Canadian Mining Journal May 2019

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DIGITAL TECHNOLOGY GAINS MOMENTUM

MAY 2019 | www.canadianminingjournal.com | PM # 40069240

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CANADIANMINING

MAY 2019 VOL. 140, NO. 4

JOURNAL

FEATURES

20 XPS outlines innovations that get to the root of plant problems.

CMJ

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DIGITAL TECHNOLOGY 24 Dundee tests drones in new frontiers – underground.

28 How miners can leverage crowdsourcing to solve their toughest

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challenges.

34 SGS launches near real-time lab service in the field.

C A N AAsD IT I Aand N MOTI Nsystems I N G J Obecome U R N A more L 38 integrated, miners must adopt more sophisticated cybersecurity strategies.

43 A panel of miners at this year’s PDAC convention dishes on the challenges and triumphs of digitalization.

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48 Environmental DNA technology has the potential to cut monitoring and environmental assessment costs and it’s now available to industry.

MINE & MILL SAFETY 52 How Maptek’s slope monitoring technology enhances safety at mine sites.

56 Hatch describes how miners can harness advances in robotics and AI for safety and productivity.

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DEPARTMENTS 5 EDITORIAL | Are miners ready for the challenge of transparency?

Sander Grieve of Bennet Jones parses the promises and concrete actions for miners in recent government budgets across Canada.

6 LAW |

8 CSR & MINING | Jane Church and Carolyn Burns of NetPositive describe

how automation is changing the benefits local communities can expect from mining.

10 COMMENTARY | Don Duval, CEO of Norcat, has advice for mining

ABOUT THE COVER

This month’s cover supplied by Sandvik.

companies on how to leverage AI as a business tool.

12 UNEARTHING TRENDS | EY Canada’s Yogen Appalraju on how miners

can develop effective cybersecurity strategies.

16 FAST NEWS | Updates from across the mining ecosystem.

58 NEW PRODUCT SHOWCASE

www.canadianminingjournal.com MAY 2019

Coming in June Canadian Mining Journal looks at reclamation and closure. Plus our semi-annual Equipment Maintenance & Repair supplement.

For More Information

Please visit www.canadianminingjournal.com for regular updates on what’s happening with Canadian mining companies and their personnel both here and abroad. A digital version of the magazine is also available at www.digital.canadianminingjournal.com

CANADIAN MINING JOURNAL |

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FROM THE EDITOR MAY 2019 Vol. 140 – No. 4

CANADIANMINING 225 Duncan Mill Rd. Suite 320, Toronto, Ontario M3B 3K9 JOURNAL Tel. (416) 510-6789 Fax (416) 510-5138 www.canadianminingjournal.com

Are miners ready for the challenge of transparency?

Editor-in-Chief Alisha Hiyate 416-510-6742 ahiyate@canadianminingjournal.com Twitter: @Cdn_Mining_Jrnl

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News Editor Marilyn Scales CANADIAN MINING JOURNAL mscales@canadianminingjournal.com Production Manager Jessica Jubb jjubb@glacierbizinfo.com Art Director Barbara Burrows Advisory Board David Brown (Golder Associates) Michael Fox (Indigenous Community Engagement) Scott Hayne (Redpath Canada) Anthony Moreau (Iamgold) Gary Poxleitner (SRK) Manager of Product Distribution Jackie Dupuis 403-209-3507 jdupuis@jwnenergy.com Publisher & Sales Robert Seagraves 416-510-6891 rseagraves@canadianminingjournal.com Sales, Western Canada George Agelopoulos 416-510-5104 gagelopoulos@northernminer.com Toll Free Canada & U.S.A.: 1-888-502-3456 ext 2 or 43734 Circulation Toll Free Canada & U.S.A.: 1-800-387-2446 ext 3505 Group Publisher Anthony Vaccaro Established 1882

Canadian Mining Journal provides articles and information of practical use to those who work in the technical, administrative

and supervisory aspects of exploration, mining and processing in the Canadian mineral exploration and mining industry.

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MAY 2018

I

Alisha Hiyate

n EY’s latest report on the top 10 business risks facing mining and metals companies, released in December, three of the 10 are directly related to digitalization.

Digital effectiveness is listed as the No. 2 risk, cybersecurity No. 4, and disruption (for example, automation and its effect on jobs) No. 8.

However, while the other risks listed in the report don’t appear to be digital in nature, at least on the surface, there is no corner of mining that has been untouched by the digital revolution. It doesn’t take much a stretch to see a digital connection with risk No. 5, rising costs, or No. 7, the future of the workforce, for example. Moreover, environmental monitoring, worker and community safety, procurement – as well as productivity and efficiency – are all areas that can be vastly improved with digital solutions.

The No. 1 risk in EY’s report, which was based on a survey of 250 sector participants from around the world, is losing the licence to operate. Part of the way to address this risk is through adoption of digital technology and the transparency it creates naturally. That can include wider access to environmental data collected by companies to build public trust, and perhaps remote work solutions that would appeal to tech-savvy younger workers who currently don’t see mining as a career option.

Despite the potentially transformative value of digital technologies, a significant portion of mining sector management remains stuck in the past.

The EY report noted that a recent poll of over 600 mining and metals executives found that 37% of management surveyed had little or no knowledge of the digital landscape. Incredibly, that means that over a third of respondents are blind to the power of the new tools available to them to create a more sustainable and profitable business.

Perhaps the scariest thing for miners about digitalization is the aspect of transparency. At a recent panel discussion about digital technology, hosted

by Maestro Digital Mine at the Prospectors and Developers Association of Canada conference in Toronto, the conversation turned to the tendency of miners to “massage” numbers to make themselves look better (see page 43).

“The main goal is to try to get information directly from the machine and that’s good because now we don’t have any manipulation, we get clean crisp data from the machine,” said Ethan Hull, CEO of TECHrep Global and formerly Barrick Gold’s IT manager for North America. “But you’ve got to understand in a lot of organizations that’s a difficult challenge.”

The cold accuracy of numbers gleaned straight from the source will no doubt result in greater visibility as to what’s actually happening with equipment, people and supplies – providing an opportunity to fix things that aren’t working as expected.

But first, the culture of mining and its apparent aversion to transparency will need to be addressed.

CMJ CANADIAN MINING JOURNAL |

5

LAW

Promises, pledges and kind words: What 2019 budgets say to miners

By Sander Grieve

B

udget season is almost complete in Canada. As of April 1, the federal government, the three territories and six provinces have tabled their taxing and spending plans for 2019-20. For some governments it’s their first budget (Quebec), some have been doing this for years (Saskatchewan), and some are heading into an election year (federal).

Like the experience of those in office, although not always reflective of time in office, the product varies from concrete proposals specific to the industry, to tangential announcements with potential benefits. In some cases participants in the industry are left with only kind words and hope that Adam Smith’s invisible hand will flow through the efforts of industry to unlock benefits for Canadian communities.

So where does mining fit in Canada’s budgetary planning for the coming year?

In this budget cycle, in particular, several Canadian jurisdictions stand out for going beyond aspirational statements to taking concrete action to try to improve investment conditions. Stable, multi-year tax and incentive arrangements are proof that some governments understand the competition for investment.

Federal Budget 2019 received positive reviews from the Canadian mining community.

Highlights include:

The North Yukon – Committed to a new multiyear agreement with the Yukon Mining Alliance with increased funding, promising $1.2 million over three years.

• $700 million over 10 years in new funding for growth in Arctic and northern communities, including infrastructure resources; • $400 million over 11 years for transportation infrastructure in the three territories under the National Trade Corridors Fund; • a new Universal Broadband Fund to connect all Canadian homes and businesses to high speed internet access; • a further $18 million over three years to support planning by the Northwest Territories for its proposed Taltson 6 | CANADIAN

MINING JOURNAL

hydroelectricity expansion project; • the extension of the Mineral Exploration Tax Credit was confirmed for an additional five years; • investments in skills training and apprenticeship programs for skilled trades; and • a continued objective of reconciliation with Indigenous peoples.

Northwest Territories – Tabled invest-

ment of $1.7 million to encourage increased investment by the resource sector. This includes $1.2 million to increase knowledge of mineral potential in the Slave Lake Geological Province through new high-resolution airborne magnetic data and funding geophysical studies. The Mining Recorder’s Office will receive more support to help mining prospectors and developers with information on mineral rights, maps, and legislation and regulations.

Nunavut – The budget does not contain

any new taxes or tax increases.

Provinces

British Columbia – Committed to

spending $20 million over three years to establish an independent oversight unit to improve permitting and increase industry safety. The funding will: • hire up to 65 new employees at the Ministry of Energy, Mines and Petroleum Resources; • establish a new Mines Health, Safety and Enforcement Division; and • create a standing committee to review and update the Health, Safety and Reclamation Code for Mines.

The budget makes the mining flowthrough share tax credit and the mining exploration tax credit permanent (as previously announced in January 2019).

Saskatchewan – Announced the elimination of credits and deductions for its potash production tax. The government expects to collect an additional $117 million in tax revenue over the next year. www.canadianminingjournal.com

NO TIME IS A GOOD TIME FOR DOWNTIME. Manitoba – Announced a reduction in the PST to 7% from 8%, effective July 1.

Quebec – The costs associated with obtaining and maintaining sustainable development certification will be deductible as an allowance under the mining tax regime.

The Mining and Hydrocarbon Capital Fund will be renamed the Natural Resources and Energy Capital Fund and its scope will be extended.

New Brunswick – The budget does not contain any new taxes or tax increases.

Nova Scotia – Announced the Mineral

Resources Development Fund will reach $1.5 million this year, following a 2017 commitment to help attract investment and move projects closer to production.

What 2019’s budgets mean for mining companies Markets for commodities are global, and investments driven by calculations of risk and reward. Noble hopes for community benefits are good, but such hopes alone are unrealistic. In this budget cycle, in particular, several Canadian jurisdictions stand out for going beyond aspirational statements to taking concrete action to try to improve investment conditions. Stable, multi-year tax and incentive arrangements are proof that some governments understand the competition for investment.

For those governments that speak about aspirations for the industry, without support, one can only hope on behalf of citizens looking for growth, employment and prosperity that they adopt the physicians maxim and at least ‘do no harm.’

CMJ

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SANDER GRIEVE is a partner, head of mining, and co-head of the corporate department at Bennett Jones in Toronto.

MAY 2019

CANADIAN MINING JOURNAL |

7

CSR & MINING

How automation is altering the local benefits of mining

By Carolyn Burns & Jane Church

T

echnology has changed the way we do almost everything – from communicating with friends, family, and strangers, halfway around the world, to buying groceries, and moving from point A to point B. In many ways, our lives are better, easier, and more efficient.

Historically, the mining industry hasn’t been known for disruptive, innovative technology. Many mines use mineral processing techniques that are over 100 years old. But that is changing. The latest mining operations use new technologies to achieve efficiencies, improve safety, and limit environmental impacts, including greenhouse gas emissions. These include automated vehicles and drilling, fully electric mines, new processing techniques, the adoption of renewable energy technology, as well as data collection and management that fuels better decision making.

