Increase the trucking factors
MINES around the world are increasing trucking factors and production with innovative load scanning technology from Loadscan.
Aeris Resources’ Tritton mine was one of the first local mines to invest in Loadscan technology.
The NSW copper mine credits the installation of its load volume scanner (LVS) for a 9.7pc increase in trucking factors, worth a massive US$430K per month.
Tritton purchased a block-mounted fixed LVS and installed it on the road between the portal and the processing plant in 2015.
The LVS unit allowed non-contact, automated drive through scanning which was more attractive with minimal maintenance required than with the old inground scale.
Aeris Resources geotechnical engineer at Tritton mine Matthew Gouldstone said that the return on investment was extremely quick.
“Within the first full month after installation, the LVS paid for itself,” Mr Gouldstone said.
The first LVS install was so successful that Tritton installed a second LVS unit into its Murrawombie site in 2017.
The mine previously used paper plods, generated by truck drivers, to track loads shifted.
This manual recording system added data entry time to the daily workload of the haulage supervisor.
Now, with the inclusion of Loadtrak in- cab consoles, this is all captured by the LVS system automatically, removing 20- 30 minutes of data entry per shift; streamlining operations and reporting.
Increased trucking factors
Mines worldwide are achieving up to 15pc increase in trucking factors, thanks to optimised loading, accurate monitoring and the removal of haul-back.
Fulfilled resource potential
The scanner can contribute to unlocking mine potential as quickly as possible through increased productivity, lower cost per tonne hauled, and precise traceability.
Operational performance monitored
Mine management is enabled to manage haul-back and reveal the true shift tally. Managers can accurately calculate net volumes delivered for processing, minimise truck downtime, and eliminate quantity disputes between haulage and mill.
Safety in place
The LVS provides 3D load profiles for every load enabling early detection of overloading or off-centre loading. Good load placement also helps maintain good haul roads (decreasing the risk of road deterioration which leads to poor ride quality and whole body vibration).
Upskilling of workers
The LVS can cater as an ongoing training tool educating loaders using real-life visual feedback.
Time-saver
The LVS eliminates manual data entry/ driver records as well as minimising paperwork — no more after-shift record sorting!
For more information visit: www.loadscan.com or IMARC stand A6.