Modern Quarrying Q1 2023

AUTONOMOUS EQUIPMENT

Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Machine Learning (ML) have begun to transform many sectors, and the mining industry is no different. The inherently hazardous environment within a mine can be made far safer with AI-based solutions such as autonomous equipment. By Maureen Phiri, Sales Manager at Oxyon People Solutions. AUTONOMOUS EQUIPMENT IMPROVES QUARRY SAFETY AS WELL AS PRODUCTIVITY AND EFFICIENCY

N ot only do these injuries and fatalities while also improving skills development and enhancing productivity, efficiency, and profitability. Ensuring that mine workers have the skills to make use of these next generation tools is imperative and partnering with an experienced Temporary Employment Services (TES) provider can be hugely beneficial in this regard. solutions enable improved working conditions, but they mitigate the risk of

The 4 th industrial revolution As the world has become increas ingly digitalised, we have moved into the 4th Industrial Revolution, also known as 4IR. One of the hallmarks of this revolution is the use of automated technology to disrupt and enhance processes. In the mining industry, a sector that is already unpredictable and sensitive to change, investment in automation solutions can help to improve safety, sustainability, productivity, and efficiency. With already high operating costs and dangerous working

conditions, many mines are investing in the use of AI, ML, Virtual Reality (VR), and

particularly robotic solutions, such as autonomous equipment. These solutions enable machines to perform dangerous tasks such as mapping and surveying, drilling and explosives handling, jobs which previously required the proximity of people, which in turn placed their lives in danger. Now, robots can take on these tasks instead, with greater accuracy, more efficiency and far less risk to human life.

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