Host communities benefit from technological advancements as well. For example, mobile phones have dramatically changed day-to-day life for remote mining communities, allowing people to participate in formal banking systems, access increased education opportunities, and tap into global media sources. Automation and the use of new technologies can also support better engagement, impact management, and benefit sharing around mining activities. For example: w Social media tools like Facebook can improve transparency and information sharing both within the community and with mining companies, government, etc. w Information management systems can help companies, communities, governments, and civil society track and monitor commitments and management plans. These systems can also support participatory monitoring, where local representatives track and monitor changes in impacts and well-being. w Mobile phones and survey software like Ulula can support improved communication and engagement between companies and a diverse set of community members. For example, a company can send out notifications about upcoming activities or receive complaints via mobile technology. w 3-D printing and virtual reality tools can help stakeholders understand potential impacts through digital representations of mining activities. Using these types of tools, site plans can be altered and more easily discussed with local communities.

Whereas in the past, showing a community what a mine looks like involved travel and site visits, VR enables many more people within a community to have that experience at much

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For local communities, automation of the mining industry will disrupt the traditional benefits of the mining industry. lower cost and effort. w Data management tools used by organizations like Publish What You Pay and the Extractive Industries Transparency Initiative (EITI) help hold governments and companies accountable for royalties and tax payments, contributing to improved governance.

These technological improvements will help mining companies to achieve and maintain a social licence to operate and also support sustained positive outcomes for local communities.

However, changes in technology and increased automation also threaten to alter the economic opportunities that stem from direct employment and procurement. For most local communities, the primary benefits of mining are local jobs and procurement opportunities.

Claudia Mueller, Associate Director of the Global Mining Management MBA Program at the Schulich School of Business notes that for “local communities around mine sites, the impacts (of automation) will largely depend on the type of roles they represent in the industry. While we may see a short-term reduction in the number of unskilled workers needed, we will likely see this outpaced in the long run by the need for skilled, technology enabled employees. Unskilled labour needs will change and result in a relocation as we have seen over the last centuries with workers moving from agriculture to factories and eventually to service industries. In mining we have witnessed some of these effects already, with some truck drivers moving into autonomous truck supervision and relocating to fulfill their tasks. For skilled labour, it will become more important to be able to work with technology to improve productivity and efficiency.”

Technology and automation will fundamentally alter the way local communities benefit from the mining industry. The skills required to compete for jobs may become harder to acquire, creating hurdles for local communities to participate in direct employment opportunities. Employees at mine sites around the world, from Nevada, to Ghana, to Peru, are concerned about their ability to participate in increasingly technical job tasks that www.canadianminingjournal.com

they haven’t been trained for.

Changes in the workforce will also lead to changes in procurement opportunities. For some mine sites, automation will mean that a larger portion of the workforce will work remotely. As a result, there will be fewer workers ‘on site’ and less demand for the procurement activities where local communities typically have priority, such as catering, janitorial services, and transportation. Fewer on-site opportunities will also reduce the local spin-off benefits to local businesses, such as in food services, accommodation, transportation, and recreation, that stem from local population growth.

These technological disruptions to workforce and procurement demand present two important questions.

1. Without direct economic opportunities, will local communities be supportive of mining activities?

2. Do the benefits of technological advancements that improve transparency, communication, and accountability offset or replace the benefits of traditional economic opportunities?

Disruptions to local economic opportunities require all stakeholders to reimagine the benefits of mining.

Companies need to align long-term business strategies based on automation with their social performance strategies.

Some companies are refocusing their social investment strategy to support science, technology, engineering, and math educa-

tion, particularly at the elementary, high school and college levels. This can help develop and maintain local talent pools and support local participation in more automated, or technology-intensive jobs. Collaboration between companies, government and educational institutions is also an important element of ensuring local communities can participate in a changing economy.

Communities that have a clear vision for the future and have articulated how mining activities can support that vision will be better placed to both take advantage of technological opportunities and manage changes to their local economy. A clear community-led vision sets the roadmap for the future and helps different actors align their activities. The visioning process also facilitates a broader conversation about what are the benefits of mining for a community. As job and procurement opportunities decrease, they could be replaced by more direct financial benefits. Communities are increasingly receiving direct royalties that support diversified local economic development.

Furthermore, more communities are now taking equity stakes in projects, which also provide a consistent income stream that support a diversified economy. The future will require some re-imagining of the traditional relationships between host communities and mining companies, but with some creativity, this can lead to lower dependency on companies and strengthened and better diversified local economies – a win-win.

CMJ

CAROLYN BURNS is director of operations at NetPositive, a non-profit that works with diverse stakeholders to help local communities see sustained positive outcomes from mining.

JANE CHURCH is a co-founder and director of collaboration with NetPositive.

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COMMENTARY

Slow and steady wins the race: Leveraging AI as a business tool in mining

By Don Duval

A

rtificial Intelligence (AI) is a hot topic. Businesses in most industries are including it in their technology portfolios. The push is on.

The mining industry is no different. Mining companies are evaluating how they can use AI – namely advanced analytics, machine learning, and automation – to add long-term value to their operations. These tools hold the promise of improving processes and enhancing productivity while at the same time reducing costs and improving safety. Should mining companies go all-in on AI? If so, how?

Norcat has a unique perspective on mining technology and how companies should implement AI. We recently collaborated with Deloitte to produce an in-depth study of AI in mining entitled “Future of mining with AI: Building the first steps towards an insight-driven organization.” What’s more, our Norcat Underground Centre positions us as a one-stop shop for mining tech firms to develop, test, and demonstrate their technologies in an operating mine. So, when mining companies seek our opinion on how they should approach AI, our message, rooted in our observations, is: slow down!

True, mining is undergoing a technology and innovation transformation that has put the industry on an uncharted path.

That’s a good thing. Companies are excited to implement technologies that have the potential to increase competitiveness and drive shareholder value. However, as with all other industries that have undergone a technological transformation, existing procedures and processes need to be designed correctly and the right team with the right skillsets must be in place. It is only then that businesses can find an effective and tempered way to implement and use AI – otherwise, their value propositions and promises of new technologies will be a lost cause.

Assessing the landscape: Is the company ready for AI implementation?

While AI has the potential to offer the mining sector a wide range of benefits, companies, for a myriad of reasons, first need to grasp the importance of fully understanding the components and pathway to a successful integration. The opportunities for innovation are plentiful for those who plan accordingly, which is why we recommend taking the time to assess processes and personnel first.

Preparing for AI implementation requires companies to review their structures, expectations and options. Here’s how: 10 | CANADIAN

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Companies are excited to implement technologies that have potential to increase competitiveness and drive value. However, as with other industries that have undergone a technological transformation, existing procedures and processes need to be designed correctly and the right team with the right skillsets must be in place. w

Align people, processes, and technologies from the top down:

Companies should explore how they want to operate and determine if and how emerging technology can help achieve their desired outcomes. Prior to implementation, it’s important for leaders to understand the capacity and competence of their workforce and what skills and level of confidence they will need to both implement the technology and ensure sustained utilization and operational success. w

Build the case for AI and set expectations appropriately:

Companies need to ask fundamental questions about the purpose of AI, as well as its prerequisites and constraints, and ensure that there is clarity on the roadmap for AI’s implementation. Leaders should plan for the transition and account for periods where they may lack tangible results and face challenges in data quality. Implementation can often be more difficult, time consuming and costly than anticipated. w

If you must choose, choose wisely: There is no shortage of emerging AI tech firms with an exceptional array of solutions poised to transform the global mining industry. This “tech buffet” is overwhelming for any company looking to procure and integrate technology solutions. That said, leaders should not get caught up in the innovation excitement bandwagon, and instead should employ a thoughtful, methodical, and careful process to assess options on where to invest.

www.canadianminingjournal.com

The data issue: Is it ‘big’ or not?

It’s no secret that a vast array of quality data is a critical ingredient when introducing AI into any business. Without it, the ability to develop complex correlations and pattern recognition algorithms is limited. Mining companies already have a lot of data; however, unlocking it and validating its integrity are key barriers when it comes to recognizing the benefits of AI. As I have previously argued (Feb/Mar 2019 CMJ), the mining industry does not have data problem, it has a data utilization problem.

The industry revolution is quickly changing the narrative on gathering and effectively utilizing data to inform and integrate with AI solutions. Sensors are now reliably gathering data to the point where these systems are seen as commodities, but to win, companies need to take things to the next level by using the data more effectively and creatively than their competitors.

Playing the long game: Looking at tomorrow in the context of today For mining companies that are looking to win at the technology game, it’s careful and thoughtful planning that will get them the gold medal – not speedy implementation. The future of AI in mining rests on the ability of businesses to get the most value from the technology platforms they use today. For this reason, they must apply the brakes, pause, and connect the parts to maximize the whole. Then, they can decide how best to use AI in their operations and adapt as needed. AI is flourishing, and mining companies that set the stage for it will CMJ flourish too.

DON DUVAL is the CEO of Norcat. For more, follow Don on LinkedIn and Twitter (@don_duval).

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UNEARTHING TRENDS

Cybersecurity is more than just protection

By Yogen Appalraju

M

ining and metals companies are increasingly required to adopt to the digital world around them — investing heavily in tools to achieve better productivity and margin improvements. But as the digital transformation agenda forces organizations to embrace emerging technologies in an ever more connected world, it’s never been more challenging for miners to create a secure digital environment.

Miners have enormous amounts of valuable data, and they’re becoming more aware of how vital it is to protect it. The target area is continuously growing across physical assets, digital infrastructure and business processes, and the exposure is further impacted by increased connections with suppliers and customers. With more than half of global mining and metals companies having reported a significant cybersecurity incident in the last year, it’s not a surprise that cybersecurity has jumped up in the EY Top 10 business risks facing mining and metals in 2019-20 report for a second year in a row.

There are several concerns when it comes to cybersecurity.

Breaches of a company’s data, whether malicious or accidental, can have serious ramifications – from safety incidents at mine sites and physical damage to assets, to significant data breach investigation and remediation costs. But perhaps the most long-term consequence includes damage to the company’s reputation. And in today’s era, trust could just be your most valuable asset.

So, how can miners develop an effective cybersecurity strategy that positions them for growth while building and maintaining the trust of their stakeholders and the public?

It starts with understanding the business risks, critical assets and potential scenarios that could pose a cyber risk event. Once those are established, executives need to implement a robust and fit for purpose cybersecurity strategy that’s rooted in strong risk management principles. Integrating and embedding security in business processes and creating a more secure working environment can protect the organization from end-to-end, and give leadership peace of mind that will allow them to focus on growth.

To gain a better picture of where the organization is in its cybersecurity maturity, executives need to perform a baseline assessment of the organization’s cyber controls. This will help them identify cyber control gaps and understand where they need to invest to build a cybersecurity framework that will close

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Breaches of a company’s data, whether malicious or accidental, can have serious ramifications – from safety incidents at mine sites and physical damage to assets, to significant data breach investigation and remediation costs. those gaps and address key risk areas.

