Mine of the Future
For future access to resources, we are looking beyond our current licence to operate and thinking about better ways of mining.
With our Mine of the Future™ programme we are demonstrating improvements to mining processes that include unprecedented levels in automation, and remote operations that will revolutionise the way mining has been conducted for more than 100 years.
Mine of the Future™ will help us improve our sustainable development performance in several areas. The programme is designed to create next generation technologies for mining operations that result in greater efficiency, lower production costs, improved health, safety and environmental performance, and more attractive working conditions.
- Innovation
- Engagement
- Results
We are turning the Mine of the Future™ into reality at a rapid pace. We commissioned the A Pit test mine in late December 2008. This signals the first wave of the Mine of the Future™ breakthrough programme.
A Pit has effectively showcased a number of foundation technologies spanning the Rio Tinto autonomous drill rig platform, with control and supervision able to be provided by our remote operations centre in Perth; and the Komatsu FrontRunner® autonomous haul truck system and semi autonomous smart explosive loading.
Komatsu FrontRunner® consists of a fleet of mining equipment that hauls ore autonomously. Artificial intelligence in the equipment learns the layout of the mine, how to recognise and avoid other vehicles and obstacles, and how to ferry loads rapidly and efficiently from loading face to dump with the least wear and tear, delay and use of fuel.
In addition, A Pit has allowed for the demonstration of a range of subsidiary technologies such as high precision GPS; advanced site wide networking solutions enabling machine control communication; real time safety monitoring of personnel and equipment using proximity detection; and remote expert human support and planning systems. Results from A Pit are being analysed using sophisticated modelling techniques allowing for the learnings to be extrapolated across both the Pilbara and other Rio Tinto operations worldwide. We intend to conclude the A Pit trial by the end of 2010 and develop a Mine of the Future™ technology roll out road map.
In parallel with the A Pit Mine of the Future™ effort, Rio Tinto Iron Ore commissioned the revolutionary Operations Centre (OC) in Perth. The OC will manage all aspects of operational control for mining, rail transport, ship loading and associated critical infrastructure (eg power and water) for all Rio Tinto Iron Ore Pilbara operations.
The OC provides unparalleled levels of control and enables the execution of integrated planning and remote technical support. This helps optimise Rio Tinto Iron Ore's mining operations end to end, improving our ability to maximise operational productivity while minimising waste.
