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automated , long distance , heavy haul rail network for the mining industry , but it won ’ t be the last . The benefits of an automated rail system include enhanced safety and efficiency as mining companies can rely on the innovative technology to safely and securely transport minerals to their required destinations .

Already being utilized by a small group of mining companies , including diamond miner ALROSA , x-ray diffraction equipment is on path to become a global necessity . The equipment , which is currently used in diamond recovery , is an important method for the identification of phases in raw materials , for process control during ore beneficiation , and for the quality control of final mineral product .

3D mapping is another technological advancement that is expected to make a big splash in the mining industry within the next few years . Companies like Rio Tinto , which has already implemented the software at its West Angelas mine in Western Australia , are using the innovative

40 November 2014