The cybersecurity transformation should promote three main principles across culture, governance and capabilities: w Expect excellence in security fundamentals: Be highly mature at security basics, practice good security hygiene and optimize the organization’s current information security capabilities. w Establish a strong governance program and a culture of accountability: This should include adequate progress and performance metrics, and the development of a security-savvy business culture where security practices are part of people’s everyday responsibilities. w Build a commitment to continuous improvement: Adapt to new requirements based on evolving threats and trends, regularly assess the organization’s security posture to resolve gaps, and instill the idea that cyber strategy is part of everyone’s job no matter what their specific role.

As the digital age opens new avenues for miners to grow and prosper, it’s never been more important to build and maintain trust across the value chain. A strong cybersecurity program and a commitment to keeping it up to date will go a long way to help mining and metals organizations thrive amid constant and persistent change.

CMJ YOGEN APPALRAJU is the national cybersecurity leader at EY Canada. He is based in Toronto.

Visit ey.com/miningrisks for more information.

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15

FAST NEWS • TRADE SHOW |

Updates from across the mining ecosytem

Bauma 2019 attracts 620,000 to Munich

B

auma 2019 has come and gone, attracting a record breaking 620,000 visitors from around the globe. The fair was the biggest in Bauma’s 65-year history, boasting 3,700 exhibitors from 63 countries.

With numbers such as that, Bauma qualifies as the world’s leading trade fair for mining and construction equipment.

More than 250,000 visitors came from countries outside Germany. In terms of visitors’ homelands, the 10 top countries were Austria, Italy, Switzerland, France, the Netherlands, Russia, Sweden, the Czech Republic, Poland and Great Britain. More than 5,000 visitors came from China alone.

Once again Bauma proved to be a success with not only visitors, but also exhibitors, who reported writing many orders. As one said, most visitors were specifically interested in buying, fuelling hope for continuing economic stability.

The next Bauma trade fair will be April 4-10, 2022.

CMJ

• TECHNOLOGY |

Komatsu and MineWare announce mining’s first integrated payload management system

K

omatsu and MineWare officially launched their first factory-fitted payload management system, Argus PLM, at Bauma 2019.

Argus PLM drives whole-of-mine improvement by increasing loading tool productivity and efficiency, which ultimately lowers cost per tonne. Argus PLM is an original equipment manufacturer (OEM) version of the MineWare Argus monitoring system designed exclusively for the Komatsu range of hydraulic excavators.

“Mining operators need world-class technology solutions to improve productivity, reduce costs and increase their global competitiveness,” said MineWare vice-president of marketing and sales, Roy Pater. “By uniting Komatsu and MineWare capabilities we’re offering 16 | CANADIAN

The Bauma trade fair is held every three years in Munich. CREDIT: MESSE MUNCHEN

MINING JOURNAL

customers the opportunity to have production improvement technology fully integrated with the machine, when ordering a new machine, to achieve these benefits.

Argus PLM integrates seamlessly with Komatsu’s Komtrax operating system and forms part of the on-board display. This delivers actionable production information, in real time, directly to the operator.

If the mine site has suitable connectivity, this information can be transmitted back to the site office, too. The system provides mining personnel on and off site with greater production visibility and performance benchmarking data to monitor, take action and understand how to improve the machine’s productivity.

Komatsu is the first OEM to deliver an in-cab payload management and

The Argus payload management system integrates with Komatsu’s Komtrax operating system.

CREDIT: MINEWARE/KOMATSU

guidance system, fully integrated with the excavator’s own operating system.

Argus PLM will be available on all new Komatsu PC7000-11 models. Komatsu plans to continue rolling out the Argus PLM across all other PC series excavator models, in time.

CMJ www.canadianminingjournal.com

• EQUIPMENT |

MacLean expands Owen Sound facility

M

acLean Engineering cut the ribbon on a 1,400-sq.-metre expansion of its Owen Sound manufacturing facility on April 8.

The expansion doubles assembly capacity from five bays to 10, with two 10-tonne cranes. A separate storage building for parts and an external loading ramp for rig deliveries is also part of the plan. The project was started in the last quarter of 2018 and completed in the first quarter of 2019, using local trades where possible.

Currently, 140 staff are employed at MacLean’s Owen Sound plant. The expansion will eventually add an additional 50 to 60 people, including welders, machinists, electricians, mechanics and administrative functions.

“We expect to double our production,” says Bob Wraight, vice-president of operations for MacLean Engineering.

“Access to local trades is a big part of our challenge at MacLean to keep up with the demand for specialized mining and municipal vehicles around the world,” added Ed Hawton, MacLean’s plant manager in Owen Sound. “This community offers up the workforce that we need for our current production and future growth, so we’re strong proponents of Owen Sound as a place to do business on a global scale.”

CMJ

• M&A |

Cementation acquires Terra Nova Technologies

C

ementation Americas has signed an agreement to acquire 100% of Terra Nova Technologies.

Established in 1997 in San Diego, Terra Nova subsequently added offices in Boise, Idaho, and Santiago, Chile that have successfully served their global clientele by delivering approximately 75 projects in more than 15 countries. With this diverse international footprint, Terra Nova has earned a solid reputation for providing quality design, supply and commissioning services for crushing and screening plants, overland conveyors, heap leach systems and mobile stacking systems for waste and dry tailings.

The arrangement is expected to close in May 2019.

Cementation Americas is a mining and minerals focused group of companies, delivering both underground and surface solutions for mines and downstream minerals processing facilities worldwide. CMJ

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CANADIAN MINING JOURNAL 17 2018-03-28 9:44 |AM

FAST NEWS • EXPANSION |

Updates from across the mining ecosytem

Commit Works opens Sudbury office

F

ast growing Australian mining software company Commit Works has announced its expansion into North American with a new office in Sudbury, Ont. The company, which is already delivering improved results at mining operations in Australia, Canada and Africa via its integrated frontline planning and Short Interval Control (SIC) systems, chose Sudbury for its vital role as a technology and innovation hub for the global mining industry. With more than a dozen mines within a 250 km radius, Sudbury is less than four hours from Toronto, which is home to some of largest mining companies’ headquarters.

With the international mining industry undergoing significant technological transformation, the company says that Sudbury is poised to become the centre of digital development in mining.

Commit Works CEO Paul Moynagh sees the expansion as an opportunity to create positive impacts abroad, as Commit Works looks to grow its team

• ELECTRIFICATION |

and recruit North American experts.

“We’re excited to share our journey with some of the brightest minds in technology and mining, and we welcome the opportunity to develop the economy in the area by working with the local com-

munity.” The company has made two new appointments in the region: Joseph Gladu joins Commit Works as vice-president for North America and Derek Polano steps into the role of adoption and results manager.

CMJ

Normet launches SmartDrive EV line

F

innish mining and tunnelling equipment manufacturer Normet launched its SmartDrive battery electric vehicle line of vehicles at the Bauma trade show in April.

Normet SmartDrive uses the latest long-life industrial grade lithium-ion battery technology with fast charging capability and electric motors specifically designed for harsh environments.

The batteries have a very long lifetime and a fast charging capability. With the onboard charging system, it needs only 2.5 hours to load the batteries from 0 to 80%. The machine can also be charged any time from any typical underground AC-socket in the matter of minutes.

The battery is split into modules: in the case of malfunction of a module, it will be isolated and the rest will continue operating, without forcing the machine 18 | CANADIAN

CREDIT: COMMIT WORKS

MINING JOURNAL

down somewhere in the mine or tunnel.

The emission-free, electric motors provide instant torque and safe operation in all underground situations like downhill, level or uphill tramming. The whole driveline is optimized and all lowefficiency parts like gearbox, dropbox and shafts of the machine are eliminated.

Most of the time, there is a recuperation

of power: during downhill driving the braking energy will be stored back into the batteries. The new generation of Normet mining and tunnelling equipment is more sustainable, less maintenance and service is needed and much more economical than other engine versions.

CMJ

Normet’s Spraymec 8100 mobile concrete sprayer. CREDIT: NORMET

www.canadianminingjournal.com

• ELECTRIC VEHICLES |

“We remember

Cat using R1700 as platform for first electric LHD

that our goal is to serve our

C

aterpillar has chosen to make the new R1700 underground mining loader its first battery electric LHD platform. The design of the new battery electric Cat R1700 XE will use advanced technology for lithium-ion batteries and fast, onboard charging to advance safety and promote high production.

The Cat R1700 was introduced in 2018 as a completely new design focused on major productivity improvements for the size class. These improvements primarily come from its efficient electro-hydraulic system, which saves fuel and provides greater loader forces, leading to significantly improved digging performance in the pile.

The R1700 XE will combine these new features with a lithium-ion battery operating and charging system developed by Caterpillar. The exclusive MEC 500 fast charging system allows rapid, onboard battery charging with little or no impact to the mine’s existing electrical infrastructure. The Cat charging system eliminates both the hazards of battery handling during recharging and the necessity to maintain change-out battery inventories.

Cat developed a proof of concept machine, converting a conventional diesel Cat LHD into a battery electric platform.

Compared with baseline numbers for a diesel powered R1300 LHD, the battery powered model exhibited more than a tenfold decrease in total energy costs; nearly eight times less heat generated; significantly less noise; immediate torque availability from the electric motors; reduced dust levels; and reduced tire wear.

CMJ

clients well.”

• AUTOMATION |

Providing full service mining solutions and innovation around the world for over 55 years.

Hard-Line partners with Bingham

H

ard-Line Solutions, a global leader in remote control technology, has announced Bingham Equipment Co. will be its newest distributor in Arizona.

With 11 locations in the state, Bingham Equipment will distribute Hard-Line’s LP401, MT52, and the RRC. The LP401 is a remote control operated low profile loader that can be used in a variety of restrictive areas where a normal man-operated machine cannot operate. The MT52 is a mini-track loader that can dig, trench, move materials and reach small, tight spots. And the RRC is a radio remote control that is very versatile, can operate any machine, make and model and is designed to be used in rugged and harsh environments.

Hard-Line is a global leader in mine automation, remote-control technology, and network backbone connectivity enabling both safety and enhanced productivity. Bingham Equipment serves construction, agricultural and compact equipment customers with rentals, parts, and services. CMJ MAY 2019

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CANADIAN MINING JOURNAL |

19

FEATURE

XPS

INNOVATIONS GET TO THE ROOT OF PLANT PROBLEMS Dominic Fragomeni talks XPS history, remote monitoring and the ‘ripple effects’ of sorting technology

XPS

Expert Process Solutions has a long history of solving complex metallurgical problems, designing and automating processes and supporting physical asset integrity programs and activities since its origins as the Falconbridge Technology Centre in 1952.

Since then, it’s gone through several transformations, starting with its move in 1984, from Thornhill, Ont., to Falconbridge, Ont., just outside of Sudbury. The acquisition of Falconbridge

by Xstrata in 2007 and then Glencore in 2013 have brought further changes.

The biggest was probably its transition in 2007 under Xstrata when the corporately funded and exclusively in-house technology centre was asked to convert to an autonomous business with a mandate of being self-supporting.

