Improving production data quality in underground operations

Authors: Ferreira, N Download Paper

DOI https://doi.org/10.36487/ACG_rep/1710_50_Ferreira

Cite As:
Ferreira, N 2017, 'Improving production data quality in underground operations', in M Hudyma & Y Potvin (eds), UMT 2017: Proceedings of the First International Conference on Underground Mining Technology, Australian Centre for Geomechanics, Perth, pp. 617-622, https://doi.org/10.36487/ACG_rep/1710_50_Ferreira



Abstract:
One of the challenges in underground mining is a lack of operational visibility. By implementing a fleet management system (FMS) designed for the underground environment, mines are able to determine where their mobile equipment is located, what it is doing, and how it is performing, at all times. In addition, communication challenges underground can often make it difficult to capture reliable production metrics needed for effective decision-making. Examples include equipment cycle times, distance travelled, quantity and qualities of material moved, orepass inventory, work place status, etc. An effective FMS addresses all major aspects of the development and production processes, and provides a solution that manages the numerous and ongoing sequential, concurrent, and parallel efforts present in underground mining. With the right FMS, mines can realise increased equipment utilisation and productivity, maximised material movement, reduced waste and operational costs, and enhanced operator safety. This paper will demonstrate how an underground FMS helped an operation improve data accuracy through production cycle automation, offline data capture, and automated communications network switching.

Keywords: visibility, automation, underground, fleet management