SUSTAINABILITY
from each unit of raw materials and extend the lifetime of equipment across mining operations ,” assures Douglas .
Beyond using less resources such as energy and water , another direct benefit from digitalization can be in reducing emissions . “ Take for instance the pyro process often used in nickel , alumina , chrome , and lime industries where digital solutions can have direct impact on the pyro processing efficiency ,” offers Douglas . “ Advanced sensor technologies measuring both the kiln shell temperature and analysing gases such as CO , NO , SO₂ , CO₂ , HCl and O₂ are providing valuable parameters for an advanced process optimisation solution , contributing to a more stable operation , reduced fuel consumption and thereby reduced emissions .”
Advanced and intelligent controls have emerged as the digital technologies driving performance improvements , and are now generally accepted as an advantage in most modern high capacity concentrators . For instance , Douglas highlights : “ Monitoring systems for SAG mills can allow it to be constantly adjusted to ensure the ideal amount of energy is being used for ore reduction . By operating your mill more efficiently , energy usage can be cut considerably . Digital solutions like this also mean production also increases , while process and quality variability is cut .”
Future-Proofing Mining Douglas expects a push for more sustainable mining solutions to expand in 2021 , as miners continue to announce ambitious targets in this area ; such as 30-40 % reductions in GHG emissions over the next decade or strategies for future net-zero carbon ambitions .
“ A key factor in achieving mining ’ s evergreening goals will be the integration of
“Digital solutions , data optimised processes and AI-based decision making will support our customers ’ goals in reducing their environmental footprint ”
WAYNE DOUGLAS HEAD OF DIGITAL - MINING , FLSMIDTH
114 May 2021