“When we first started out we knew we had the technical horsepower and we were quite efficient, but it became very clear that we needed to improve our competitiveness by reducing our costs while maintaining our high quality work,” says XPS

vice-president Dominic Fragomeni.

“We even have to compete on a quality and cost basis for internal (Xstrata and then Glencore) work so that made it even more important that we focus on this.”

Fragomeni says the team has done a good job of continuing to improve efficiency and costs, particularly over the last six or seven years during the last downturn.

“Of course, we’ve been able to pass these savings along to our clients and have become very competitive when you consider the very high end technical expertise we offer,” he says. “Metallurgical test work is often commoditized. We don’t believe in this.

Accurate, high-quality and complex process development and testing takes the right equipment and right people with highend skills. We have the right formula and our clients like it.”

XPS has increased efficiency by harnessing the entrepreneurial spirit of its people, Fragomeni said in a November interview in the XPS Technology Centre. The company looked at changes to work styles and training, equipment and equipment

The XPS Technology Centre in Falconbridge, Ont. CREDIT: XPS

20 | CANADIAN

MINING JOURNAL

www.canadianminingjournal.com

OUR WHEELHOUSE IS NICKEL, NICKEL-COBALT, COPPER, ZINC, LEAD, PLATINUM GROUP METALS, GOLD, LITHIUM AND A WHOLE SUITE OF OTHER COMMODITIES, EVEN ANTIMONY. – DOMINIC FRAGOMENI, XPS VICE-PRESIDENT

set up, automation and other solutions.

“I think the whole change management from a corporate technology centre to a business has been pretty successful.”

However, Fragomeni adds that XPS continues to evolve – as any stand-alone business would need to in order to grow and adjust to market conditions.

Fragomeni, a professional engineer and CIM Fellow who has been XPS vice-president since 2012, leads a team of 45 engineers and technicians at XPS. Last year, he was chosen as a

2018 CIM Distinguished Lecturer in recognition of his contributions to the Canadian minerals industry through his work in mineral processing. Before he became VP at XPS, he spent about nine years in technology and projects and 15 years in operations with Falconbridge and Noranda.

XPS’s business is currently around 50% external clients and 50% internal – a ratio Fragomeni is not necessarily looking to change.

“Glencore acquired Xstrata in 2013 and they’re a big organization... as we got to know each other better, we both saw more and more demands and need for our expertise. The work within Glencore is very rewarding.”

Fragomeni says the organization is looking to grow the business rather than changing the ratio of internal and external clients. “We want to add more value to our internal Glencore clients and still to do external work, these are both really important to us.”

External work broadens the expertise of XPS – for example the company is currently doing work on lithium – a mineral that Glencore doesn’t produce. At present, about 35% of XPS’s business is within the Glencore nickel business.

“Our wheelhouse is nickel, nickel-cobalt, copper, zinc, lead, platinum group metals, gold, lithium and a whole suite of other commodities, even antimony.”

While they are a part of a large, multinational company, Glencore has allowed and in fact encouraged XPS to operate pretty autonomously, Fragomeni says.

“The key thing with Glencore is they’re very value driven and I really like that. They’re also entrepreneurial, so we are well aligned.”

He adds: “With our twelve-year track record in this business model, I think Glencore has confidence that we can run a business. They definitely see the value of the technical expertise that we have, they are a very good company to work for.”

One such example of the high-end technical expertise is XPS’s use of QEMSCAN technology (Quantitative Evaluation of Minerals by Scanning Electron Microscopy). While other labs have the same or similar technology, Fragomeni says XPS uses it in a different way. The company uses QEMSCAN, an automated technique used for measurement and characterization of minerals at a microscopic level, including mineral type, mineral grain size distribution and liberation characteristics.

CONTINUED ON PAGE 22

KEY MOMENTS IN XPS HISTORY 1952 Falconbridge Metallurgical Laboratories founded in

Thornhill, Ont.

MAY 2019

1957 FML expanded to accommodate metallurgy groups

1968 Computer mainframe installation

1970 Two-storey expansion to accommodate new product development along with electron microprobe technology

1984 FML moves to Falconbridge, Ont. & becomes MTC (Metallurgical Technology Centre

1994 Engineering & construction starts on new $18M Falconbridge Technology Centre (FTC)

1997 Official opening of FTC

2007 XPS Expert Process Solutions is formed & FTC becomes XPS Centre

CANADIAN MINING JOURNAL |

21

FEATURE

It is used in combination with Electron Microprobe and now Laser Ablation to solve complex metallurgical problems.

“QEMSCAN and Microprobe and the mineralogical data they produce is hugely valuable when you’re designing a process or when you’re trying to optimize it,” Fragomeni explains.

“We’ve made use of this technology to shorten the time required to do the testing because you understand a lot more about the minerals and the ore variability. Generally, the combination of

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these disciplines, mineral processing and mineralogy is called process mineralogy. This makes the testing and process design less expensive, the process more relevant across the whole life of the mine because of better samples, and produces a more accurate scale-up which generates huge value when the operation is up and running.”

The importance of all of this is magnified when you consider that the capital cost to build new mining operations is in the billions, he adds.

“We also use the data generated from the QEMSCAN to model performance, so we can calculate what the recovery should be,” Fragomeni notes. “What should the yield be from that specific ore mineralogy? This helps focus the greenfield process design or the operating plant optimization to realize the full economic performance or ‘entitlement.’ We can quantify it. So if we’re not getting it, we know what we need to do to improve our process.”

Remote control loop monitoring XPS’s Process Control and Automation division has introduced several cutting-edge technologies and services in recent years, including remote control loop monitoring. Control loops are designed to automatically stabilize various plant processes, such as the flow of water, the flow of a chemical or the power to a piece of equipment, and most modern plants can contain hundreds of them.

“It’s like the cruise control in your car, you set the speed and the loop adjusts the throttle to maintain the speed. Most of our processes are more complex though.”

Starting in 2018, XPS set up a centralized control loop performance monitoring system at five Glencore sites. The system was set up to remotely monitor the control performance of 50-150 loops in real time, in each plant in Ontario, New Brunswick and New Caledonia, all from the XPS Technology Centre in Sudbury.

“This type of approach has been around for a while, but the challenge has always been the communication technology hadn’t quite evolved yet. Now it’s pretty robust so you can get clean data transmitted around the world,” Fragomeni says. “It was also the www.canadianminingjournal.com

Left to right: XPS QEMSCAN and Michelle Kelvin, mineralogist, characterizing high volume filter dusts; Technologist Lorraine Baldisera executing a laboratory scale batch flotation test; Tapping and sampling of XPS’s 350-kW pilot scale electric arc furnace. CREDIT: XPS

to identify opportunities for improvement.”

XPS is also leading a Canadian Mining Innovation Council (CMIC) project that will evaluate what tools operations use to collect data and what other value and models AI can extract from these databases.

“It’s early days, but we have several other major companies interested with support from CMIC, XPS, Corem, McGill University and Compute Ontario.”

fact the systems required on-site maintenance and support that is not always available due to other priorities at the operations.”

After a rigorous review process and then testing, Control Station’s PlantESP software was selected to collect and analyze the data in order to deliver the service to clients.

With the system, XPS has been able to identify performance issues that would have been otherwise difficult to detect, including poor performance in some valves, under and over-sized actuators, poor PID tuning, and in one case, an oscillation created by a loss of control in the previous stage of the plant process.

XPS is now offering the service to all clients, and applying the tool to hundreds of loops in mines, mills and smelters to focus maintenance of these under-performing loops.

“If one of five hundred loops in a processing plant is not operating properly, this will pick that up, the diagnostics will tell you there is a problem and what it is. It will very quickly focus on a solution,” Fragomeni explains. “We maintain the system and provide a KPI report to the plant. This helps the very busy plant people to focus on their regular activities. We also maintain the system and ensure its sustainability as plant personnel change.”

Currently, XPS relies on its own team’s expertise in close collaboration with the site to identify why a loop is not operating according to spec and perhaps re-tune it.

“The next thing is having the artificial intelligence (AI) engine basically looking at this doing the diagnostics and ultimately providing recommendations to improve performance,” Fragomeni says.

XPS is looking to AI to do more than just this and has selected an AI tool to improve performance in the Sudbury operations. It has selected the software for the task and Fragomeni says its first trials have already delivered some exciting results.

“AI is very well equipped to handle all the data coming from our processes. It’s bound MAY 2019

XPS PyroCam Another new product, the XPS PyroCam, was designed by XPS’s Extractive Metallurgy group for a client who wanted to see what was happening inside their very high-temperature nickel smelting furnace.

Temperatures in these furnaces can run up to 1,500° Celsius in order to produce high-grade molten metal and a barren, molten discard slag. Until now, these high operating temperatures made it impossible to see inside, which could be helpful if something isn’t working correctly, Fragomeni says. After all, at those temperatures, electronics tend to malfunction – and then just melt.

XPS solved the melting problem by using an existing, offthe-shelf video camera and still camera technology – coupled with a proprietary cooling chamber that allows the camera to operate inside the furnace.

The company designed a portable cooling chamber that does not use water, eliminating the risk of water entering the hot furnace. The PyroCam allows clients to see anything from the dynamics of the electrodes to where the feed is coming into the furnace. This could be very important in some furnace designs.

“The high-definition video, captured and controlled by a CONTINUED ON PAGE 61

CANADIAN MINING JOURNAL |

23

DIGITAL TECHNOLOGY

DUNDEE

TESTS NEW FRONTIERS FOR

drones Exyn machine can navigate autonomously underground for mapping and more

By D’Arcy Jenish

I

t can go to places in an underground mine where humans can’t go safely or should not go at all. It is the A3R – an advanced autonomous aerial robot, otherwise known as a drone – and Toronto-based Dundee Precious Metals is one of the first mining companies in the world to employ the technology in a sub-surface operation.

Dundee is currently incorporating the A3R into the operation of its Chelopech gold, copper and silver mine in Bulgaria.

Chelopech has been in production almost continuously since 1954 and has several thousand metres of underground workings, including many long abandoned tunnels, drifts and stopes.

“Typically you get eight guys with all the safety gear and breathing devices and they walk into these areas to inspect them.” says Theophile Yameogo, Dundee’s vice-president of digital innovation. “We’ve sent the drone into abandoned areas where no human has been for years. The drone went in and took pictures and returned. Now we know what’s there.”

That is just one of potentially many applications that will enhance safety, improve productivity and lower costs. But as an early adapter of a complex piece of technology, Dundee personnel are still learning how to use the drone and how to incorporate it into the daily operation of the mine. “It’s very new to us,” says Dundee vice-president and chief operating officer David Rae. “We’re very excited about it and there’s lots of opportunity.”

Philadelphia-based Exyn Technologies developed the A3R by 24 | CANADIAN

MINING JOURNAL

leveraging research conducted over several decades at the University of Pennsylvania’s GRASP laboratory. But the company’s own in-house team created the proprietary exynAI software that drives the A3R. Exyn CEO Nader Elm says it is that proprietary software which makes the robot an intelligent, autonomous and potentially powerful new tool in underground mining.

