Modern Mining October 2020

Sandvik Mining and Rock Technology used its Innovation in Mining Virtual Event on September 29, 2020 to reveal its future vision and con- cept for autonomous mining equipment. The fully working and autonomous AutoMine Concept vehicle is based on the latest technologies and equipped with completely new sensing capabilities and artificial intelligence to enhance mining operations. The AutoMine Concept perceives its surroundings and environment in 3D and reacts to it in real-time. These technologies provide clear customer advantages by allowing vehicles to adapt and plan their own routes, and to find the most suitable paths even in continuously changing envi- ronments. The obstacle detection, collision avoidance and 3D online mapping capabilities improve adaptability and increase flexibility. “The AutoMine Concept is unique, because it has been designed ground-up for autonomous use. It is the world’s first fully autonomous underground mining machine built specifically for automation,” says Sandvik reveals AutoMine concept

The new technologies showcased in the AutoMine Concept will lead the way for the future of the existing, world-leading AutoMine product.

Riku Pulli, vice president, Automation at Sandvik Mining and Rock Technology. “This technology raises ease-of-use, effectiveness of asset utilization and adaptability to a new level, resulting in higher productivity. These technologies will truly change the face and pace of autonomous mining.” This game-changing platform is a foun- dation for using the AutoMine technology in various equipment types and can be applied to any vehicle. The AutoMine Concept vehicle also has a completely new industrial design without a cabin, and with built-in components for high reliability and productivity. This autonomy platform allows for equipment design that is opti- mized for its primary production tasks without compromises. Furthermore, being fully battery-electric, it drives sustainability in mining without carbon emissions. 

Cleaning up liquid spills at mines Strict health and safety regulations in the mining industry mean that any liquid spills in workshop areas or elsewhere need to be cleaned quickly and effectively. This is where a completely natural, mineral product called Gunge Spunge is playing a major role. Produced by South African manufacturer Pratley, Gunge Spunge is the ideal product for cleaning up any liquid spills, including petrol, diesel, oil, sewage and other nui- sance liquids. Sawdust and other flammable materials were traditionally used to clean up highly combustible hydrocarbons. This is not only ineffective but also potentially hazardous. In fact, many mines and municipal by-laws now prohibit their use. Gunge Spunge offers the ideal solution in that it is extremely effective,

non-flammable and eco-friendly, explains Pratley marketing manager, Eldon Kruger. Gunge Spunge is processed from a spe- cific mineral that is 100% naturally occurring and is completely non-toxic. Apart from its desiccating properties, whereby it absorbs moisture in confined areas prone to damp, it also has cation absorption properties, allow- ing it to absorb rather than mask odours. This ensures that odours are eliminated for good. Extensive testing by Pratley’s world-class research and development team has proven the application of Gunge Spunge in ardu- ous operating environments such as mines. Gunge Spunge is supplied in 12 kg bags, although special arrangements can be made for the larger quantities required by the min- ing industry in particular. 

October 2020  MODERN MINING  37