In the eyes of those who don’t work in the industry, mining is considered a timeless and conservative profession – often with visions of traditional mining where workers dig through the Earth in often dangerous conditions. Visit a modern mining site today, and it’s easy to see how innovation and technology have played a crucial role in improving worker safety, increasing productivity and efficiency, and meeting some of the environmental concerns among communities. Let’s take a look at how modern machinery is changing the mining industry and innovation continues to improve the workforce.
Enhanced development of new mining sites
One of the most costly and labour-intensive undertakings in the industry is the exploration and development of mining sites. An ineffective development can cost companies hundreds of thousands of dollars and wasted man-hours. Modern machinery combined with satellite data and intelligent imaging allows for precise mapping of deposit locations and building a safe mining site efficiently. The modern process of site development is less costly without wasted effort.
Material extraction and transportation
In an established mining site, the daily activities are highly focused on extracting and transporting material. Without modern machinery, day-to-day operations pose high-risk conditions, inefficiencies, and downtime for equipment maintenance. A key player here is the conveyor systems that have revolutionized the transport of materials. In the past, this process was labour-intensive, relying on human workloads and strength to transport raw material from the extraction point to the surface for processing. It’s not hard to imagine the physical stress and health risks of traditional mining without the support of a modern and robust conveyor systems.
One of the key drivers in innovation for the mining industry is conveyor components manufacturers like Luff Industries. Luff can outfit any conveyor system with improved parts that increase efficiency, including conveyor idlers, pulleys, impact beds, and other accessories that enhance mining operations. An important factor of advanced mining technologies is Luff’s patented end cap design that extends the life of the system and reduces wear. While some envision innovation in the mining industry as big, modern machinery and robust equipment, the small details right down to the conveyor parts and accessories can translate to higher yields overall. Whether it’s smarter endcaps or an idler rollers supplier, these small but significant details should not be overlooked.
Automation and artificial intelligence
Mining is a highly labour-intensive industry that requires substantial man-hours. With the rise of automation and artificial intelligence, the question is not whether automation and AI has a place in the mining industry but rather how it can be integrated through an analysis of labour productivity. Along with the use of larger equipment and innovative conveyor belt systems, automated mining exists in the form of computerized scheduling, real-time processes, and robotic technology to reduce human labour.
Final thoughts
Mining sites in the present day are a strategic design of modern machinery, large equipment, and automated processes that continue to evolve with the times. Advancements in technology have not only allowed for reduced costs and less impact on the environment but, most importantly, contributes to significantly fewer safety risks for workers.