“Everything you see physically is entirely unremarkable and off the shelf,” says Elm. “You could buy all the components from Amazon.”

The robot is a four-armed device with helicopter-like rotors at the end of each arm and measures about one metre tip-to-tip.

It is powered by a lithium battery similar to those found in cell phones and the on-board computer contains a standard Intel I7 dual-core processor.

Yet, thanks to the exynAI software, the A3R can navigate through an underground mine without relying on GPS, electronic markers or beacons. Mine employees do not need to communicate with the robot while it is flying and the robot does not require a map or any other advance information about the environment in which it is flying.

Essentially, the A3R contains the onboard computing power to determine where it is in relation to its environment, where it is going and how to proceed from point A to point B and back again. It relies on a LiDAR flight critical sensor, which Elm describes as similar to a laser tape measure. The sensor shoots www.canadianminingjournal.com

Left and below: The Exyn A3R. CREDIT: EXYN Bottom: The Chelopech mine in Bulgaria.

CREDIT: DUNDEE PRECIOUS METALS

THE A3R CAN NAVIGATE THROUGH AN UNDERGROUND MINE WITHOUT RELYING ON GPS, ELECTRONIC MARKERS OR BEACONS.

out 300,000 points of light per second, allowing the A3R to determine its location while airborne and to build a map as it flies through the environment.

Exyn displayed the A3R at the March 2018 Prospectors and Developers Association of Canada convention, where it first came to the attention of Dundee’s digital innovation team.

Yameogo says he and his colleagues have worked closely with Exyn personnel over the past year to determine how the drone could be used underground.

The collaboration between the two companies included a test run of the drone at the Norcat Underground Centre in Sudbury and a team from Exyn spent two weeks testing the A3R at the Chelopech mine. Dundee personnel began operating the drone unaided in January, but the company is still working with Exyn on modifications to the software that will MAY 2019

add functionality and determine the final price.

“The software is still being developed because it wasn’t native to mining,” says Rae. “We told Exyn we’ll tell you what we want and we’ll get a solution everybody is happy with. Then we’ll figure out what it’ll cost.”

Currently, mine employees are using the drone primarily to survey stopes that are either mined out or still in production in order to meet the regulatory reporting requirements of the Bulgarian government. Dundee is allowed to extract up to 2.2 million tonnes of ore per year, almost four times the volumes attained in the best years of state ownership and communist rule.

Dundee is maximizing production through the creation of large stopes, which can be up to 60 metres in height, 20 metres wide and 40 metres or more long. Before acquiring the drone, CONTINUED ON PAGE 26

CANADIAN MINING JOURNAL |

25

DIGITAL TECHNOLOGY the company’s cavity monitoring system was slow, inefficient and technologically unsophisticated.

Employees known as surveyors relied on a LiDAR scanner that was mounted on a two-wheeled buggy. They pushed the buggy into a stope using a telescopic poles consisting of aluminum rods. “You don’t want to walk into a stope because it’s unsafe,” says Yameogo. “There’s rubble, unsupported walls and ceilings. Stuff could come down. That’s why it’s a human-denied environment.”

A survey of a single stope could take up to four hours to complete and the LiDAR generated a three-dimensional image containing some 50,000 data points. The A3R can complete a scan in two minutes and produce an image with up to 50 million data points, or 1,000 times more detail. “The density and clarity of the imaging is vastly superior,” says Yameogo. “It’s night and day.”

Surveyors transport the drone underground in the back of a pickup truck. They send commands via laptop or tablet to launch the drone and Elm points out that missions can be either planned or exploratory. In a planned mission, such as stope surveys, operators instruct the A3R to take off, ascend to a certain height and then fly straight ahead. Once airborne it flies autonomously and, thanks to the software embedded inside, it finds its own way in and out of a stope.

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The drone can also fly exploratory missions, in which operators launch it and it flies without any pre-determined parameters other than to fly a certain distance and return to the point of origin. “If it’s a drift, you can tell it to go 150 metres straight ahead and come back,” says Elm. “In a room and pillar mine it can go and explore galleries, go around pillars and map without any human intervention.”

Dundee has built a sophisticated and comprehensive underground Wi-Fi network at Chelopech, in part by employing technology developed by its own wholly-owned subsidiary Terrative Digital Solutions. The network allows mine employees at surface to observe the drone on their laptops as it is doing

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Left: State of the art technology at Chelopech.

CREDIT: DUNDEE PRECIOUS METALS

Right: A scan of a stope, generated by the Exyn A3R in real time.

CREDIT: EXYN

Far right: Underground at Chelopech.

CREDIT:DUNDEE PRECIOUS METALS

its aerial surveys.

“You can see the mapping on a tablet in real time, which is really compelling,” Elm says. “Folks who watched it are completely silenced by it.”

Rae adds that for three hours a day, while blasting is being done, nobody is working underground. But the drone can still be flying to conduct one mission or another. “We’re utilizing time we’re not currently using,” he says.

Apart from operational efficiency, the A3R can contribute

T:7”

to health and safety. “In an underground mine you have health and safety guys walking the mine at all times just to check things,” says Yameogo. “With the drone, they can do some of their work from an office at surface. Fewer people underground makes the mine safer.”

And Dundee is just beginning to tap the potential uses of the technology. In the future, Dundee may be able to mount sensors to detect or monitor air quality, among other things.

“We don’t know where it ends,” says Rae. “This is just the start.”

CMJ

Empowering those who move mountains.

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In addition to providing technologically advanced lubricants, Mobil Serv™ empowers you with data and insights that help you go the extra mile and make smarter decisions for your business and your customers. See what’s possible at mobil.ca/mining T:4.875”

© 2019 ExxonMobil. All trademarks used herein are trademarks or registered trademarks of Exxon Mobil Corporation or one of its subsidiaries. Imperial Oil, licensee.

MAY 2019

CANADIAN MINING JOURNAL |

Filename: 730594-4_CAN_HlfPg_Mining_Journal_v2.indd

27

DIGITAL TECHNOLOGY

HARNESSING THE POWER OF THE CROWD How miners can leverage crowdsourcing to solve their toughest challenges

By Holly Bridgwater

I

n management, Joy’s law is the principle that “no matter who you are, most of the smartest people work for someone else,” attributed to Sun Microsystems co-founder Bill Joy. Joy was prompted to state this observation through his dislike of Bill Gates’ view of “Microsoft as an IQ monopolist.” He argued that, instead, “It’s better to create an ecology that gets all the world’s smartest people toiling in your garden for your goals.”

Historically, the mining industry has been very closed with their business and operational challenges and associated data.

28 | CANADIAN

MINING JOURNAL

Mining companies have therefore set hard organizational borders that rely on scouting and hiring smart tech talent, upskilling existing employees internally, or working with known established suppliers.

The alternative to these hard organizational borders is softer, permeable borders that can take advantage of external talent, skills and opportunities.

For the uninitiated, crowdsourcing seeks to harness the collective intelligence of people around the globe to address tough challenges. It is the process by which a problem and the accompanying

data is made available digitally to geographically distributed third parties, who then compete to deliver the best solution.

Crowdsourcing and open innovation are starting to be recognized within the mining industry as effective ways to quickly validate concepts at low risk, solve complex challenges, find new innovative suppliers, and automate work.

Resources sector open innovation platform Unearthed is an advocate for open data initiatives, and we are extremely proud of the work being delivered in partnership with industry leaders. www.canadianminingjournal.com

This article highlights some of these mining organizations, who can demonstrate the benefits of leveraging the diverse skill sets and technological solutions of external innovators to address their toughest operational challenges.

Unearthing buried treasure Finding new exploration targets presents a key resources sector challenge that fits this open collaboration framework. Back in 2000, Goldcorp CEO Rob McEwen released the exploration data from the company’s Red Lake project to the public in a $1-million incentivized competition. This helped McEwen and his team turn the company from a struggling junior to a leading gold miner, with an additional $6 billion worth of gold idenMAY 2019

Left: At Unearthed’s Vancouver event in 2017; Top: Team Koan Designs and BCG Engineering at Unearthed Toronto in 2017; Above: Data scientists and geologists join forces to tackle the Explorer Challenge.

CREDIT: UNEARTHED

tified by the competition.

Considering this success, it’s surprising that more industry players haven’t followed suit and opened up their exploration data. After the Goldcorp challenge, it wasn’t until 2015 that Integra Gold held its own Goldrush challenge.

More recently, OZ Minerals launched its Explorer Challenge, releasing over two terabytes of private data from its Mount Woods project and offering a A$1-million prize pool. The company’s hope is that a global community of data scientists

and geologists can help it find the next economic deposit on its land holdings.

As we see a shift towards the use of open data and machine learning, companies such as OZ Minerals, Integra and Goldcorp are leading the market and taking advantage of skills and new approaches by making their challenges and data publicly available, as well as employing a variety of data science approaches internally.

CONTINUED ON PAGE 30

CANADIAN MINING JOURNAL |

29

DIGITAL TECHNOLOGY Right: Geologists at work on the Explorer Challenge.

Bottom: Members of the Newcrest Mining and Three Springs Technology teams at Unearthed Perth 2018.

CREDIT: UNEARTHED

Engaging local innovation communities Over the last few years, we have seen a large increase in the number of Canadian operators willing to share data and engage with their local innovation communities, in Canada and internationally. Teck Resources, SSR Mining, Barrick Gold, McEwen Mining, Agnico Eagle Mines and industry consultants Hatch have all participated in weekend-long, in person open innovation events called hackathons. The hackathons not only equip mining company staff with new skills and ways of thinking, they also bring new skills and talent into the industry, which can help build technology businesses.

Koan Designs took part in Barrick’s first Unearthed hackathon in Toronto

in 2017. Since then, Koan has become Koan Analytics, and in 2018, the company combined its expertise in applied mathematics, machine learning and computer graphics along with Barrick’s geology and mining expertise to develop a data aggregation, predictive analytics and visualization solution designed to capitalize on the vast quantity of static and unstructured data.

“We have been able to develop a

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30 | CANADIAN

MINING JOURNAL

bespoke resource sector data aggregation and analytics solution, because we had access to industry experts who were willing to look outside traditional industry solutions and partner-up Koan Analytics’ complementary skillsets,” said Rob Wood, a partner and business development lead with the company.

Award-winning Virtual Reality and Mixed Reality (VR/MR) studio LlamaZOO participated at Unearthed Vancouver to showcase their innovative application of virtual reality technology for the mining industry. The team came away with second place overall for its solution to Teck Resources’ Haul Truck Optimization challenge.

“There were two sides to the solution: the dispatcher view, which allows the dispatcher to see a 10,000-foot view of the mine, the trucks and all their different statuses. The other side is communicating that to the operator,” said LlamaZOO Co-founder Kevin Oke. “In the case of the prototype, we built a 3-D cockpit.

You can fly the camera into the cockpit and see what the driver would see, and an approximation of what it would look like if they had augmented graphics overlayed onto their windshield.”

