– Charles McHugh , Rio Tinto ’ s manager for mining disciplines
Machinery
The mining industry is witnessing a technological boom . The once archaic sector is rapidly upgrading , implementing bigger , faster and smarter equipment . Companies like BHP Billiton and Rio Tinto , which burst onto the scene with the first driverless trucks , have shown the future of mining leads to automation .
The concept of autonomous drills isn ’ t new . Mining companies like Caterpillar , Sandvik and others have been configuring the idea for quite some time . It ’ s what those companies are creating for the future
Atlas Copco Christensen CT20 that will really revolutionize mining operations for years to come .
Operations Automated drilling features a remote control system that allows operators to mechanically load and unload the drill rod from the tower frame at a distance and without any physical contact .
Rio Tinto and equipment manufacturer Sandvik have been working together since 2008 to develop technology for its Mine of the Future . The mining company has been testing the technology at its Pilbara operations in Western Australia .
According to Rio ’ s manager for mining disciplines , Charles McHugh : “ Atlas Copco and Rio Tinto worked
“ We are also seeing improved drill utilization and consistency in drill outcomes , providing more accurate information for mine operation ”
– Charles McHugh , Rio Tinto ’ s manager for mining disciplines
16 A ugust 2014