Publication: Guideline for Implementation of Autonomous Systems in Mining, Version Two

Version 2 of the Implementation of Autonomous Systems in Mining Guideline, newly published by Global Mining Guidelines Group (GMG), outlines advancements in autonomous technology and captures applicable knowledge developed in this space since the time of original publication in 2019. Considerations are addressed to support the implementation of various autonomous solutions in both surface and underground environments.

“Addressing crucial aspects such as people, processes, and technology, the updated guideline aims to provide valuable insights for future users and stakeholders,” says Christian Quirion, Senior Advisor of Innovation, Agnico Eagle, and member of the project steering committee.

Quirion knows the value autonomous systems can bring to the table. “As part of the Mining 4.0 journey, advancements in autonomous systems within the mining sector are enhancing safety and efficiency.” Successfully integrating some of these technologies into operations, he cites noticeable improvements in efficiency to several areas of company operations, including:

• 7% less overbreak from automated/high precision development drills
• 10% to 20% productivity gains on underground automated production drills
• Implementing tele-remote development for face mucking during gas clearance periods (between shifts) results in a development rate that is 10% to 20% faster
• Improved haul truck utilization

The revised guideline provides considerations on planning, developing, testing, and deploying autonomous systems. It serves as a first step and aims to assist companies implementing autonomous mining projects, ranging from single autonomous vehicles and hybrid fleets to fully autonomous fleets. This guideline also provides a framework for mitigating risks and managing change.

Key changes include:

• Consideration for underground mining
• Greater consideration for different types of autonomous equipment
• Guidance related to full lifecycle costs, cybersecurity, performance, and metrics
• Expanded considerations for deployment, including commissioning and testing strategies
• Emphasis on the people, processes, and technology needed to achieve operational readiness

“The release of the Implementation of Autonomous Systems in Mining V2 guideline represents another major milestone in industry collaboration fostered through the GMG community,” says Graeme Mitchell, Autonomous Systems SME / Project Manager, Worley, and project steering committee co-lead.

“It was great to see a large cross-section of industry including miners, OEMs, OTMs, SMEs, and consultants collaborate to both build on existing content and develop new content to ensure the guideline maintains its relevance and supports autonomous operation deployments globally.”

Users of the guideline will be armed with key considerations for planning, developing, testing, and deploying autonomous systems tailored to the needs of their operation while mitigating risk and accommodating workflow changes. It is a start in maximizing the potential of this technology.

Read the full guideline here.

GMG welcomes guideline users to provide feedback for future versions and to share their experiences of applying the guideline here.

About GMG

Global Mining Guidelines Group (GMG) is a network of like-minded companies driving change in the mining industry. Together, we help develop knowledge, educate, and guide the global mining industry. We monitor the pulse of the industry and develop multi-disciplinary guidelines and strategies to manage risk, enhance performance, design solutions, inform planning and decision making, and save time and money. Our members are mining companies, original equipment manufacturers (OEMs), original technology manufacturers (OTMs), research organizations and consultants from around the world who recognize that innovation does not happen in silos. GMG improves communication and facilitates collaboration to foster a more sustainable and efficient future for mining. Our multi-stakeholder working groups address topics such as data and interoperability, artificial intelligence, autonomous equipment, underground communication, battery-electric equipment, and comminution efficiency in mining.