“I think it’s fair to say that our involvement with Unearthed was the springwww.canadianminingjournal.com

A strategy to open operational challenges to the crowd Newcrest Mining has positioned itself as the first mining company to employ a global crowdsourcing strategy. This position is providing them a demonstrated competitive advantage by validating ideas, automating workflows and solving complex problems faster.

Newcrest has developed this position by building a pipeline of operational challenges, which they have shared openly with innovators around the world via the Newcrest Crowd. Newcrest provides information, data and tools that clearly articulate and quantify the problems, enabling innovators from different backgrounds to quickly present solutions back to the business.

Hydrosaver, Newcrest’s first online challenge, was released to the public in February 2018, to predict the density of a tailings underflow inefficiency at Cadia mine (and, therefore, water content), three hours ahead of time. Participation was truly global with solutions received from countries including Canada, India, the United States, Argentina, China and South Africa. 150 highly skilled individuals formed teams that submitted over 750 predictive models.

The winning team, Three Springs Technology, is a tech startup specializing in Artificial Intelligence solutions, and Hydrosaver was their first foray into the mining sector. In addition to A$6,000 in prize money, Three Springs Technology signed a contract with Newcrest to implement its solution in production and integrate it with the miner’s technology stack.

“We have finalized the production implementation, and we anticipate increasing average underflow density by 0.5 to 1%,” said Three Springs Technology Founder Sherief Khorshid.

Since Hydrosaver, Newcrest has run four additional crowdsourcing challenges via the Newcrest Crowd ranging from extracting data from exploration photography, to engineering solutions for crushing circuits and safe plant startup processes.

Newcrest is already seeing a positive financial impact to their bottom line from crowdsourced solutions and partnering.

MAY 2019

Are you missing out?

Several industry leaders are building competitive advantage by being open with their business challenges and data, allowing them to access a global network of diverse skills and technologies to accelerate their innovation initiatives in many

areas of the mining value chain.

How could your organization benefit from external talent, skills and opportunities? As Joy’s Law argues – if you rely solely on your own employees, you will never solve all your most pressing challenges.

CMJ

Holly Bridgwater is Crowdsourcing Lead at Unearthed, and an advocate for industry adoption of open innovation and crowdsourcing initiatives. Holly is currently working with OZ Minerals to deliver the Explorer Challenge, an online competition that invites innovators to test the limits of geology and data science to find new ways to explore. For more information, visit: https://unearthed. solutions/u/competitions/explorer-challenge.

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board to take our mining business international,” said Oke.

31

ADVERTORIAL

BAIE-JAMES, QUEBEC. Hecla’s Casa Berardi gold mine has implemented automated underground truck haulage on a dedicated drift, the latest and largest step in the operation’s automation journey and one expected to save several million dollars.

T

en months ago, Sonny Melancon had never set foot on a mine site. He ran the garage at a local automotive service shop in La Sarre, 100 kilometres south of Hecla’s Casa Berardi gold mine in northwestern Quebec.

In December 2017, Melancon became one of the first remote operators of Casa Berardi’s new automated haul truck.

“I was looking for a shift in my career,” he says. “I was eager for something new. Stars aligned, and I’m here. I had no experience at all with mining or automation.”

The mine itself has rapidly gained automation experience since embarking on an incremental journey in 2015, soon after Alain Grenier was appointed vice president and general manager.

“The basic goal of the automation is really to give us all the tools to face the financial cycle,” Grenier says. “For us, the main goal, it’s making sure we have a long-life asset. One of the best things to help us on that goal is clearly automation.”

Grenier, general superintendent Ronald Durham and other mine management started planning projects to solve bottlenecks and increase throughput. The first step was automating the mine’s hoisting system to boost capacity.

“At that time we were only an underground mine, so bringing up ore to surface was our priority,” Durham says. “Being able to hoist between shifts while ventilating blast gases was a relatively small success, but we did it ourselves and it inspired us.”

The mine then eliminated another bottleneck by automating its loading facilities, followed by enabling tele-remote operation of its hydraulic rock breakers from surface.

“When you have three successes, it’s easier to sell a fourth one,” Grenier says.

Looking to downsize its underground truck fleet next, Casa Berardi revisited its ore pass network.

“We looked at many scenarios for transporting ore more efficiently, but most of them were too costly,” Durham says.

32 | CANADIAN MINING JOURNAL

Casa Berardi ultimately studied five different scenarios for improving truck haulage. Driverless trucking appealed to mine management, who toured Barrick’s Williams mine in Ontario to see Sandvik automated trucks in action.

“They told us it was a mistake having a connection with the drift,” Grenier says. “They suggested we have no direct connection with the ramp.”

Casa Berardi’s 985 automated drift project was soon born.

The mine developed a $15 million dedicated drift and ore passes and waste passes fitted with automatically controlled chutes, and built a new mine operations control centre on surface for the remote operator’s station.

“It’s a large, large capital expenditure to dedicate a drift, chute, the dump,” Grenier says.

Adds Durham: “We do a lot of calculation to be able to see a payback on these projects. For the material we need to transport every year, we saw that the automated trucks from Sandvik would be the best option for us within two years, and they just keep being better and better for the rest of life of mine. It’s cashflow positive after two years.”

The mine appointed its electrical engineer Dave Descôteaux as project manager, a crucial step in ensuring implementation occurred on time and within budget, according to Grenier.

“It was really challenging but it was really exciting, too,” Descôteaux says. “One of the biggest challenges that we faced was the drift dimension. The drift we developed was a little too tight for the truck in some places, so we’ve had to take some slashes to enlarge the drift, including in places where optical fibre was already installed.”

Even when operating the automated truck at reduced capacity due to drift constraints, Casa Berardi has already improved trucking productivity by 20 percent.

“It’s met all our KPIs we set for it,” Durham says.

The truck autonomously navigates a 1.5-kilometre route 1,000 www.canadianminingjournal.com

TEXT: ERIC GOURLEY/PHOTO: ADAM LACH

metres below surface, making trips between chutes and dump points up to seven minutes faster than Casa Berardi expected.

“When we did the theoretical calculation, we were estimating it at around 18 minutes for a cycle, and with the automated truck, we’re able to go down to 11 minutes,” Durham says.

The integrated AutoMine system from Sandvik uses wireless communication, onboard cameras and a navigation system to monitor and control the unmanned truck.

At the start of a shift, maintenance personnel underground access the automated level, start the truck and ‘automate the zone’ – closing safety barriers that isolate the haulage route from personnel or other equipment – before informing operators like Melancon sitting in the surface control room that it’s safe to start moving muck.

“After the pre-op is made on the Sandvik truck and the area is secured, we can run the truck till the operator gets his ride to go back home,” Grenier says.

From the comfort of the purpose-built control room, Melancon operates remotes for loading chutes and rock breakers. Rarely has he had to intervene with the automated truck.

“Everything is intuitive,” he says. “Sandvik held a training here to help us learn the system and within a week I was already comfortable with it. We have a series of buttons that we can press, and everything is already set up in the buttons, so when you have a command to send to the truck, you just press a button. It’s a very user-friendly system.”

Fellow operator Steve Bouchard says the AutoMine system’s self diagnostics save time if something does go wrong.

“In the rare case the truck has a problem, I can diagnose it and inform the mechanic,” Bouchard says. “He doesn’t need to diagnose it himself, so we’re more productive. The truck will basically tell you what to do to get it back up working.”

For Melancon, being able to operate from surface is paramount.

“The safety aspect is very important for me because I’m a father of four young children,” he says.

Casa Berardi has reduced its LTIFR by 50 percent since the start of its automation journey in 2015.

“Our employees being able to go home safely to their families after every shift, that’s most important at Casa Berardi,” Grenier says.

“The automaton of the hoist, the loading facilities, rock breaking facilities, and now with the trucks, it’s not the only answer, but it helps to decrease our health and safety frequencies,” Grenier said.

MAY 2019

“We handle a large volume of ore without any injuries. We are pretty proud of the result.”

Automated haulage has already enabled Casa Berardi to reduce its conventional truck fleet, and an even greater reduction forthcoming figures to add more value to the mine’s bottom line. When the first Sandvik TH540 started operating autonomously in December 2017, the mine removed two trucks from an upper level. A second identical automated Sandvik TH540 is scheduled for delivery in November 2018, and within two years Grenier expects to be able to reduce the total fleet from what was once 14 trucks above the haulage drift down to just seven.

“We forecast to reopen the East Mine by 2020, and we think we don’t have to buy units for the upper part of the mine,” Grenier says. “We could migrate old units from West to East. It could be really interesting in terms of manpower, fuel consumption, mechanical components. On a five-year project, it’s close to $1.1 million a year of savings.”

During its first eight months of operation, the first automated Sandvik TH540 has delivered 20 percent higher availability at 30 percent lower maintenance costs than the average manned truck in the mine’s fleet.

“When we sold the project to the board we were looking for $3.05 a tonne, just for maintenance to run the equipment,” Grenier says.

“We are currently at $2.69, and we think we could improve that with the second unit and a larger volume of ore and waste handling. In terms of productivity, depending on the location of the chute, it’s from 39 to 50 percent more efficient than what we expected. We are more than happy with the Sandvik truck up to now.”

Grenier admits that after a 33-year career spanning 13 mine sites, the automated drift project required a mindset shift for himself and the mine’s senior leadership.

“Normally we adapt the development to the orebody and the equipment to the development for the orebody,” he says. “Now we have to do the inverse. You have 20, 25, 30 years of experience behind you with your paradigm. At the moment you have in your mind you want to go with automation in your operation, you have to accept to change your mind. It’s a unique opportunity to extend your mine life, extend careers, and have a better health and safety result.”

Originally published in Solid Ground #2-2018 and on Solid Ground online.

CANADIAN MINING JOURNAL

| 33

TECHNOLOGY

SGS TAKES THE LAB INTO THE FIELD FOR FAST RESULTS

Technology promises assays in days, not weeks

By Marilyn Scales

W

e live in an instant world.

Want to check the weather? There’s an app for that that will bring it to your smartphone in milliseconds.

Want information? Use your browser to find it on the internet.

Want to talk to someone? Give the smartphone another workout. Or satellite phone if you are in a far-off corner of the world.

Want to share data about a project you are working on? Back to the internet, and put it on the cloud where colleagues have access.

Why should an exploration crew in remote corners of Canada be any less connected?

Now they can benefit from instant results from their activities in the field. No more waiting weeks for information about samples that have been sent off to a far-away commercial laboratory.

Thanks to SGS SA and its Field Analytical Services and Testing (FAST) solution, a team in the Canadian field will have access to near real-time results for faster decision making.

FAST brings portable instrumentation and machine learning

XPS uses Minalyze’s Minalyzer core scanner, as well as other instruments, for its FAST near real-time analysis in the field. CREDIT: SGS

34 | CANADIAN

MINING JOURNAL

www.canadianminingjournal.com

FAST PROVIDES HIGH-DENSITY DATA VERY QUICKLY, ALLOWING USERS IN ACTIVE DRILL PROGRAMS TO MAKE DECISIONS REGARDING TARGETS DURING THE DRILL MONTHS INSTEAD OF WAITING FOR ASSAY RESULTS.

into the field and provides data within 24 to 48 hours. The service is also available in Australia.

