrification and digitalization in mining. The partnership will focus on some of the biggest shifts in the mining industry’s journey to the all-electric, automated and digitalized mine, enhancing safety, sustainability and productivity. ABB…
Read MoreThe rise of visual intelligence
From the pit to control room, how video analytics is streamlining mining operations in North America. by Gary Ng There was a time when mining oversight meant standing at the edge of a pit with a clipboard, hoping the dust did not hide the data. But today? The pit watches itself and reports in real-time. What previously relied on radios,…
Read MoreSandvik displaying its vision for mining’s future at MINExpo
Sandvik will introduce innovative new solutions and showcase its latest technologies at mining’s largest trade show, including battery-electric and diesel-electric equipment to help customers improve their sustainability. Sandvik will have its latest innovations on display at MINExpo International 2024 in Las Vegas, including its new Toro diesel-electric truck demonstrator and latest battery-electric concept surface drill rig. Sandvik’s 21,000-square-foot (1,950-square-meter) exhibit…
Read MoreDriving electrification
What challenges does electrification pose to vehicle drive systems? North American Mining spoke to experts at drivetrain specialists, Dana Inc., and mining OEM, Liebherr Mining, to find out. By Jonathan Rowland Electrification of mining vehicles is gathering momentum and represents a “significant shift in the industry,” according to Richard Kraemer, Trolley/Battery Sales Support Manager at Liebherr Mining. “Even as diesel-electric…
Read MoreSandvik unveils Toro LH514iE loader
Sandvik recently introduced the AutoMine-ready Toro LH514iE loader, a revamped version of its 14-metric-ton cable-electric loader. The loader builds on its predecessor, Sandvik LH514E, with several new updates to enhance safety and productivity. Sandvik, which has been delivering electric mining loaders for more than 35 years, built on its legacy and integrated the latest electrification, digitalization and automation technologies, making…
Read MoreISSUES IN SLURRY PUMP MAINTENANCE
Slurry pumps face very challenging operating conditions. An effective maintenance regime is thus critical for keeping them – and with them, the rest of the mine – performing as well as possible. We asked experts from Weir Minerals and KSB SupremeServ-GIW for their insight into some of the key issues. By Jonathan Rowland Slurry pumps face several challenges related both…
Read MoreStrayos, Quantum Systems announce strategic partnership
AI-powered software maker Strayos and drone designer Quantum Systems have entered into a strategic partnership that both said will transform mining operations through advanced technology and automation. The partnership, according to the pair, will bring together the capabilities of both companies, combining Strayos’ expertise in artificial intelligence and data analytics with Quantum Systems’ state-of-the-art UAV technology, and will empower mining…
Read MoreSolving Problems Through Chemistry
When It Comes To Improving Efficiency, Profitability And Sustainability In A Challenging Market, The Suppliers Of Mining Chemicals Have More Than A Few Tricks Up Their Sleeve. By Jonathan Rowland As is often noted in the pages of mining trade publications, the industry is facing a broad range of challenges. Miners need to extract more to meet growing demand for metals and…
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