Modern Quarrying Q2 2023

Partnering with an OEM for regular check ups can ensure operations continue to run as efficiently as possible.

CRUSHING AND SCREENING

Mining and quarrying are deep-rooted businesses. The oldest known mine is located in Southern Africa and was active, quite appropriately, during the Stone Age — an astounding 43 000 years ago. Possibly even more incredible are the ancient mines that are still producing. By Wilm Schulz, Haver & Boecker Niagara Service Manager EMBRACE DIAGNOSTICS TECHNOLOGY TO MAXIMISE PLANT PRODUCTIVITY

F ast forward to today, where we find an industry with a long history now characterised by advanced technology and innovative processes. The product hasn’t changed, but increasing infrastructure and construction needs create a demand for constant innovation in how material is collected and processed. Mines and quarries must stay on the cutting edge to keep up, maximising productivity and profits in a rapidly changing industry. One way producers are doing this is by embracing advanced technology and diagnostics processes. Digitally predict and optimise Plant simulation software helps operations to spot and fix bottlenecks and take some of the guesswork out of plant design. This tool provides an overall view of the efficiency of the entire operation in order to optimise processes and look at opportunities for improvement, both in the case of existing sites and

new mines or quarries for all mineral processing applications. Such programmes analyse dozens of different process equipment pieces, from crushers and vibrating screens to material washers and conveyers. Beyond equipment, the systems use scientific-based methods to monitor the operation’s input, output and waste piles. Plant simulation software is used by OEMs to diagramme plant flow by calculating the mass and volumetric flow rates with machine specific operating parameters when looking at machine placement. The software is also ideal for product pre-calculations when changing products or production rates, including dry and wet crushing, screening and sorting processes. While several brands of plant simulation software exist, few are created by equipment OEMs. Software functionality is certainly a critical element, but perhaps more critical is a firm understanding of the equipment and process the software is designed to optimise. Choosing software programmed by an equipment manufacturer

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