Applications for FAST are not limited to exploration.

SGS says it can be used during exploration, at the mine site, in mineral processing, at smelters or refineries, and every stage in between.

SGS introduced its FAST capabilities at this year’s Prospectors and Developers Association of Canada in March. It attracted 15 to 30 interested people to each of its five demonstrations during the meeting. And people independently popped in and out, some for a second look.

“Turnaround time and high volume analysis continue to be drivers for solutions such as FAST,” SGS global co-ordinator of marketing, minerals Peggy Bell told CMJ in response to emailed questions. “People are excited that we can offer 24- to 48-hour turnaround time with quality, calibrated data.

“The high-resolution images for Minalyze and the Minalogger software were also generating quite a bit of interest,” she added.

Why it works SGS takes suitable mineralogical and geochemical instruments to a client’s site. These might be FTIR, pXRF or EDXRF core scanner, depending on requirements. They can be paired with a mobile sample preparation unit (MSPU) to ensure controlled preparation of the samples. The samples are then analyzed with the specified instruments using site specific, custom calibration protocols. Then the results are delivered to the client.

FAST cuts a four to 12-week turnaround into one or two days.

Using non-destructive XRF scanning of drill core returns the best value when it is performed on freshly drilled core and the mapped results are available to field geologists to generate consistent core

CONTINUED ON PAGE 36

MAY 2019

Above: SGS at the PDAC convention in March.

Below: A high-res image from Minalogger, the software that’s used with the EDXRF core scanner. CREDIT: SGS

A mobile sample preparation unit. CREDIT: SGS MINERALS CANADIAN MINING JOURNAL |

35

TECHNOLOGY

FTIR analysis (above) and portable XRF (pXRF) machines (at right), are used to analyze prepared samples in the field. CREDIT: SGS

Fast provides high-density data very quickly, allowing users in active drill programs to make decisions regarding targets during the drill months. logs and optimize sampling intervals and requirements. Using pXRF and FTIR analyses are usually performed on prepared samples using the MSPU. “The advantage is that the client is receiving our laboratory techniques in the field, and that these analyses are provided under the same stringent calibration and QA/QC protocols that we use in our commercial labs,” said Bell.

“The data is consistent and fit-for-purpose, allowing clients to significantly cut down on decision-making time, saving money in the process.”

She added that as far as SGS knows, it is the first large laboratory group to offer such a comprehensive field-based service integrated with lab style calibration and QC protocols.

Clients using FAST also benefit from SGS’s machine learning capabilities. FAST provides high-density data very quickly, 36 | CANADIAN

MINING JOURNAL

allowing users in active drill programs to make decisions regarding targets during the drill months instead of waiting for assay results. This allows for continuous updating of drill programs rather than waiting for the next drill season. Both targeting and spending are optimized.

Bell added: “There is the potential to reduce the overall project development cycle for those companies who have the flexibility to embrace this change in workflow.”

CMJ www.canadianminingjournal.com

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CYBERSECURITY

A FOUNDATION FOR KNOWING YOUR CYBER VULNERABILITIES

Four steps miners can take to establish an OT cybersecurity solution

T

he digital revolution is happening.

Advanced technologies that blend hardware and software with Big Data – a combination of automation, Wi-Fi sensor technologies, cloud-based systems and data analytics – have the potential to profoundly change the face of mining forever.

These technologies show good promise to safeguard health and safety, improve collaboration, increase operational efficiency and productivity, and strengthen resilience while ensuring

38 | CANADIAN

MINING JOURNAL

long-term sustainability and profitability. But as digital systems and connected devices become more prevalent, mining companies need to remain diligent in keeping cybersecurity top of mind.

The number, frequency and sophistication of cyber-attacks continue to increase across all industries as hostile actors seek to inflict harm – disrupting operations, damaging equipment and the environment, and causing injury to personnel.

No industry is immune to the challenge, and today’s technologically advanced

mining operations are at risk.

Overall, the mining industry is being proactive when it comes to establishing cybersecurity programs. Ensuring security is a highly complex endeavour for any industry, but perhaps more so for mining, which involves large-scale, geographically dispersed locations with thousands of assets.

‘Security by obscurity’ no longer Like other operational process control sectors – such as manufacturing, pharwww.canadianminingjournal.com

Photo: matejmo, iStockimages.com

By Dennis Gibson and Nathan Ives

Photo: matejmo, iStockimages.com

AS IT AND OT SYSTEMS BECOME INCREASINGLY INTEGRATED AND MARCH ALONG THE PATH TO CONVERGENCE, GONE ARE THE DAYS OF ‘SECURITY

BY OBSCURITY’ – THE BELIEF THAT SYSTEMS CAN BE SECURE THROUGH SECRECY, OR BY SIMPLY BEING UNKNOWN.

maceuticals and energy, water and oil and gas utilities – mining companies rely on information technology (IT) systems that interface with operational technology (OT) systems. IT systems are used to process data, including software, hardware, communications technologies and related services, while OT systems consist of the hardware and software used to monitor and/or control the devices used in enterprise operations.

As IT and OT systems become increasingly integrated and march along the MAY 2019

path to convergence, gone are the days of “security by obscurity” – the belief that systems can be secure through secrecy, or by simply being unknown. Considering the growing prevalence of technology in mining, operators need to take a more deliberate approach to protect their operational, process control, health, safety and environmental data centre security, supervisory control and data acquisition (SCADA), programmable logic controllers (PLCs) and other industrial control system devices and equipment.

The cybersecurity asset data challenge Black & Veatch has worked with several major mining companies to support assessments of their OT cybersecurity practices and develop OT cybersecurity improvement roadmaps. This experience revealed that most mining companies do not formally document or track the cyber assets they have, leading to a gap in cybersecurity-related asset data. This information is necessary to implement an effective security program – fundamen-

CONTINUED ON PAGE 40

CANADIAN MINING JOURNAL |

39

CYBERSECURITY tally speaking, you can’t protect what you don’t know you have.

Four steps to an OT cybersecurity solution An important first step for any mining company working to secure its digital assets is to establish an authoritative OT cybersecurity asset data management solution to formally control and maintain all cybersecurity-related data. This can be accomplished by following these four steps: 1. Define and identify critical mining assets and their associated critical OT digital systems.

2. Establish an OT asset data system of record (SOR).

3. Identify and eliminate OT cybersecurity asset data gaps.

4. Establish cybersecurity asset data governance policies, maintenance procedures and change management protocols.

1

Define and identify critical mining assets and OT digital systems

When developing a cybersecurity program business case, it is necessary to balance costs with enhanced security risk reduction. To do this, mining companies should identify those assets that are both vulnerable to cyber-attack and critical to maintaining operational safety and reliability. Because there are few to no mining-specific regulations around cybersecurity, Black & Veatch defines these assets as critical mining assets and their associated critical OT digital systems.

• Critical mining assets are those mechanical and/or electrical systems/ assets used to perform real-time monitor, command and/or control (via human or electro-mechanical means) of one or more of the following operational mining functions: commod40 | CANADIAN

MINING JOURNAL

ity processing, drill, blast, load, haul, crush, convey, mill, leaching, etc.

• Associated critical OT digital systems are those cyber systems used to monitor or provide command and/or control of the real-time critical mining assets.

2

Establish an OT asset data system of record (SOR)

The OT Asset Data SOR serves as a formally controlled and maintained asset data repository for all critical mining assets and associated critical digital systems.

The SOR should contain up-to-date information documenting key asset attributes that identify, physically locate, characterize and associate an entity’s critical mining assets and associated critical digital systems; including, at a minimum, the following asset-level data attributes: • Critical mining assets such as drill platforms, blast systems, loaders, haul trucks, crushers and conveyors: physical location, make, model, serial number, asset type, functional parameters, asset owner, etc.

• Critical OT digital assets such as system applications, databases, computers and other devices: physical location, make, model, serial number, asset type, host ID/name, IP address, serial connectivity, asset owner, key hosted applications, etc.

Applicable OT system/component configuration information is also required to support next step security configuration management and monitoring requirements.

Many mining companies will find that the most convenient and available SOR repository for cybersecurity-related asset data is their existing Enterprise Asset Management (EAM) system. These systems already contain critical mining asset and related physical attribute data, reducing the complexity and cost of adding cyber-related attributes to a separate repository.

But mining companies should note that the sensitive nature of the data contained within the SOR means that caution must be taken when establishing

Change management will be critical to providing information, rationale and guidance to help employees understand the purpose of the new OT cybersecurity strategy as well as how to apply these technical, operational and procedural changes.

Effective execution requires proactive communication, co-ordination, scheduling and training.

user access and change controls. Restricting access should be commensurate with the security and controls of the physical and OT assets for which the data is associated.

3

Identify and eliminate OT cybersecurity asset data gaps

Once the critical mining assets and associated critical OT digital systems have been defined, the next step is to identify the actual assets and systems and to inventory their cybersecurity data. This is an important step that will help operators discover information gaps related to the completeness, accuracy and location of data.

To do this, mining companies should develop a process for collecting missing or inaccurate cybersecurity-related asset data. This process should specify data collection and storage methods as well as provide for the transfer of existing data from outside systems to the appropriate SOR. www.canadianminingjournal.com

4

Establish cybersecurity asset data governance, policies, maintenance procedures, and change management protocols

Policies and procedures that govern when and where the technology may be delivered and applied, who may use it, and the data to be collected and maintained, will be necessary to establish a complete OT cybersecurity program. Operators should review existing IT security policies and procedures, conduct an OT technologies gap analysis, and update current governance documents to either include OT or create analogous OT-specific governance policies and procedures. A subset of these policies and procedures should include Disaster Recovery and Incident Response plans that should also be reviewed and updated to cover both OT and IT. Change management will also be critical to providing information, rationale and guidance to help employees understand the purpose of the new OT cybersecurity strategy as well as how to apply these technical, operational and procedural changes. Effective execution requires proactive communication, co-ordination, scheduling and training.

All parties will need to understand the changes when they will take effect, and if they require any new instructions, training, devices, tools, or credentials to successfully perform their assigned tasks.

will establish the foundational elements necessary for the organization’s overarchin g security program; ensuring safe, secure, reliable and sustainable operations for the long-term.

CMJ Dennis Gibson is the Chief Technical Officer of Black & Veatch Mining, where he is responsible for integrating the company’s wide range of technical skills in infrastructure development into the mining sector. He has 40 years’ experience

Conclusion Advanced systems will play a larger role as mining companies increasingly turn to technology to drive operational improvements. It’s already happening – according to a 2015 IDC Energy Insights global survey, 69% of mining companies are investigating remote operation and monitoring centres, 56% are looking at new mining methods, 29% are eying robotics and 27% are considering unmanned drones.

