It’s electrifying!

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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Sierra Madre restarts mining at Coloso

Sierra Madre Gold and Silver has commenced underground mining at the Coloso silver-gold mine, located within the producing Guitarra complex in Mexico. The mine was previously developed and mined by First Majestic Silver, and has over 12 kilometers of underground workings.  “This marks another milestone event in the restart of the Guitarra mine complex. The Coloso estimated resource grades are…

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Mining’s hidden helpers

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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Kovatera gains trademark status

Canadian manufacturer Kovatera said it is officially a registered trademark. The milestone marks an important step in its journey of growth and value creation. “From now on, you’ll see our logo proudly wearing the ® symbol – a symbol of our commitment to innovation, trust, and delivering exceptional solutions to our customers,” the company said in a LinkedIn post. “But…

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Micromine revolutionizes underground mine planning

Micromine has officially launched Micromine Advance, the first and only mine planning solution built specifically for underground metals. Developed through extensive research, real-world testing, and collaboration with underground mining professionals, Micromine Advance is purpose-built to model underground environments with unmatched precision. “Micromine Advance is more than just a new product; it’s a revolutionary leap in underground mine planning,” said Andrew…

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MSHA reports 24th fatality of 2024

The Mine Safety and Health Administration (MSHA) has reported that a miner has died from injuries sustained while realigning some longwall shields at Arch Resources’ underground Leer mine complex in West Virginia. The 34-year-old miner, who had 14 years of mining experience, was initially injured on September 28 when the hook and strap assembly broke while attached to two longwall…

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Voisey’s Bay is now mining underground

Vale has completed construction and commissioning of the Voisey’s Bay mine expansion project, transitioning the Canadian nickel mine from open pit to underground mining.  The project involved the development of two underground mines – Reid Brook and Eastern Deeps – which will deliver ore for processing at the company’s Long Harbour, Newfoundland, refinery. Vale said full ramp-up is expected by…

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Immersive Technologies launches ‘world first’ underground simulator tech

The Immersive Technologies IM360+ was recently unveiled for the first time publicly at MINExpo International 2024, along with never-before-seen visual system innovations to drive value for underground miners. This solution is designed for underground miners, who often face unique challenges in equipment operator training, the company said, and was equipped to combine stereoscopic 3D, photo-realistic graphics and RealView head tracking…

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Notes on underground mine safety

North American Mining takes a short walk through some recent topics in underground mine safety. By Jonathan Rowland Recent mining fatalities in the U.S. mining industry have involved vehicle collisions, electrocutions, falls, equipment rollovers, and drowning. Although fewer in number thus far this year compared to the same time last year, “fatalities, injuries, and illnesses are preventable, and one fatality…

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