Capital Equipment News January-February 2024

MINING TECHNOLOGY

Leveraging AI Artificial Intelligence has been grabbing the headlines since ChatGPT burst onto the scene, giving rise to sensational news stories. However, AI has been around for a long time, working quietly behind the scenes. The ability of computer systems to mimic human thought and decision making to perform tasks that traditionally required human intelligence has played an essential role in TOMRA’s sensor-based sorting solutions for decades, automating the process and improving the accuracy and efficiency of the sorters, unlocking value for mining operations. TOMRA Mining’s experience with AI dates back to 1993 when its predecessor, CommoDaS, developed sensor-based sorters using AI in their image processing systems to identify particle properties. Over the years, sensor-based sorting technology has developed, and TOMRA has been using Machine Learning in its X-Ray Transmission (XRT) and Near-Infrared (NIR) sorters for the last ten years. Cost-effective and sustainable AI encompasses two sub-fields that have considerably progressed in recent years: Machine Learning, which recognises patterns, learns from data and improves without being programmed, and Deep Learning, which is a type of Machine Learning that uses artificial neural networks to analyse data and solve complex problems. These technologies quickly process vast amounts of data and use it to make decisions without human intervention. Machine Learning and Deep Learning can further improve the sorting process for mining operations already using sensor-based sorting but also open new opportunities by enabling the processing of very low-grade materials that previously would have been discarded. A further advantage of AI is the vast amount of data it generates and processes, which provides mining operations with valuable insights into the sorter’s performance and for predictive maintenance. It is important to note that Machine Learning and Deep Learning are not one-size-fits-all solutions. With its long standing expertise and extensive R&D in AI, TOMRA will always select the most suitable technology for each case. How to OBTAIN works TOMRA is now breaking new ground with its latest innovation, which leverages Deep Learning to introduce an industry first: single-particle precision in high throughput ore sorting. This revolutionary software uses a Neuronal Network to

The OBTAIN™ software has been developed for TOMRA’s XRT sorters. It will be available on new models, but an upgrade package will also be available for existing machines, providing a significant opportunity for customers already operating TOMRA XRT sorters to substantially enhance the sorting performance where it proves to be a suitable solution.

TOMRA Mining sets sights on sensor-based sorting with Deep Learning technology TOMRA Mining unveiled its latest innovation, OBTAIN™, at the Mining Indaba exhibition in Cape Town this month. This ground-breaking software leverages Deep Learning to bring single-particle precision to high throughput particle sorting, taking capacity, quality and recovery to a new level and unlocking value through a wealth of highly detailed and accurate data for better-informed decision-making.

“M ining Inda ba, one of the most important events in the mining industry, is the perfect platform for us to unveil our revo

lutionary OBTAIN™. This exciting innovation marks the beginning of a new era in sensor-based sorting and will enable mining operations to unlock untapped value and extend the life of their mine,” says Albert du Preez, Head of TOMRA Mining.

This is an exciting innovation that marks the beginning of a new era in sensor-based sorting and will enable mining operations to unlock untapped value and extend the life of their mine.

Albert du Preez, Head of TOMRA Mining

TALKING POINT

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