With these numbers in mind, it’s not a stretch to expect to see advanced technologies become more prevalent at mining sites in the not too distant future, making it imperative that mining companies work to establish effective cybersecurity measures today. Implementing an OT cybersecurity asset data solution now

Nathan Ives is Managing Director, Business and Technology Architecture, Black & Veatch Management Consulting. He has 26 years of power, water, oil and gas and mining industry experience specializing in asset management, risk management, facility operations, cybersecurity and technology implementation.

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MAY 2019

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CANADIAN MINING JOURNAL |

41

PRESENTS

Canada’s Premier Mining Industry Showcase in UK HEADLINE SPEAKERS

Presented by

PRESENTS

Mark Bristow President & CEO Barrick

And co-hosted by The High Commission of Canada in the UK

David Harquail CEO Franco-Nevada Chairman World Gold Council

Steve Letwin President & CEO IAMGOLD

GOLD SPONSOR

PROVINCE & TERRITORY PARTNERS

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PRESENTING SPONSORS

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May 22, 2019 Canada House Trafalgar Square London, UK

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Peter Marrone Executive Chairman Yamana Gold

Eira Thomas President & CEO Lucara Diamond Corp

DIGITAL TECHNOLOGY

THE CHALLENGES AND TRIUMPHS OF

[digitalization]

PDAC panel dishes on mining sector’s digital journey The panel on digital mining at PDAC, hosted by Maestro Digital Mine and moderated

by Bob McDonald, host of CBC Radio’s Quirks and Quarks. COURTESY: MAESTRO DIGITAL MINE

MAY 2019

By Alisha Hiyate

T

he ongoing digitalization of mining is presenting both exciting results and plenty of challenges. A panel of experts at this year’s Prospectors and Developers Association of Canada convention in Toronto in March dished on both aspects to an audience of more than 120 gathered at the Northern Ontario Mining Showcase.

Moderated by Bob McDonald, host of CBC Radio’s Quirks and Quarks, and organized by Maestro Digital Mine, the panel discussed what the digital age is already enabling miners to do, how they see it progressing in future, and also shared their difficulties with the process.

CONTINUED ON PAGE 44

CANADIAN MINING JOURNAL |

43

DIGITAL TECHNOLOGY But first, they outlined why digitalization is so important to the mining industry.

“Data is the goal. . . we have to have as much as we can, as real-time as we can to make real-time, fast decisions,” said Ethan Hull, formerly Barrick Gold’s manager of IT for North America and now CEO of TECHrep Global.

“With data you are able to measure performance, and if we’re able to measure performance we are able to improve performance,” said Michel Samovojski, Goldcorp’s technology co-ordinator for the Canadian northeast region.

Now that mines are becoming increasingly connected with more robust communications systems that can transmit data and equipment that is constantly producing data, digitalization is yielding concrete, and sometimes unexpected results.

At Dundee Precious Metals’ Chelopech mine, in Bulgaria, the company has started to use a drone for mapping underground, thanks to its Wi-Fi communications system (See page 24 for details).

“Any mining engineer that works in Canada has never seen the inside of a stope because it’s so unsafe to go inside,” said Dundee’s vice-president of digital innovation, Theophile Yameogo. “The first time we sent a drone with a camera I was actually excited because that would be the first time I would see the inside of a stope – for us, surveyors not having to move closer to it is a big safety win.”

Dundee is also using machine learning technology to increase worker safety; it recently analyzed 10 years’ worth of health and safety data using a machine learning algorithm.

“It came back with insights we haven’t seen before. Now we know what time of day incidents are most likely to happen, for example, (which can help us) prevent them.”

The use of automated machinery is also having an impact on productivity. At the Borden mine in northern Ontario, using Maestro’s Plexus technology has enabled Goldcorp to use Sandvik’s AutoMine solution to continue working between shifts, giving the company two additional hours of mucking time per day, said Samovojski.

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And at one mine where Barrick implemented a short interval control program with the help of tablets that workers used as a new tool that provided better visibility into the tasks at hand, Hull said the crew increased man hours by 30 minutes a day, which translated to 400 extra tonnes per day and $40 million per year.

“Honestly they were getting that extra load because they were staging better, they weren’t waiting in a queue, they knew where they needed to go, they

could see the mine map, they could see where the need was and they would automatically go where the work needed to be done. They’re professional miners, they want to work, they don’t want to wait in line, just like we don’t want to wait in traffic.”

Difficulties with digitalization In addition to the benefits they’ve seen from digital technology, the panellists also discussed some of the challenges of www.canadianminingjournal.com

Moderator Bob McDonald with Ethan Hull (formerly of Barrick Gold), Michel Samovojski (Goldcorp), Theophile Yameogo (Dunee Precious Metals), and Chris Burgess (Yamana Gold). COURTESY: MAESTRO DIGITAL MINE

are also asking more questions now that they have more information, he noted.

“I’ve definitely noticed a different level of conversation – much deeper conversations.”

Data ownership and security Hull noted that data use and ownership can be contentious. A common attitude is: “‘Why do you want it and what are you going to do with it – you’re going to automate it and make me obsolete,’” he said.

“Data democracy’s a great term… the main goal is to try to get that information directly from the machine and that’s good because now we don’t have any manipulation, we get clean crisp data from the machine as much as possible.

But you’ve got to understand in a lot of organizations that’s a difficult challenge.”

CONTINUED ON PAGE 46

incorporating it into their operations.

“One of the biggest mistakes we made at Barrick was not understanding a) the technology stack and how it integrates with existing technology – so if we’re bringing something new, how does it interface technically – in the code all the way through the servers,” Hull said.

“And also, the people – are they ready to receive it? Do they even want it?”

The company had to engage with workers to make sure they understood how to use the technology and also that the technology worked for them. It also went back to the vendor to make the technology more intuitive.

Chris Burgess, director of innovation and transformation at Yamana Gold, noted the importance of change management.

“Technology is the sexy part but it’s easy, it’s proven technology. Are people going to use it?”

Yameogo noted that technology should be intuitive – training shouldn’t MAY 2019

be necessary, just like it’s not necessary to be able to use Amazon or a smart phone.

“When it comes to technology, it has to be fairly natural to use,” he said. “Our approach is to be really challenging on the providers so that (the technology they provide) is seamless.”

Data silos are another big challenge in mining. Digitalization means “data democracy,” said Yameogo, noting that the term means visibility rather than chaos, and that transferring information to the Cloud naturally creates data democracy.

“By moving to the Cloud and having this repository of data, now suddenly I, or somebody somewhere else, can run a machine learning algorithm on the data without having to go through sending a requisition.”

Burgess said that because of greater data transparency, Yamana is getting better insights about its operations and therefore able to make more strategic and timely decisions. However, people

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DIGITAL TECHNOLOGY

Theophile Yameogo, Dundee Precious Metals’ vice-president of digital innovation; Chris Burgess, director of innovation and transformation at Yamana Gold; Bob McDonald, host of Quirks and Quarks; Michel Samovojski, Goldcorp’s technology co-ordinator for the Canadian northeast; and Ethan Hull, former IT manager for North America with Barrick Gold and current CEO of TECHrep Global. COURTESY: MAESTRO DIGITAL MINE

One audience member remarked that a lot of data at mines is manipulated to some degree by the person who records it because of incentives, bonuses and other factors. Hull shared a similar experience from Barrick’s short interval control program.

“One of the first days we went underground to evaluate the technology and go through the numbers, we were going through the numbers with a general manager at an unnamed site and he said ‘I don’t like that number, change that number.’” The GM had a reporting meeting the next day and didn’t want to get chewed out and he knew he would make up the difference later, Hull said.

“I think that it starts with the top, your top GM, your superintendent… people need to be able to fail to a certain extent… let’s make (the data) accurate and understand the game plan. If you have more data then you can mitigate that faster, and if you have the real data 46 | CANADIAN

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Automation is having an impact on productivity. At the Borden mine in northern Ontario, using Maestro’s Plexus technology has enabled Goldcorp to use Sandvik’s AutoMine solution to continue working between shifts. from the machine, there’s no way that it can be misinterpreted.”

As data becomes more pervasive, security is becoming crucial, some of the panellists noted.

Hull noted a case several years ago

where a hacker was able to remotely operate some ventilation fans at a mine.

“What kept me up as an IT manager was that very thing – (the possibility of) somebody messing with the ventilation underground – that’s people’s lives.”

It may not be possible to prevent all security breaches, so companies need to make sure they have good cybersecurity practices and are able to react to breaches quickly, he added.

“How are you resilient to those security breaches – that’s often more important than preventing them,” Hull said.

“It’s really important to have segmentation between informational technology and operational technology so you will isolate both,” added Goldcorp’s Samovojski. “The informational technology area is easier to get to from the internet, but when you go deeper on the OT side of the business, it’s a lot more complex and you need to get more authorizations… it’s a lot harder to get there.”

CMJ www.canadianminingjournal.com

BIOMONITORING

Precision Biomonitoring staff surveys the Barefoot Box Culvert site designed by R.J. Burnside & Associates Ltd. for Brook trout habitat.

COURTESY: R.J. BURNSIDE & ASSOCIATES

How eDNA technology can reduce monitoring and EA costs

By Kevin Romanick

E

nvironmental DNA or eDNA biomonitoring is a breakthrough technology that has begun to revolutionize how industry can reduce monitoring cost and efforts, evaluate risk, and meet or exceed environmental regulations and permit requirements. Access to eDNA technology had been previously restricted to research institutions and affiliated corporations; this is no longer the case. After over a decade of research and development, eDNA biomonitoring is now at the point of commercialization. Mining and industry now have access to a new tool that can cut the cost of environmental assessments and monitoring from 25% to 68% and offers more reliable results.

MAY 2019

By sampling the environment and not the species itself, eDNA can determine if the species is or was present very recently. Testing is done using molecular biology tools developed for medical diagnostics.

What is eDNA As animals interact with their environment, they leave behind a trail of genetic material that lasts for days to a few weeks. This genetic material that is left in the water, soil, or even guano (bat feces), is called environmental DNA (eDNA).

It contains a code that is specific to that species, thus it can be distinguished from other species’ DNA by using specialized genetic tests. By sampling the environment and not the species itself, eDNA can determine if the species is or was present very recently. Testing is done using molecular biology tools developed for medical diagnostics, and that have CONTINUED ON PAGE 48

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BIOMONITORING now been adapted for fieldwork in rugged environments.

While the technology is sophisticated, the concept is simple; with millions of cells shed from a single organism, it is far more probable to find DNA than it is to find the organism that left it there.

It requires a fraction of the time taken by conventional methods to determine the presence or absence of a particular species, and the amount of time spent in the field can be cut significantly. In the case of rare, cryptic, or endangered species, confirming that the species is present or absent using conventional methods can be very difficult. Furthermore, the risk of a false negative, that is, concluding that a species is absent when it is in fact present, is considerable with conventional methods. False negatives can translate to unforeseen financial commitments associated with site remediation, in addition to project delays and negative publicity.

And, eDNA can be used to detect both aquatic and terrestrial species, including: fish, amphibians, turtles, bats, birds, salamanders, mussels and benthic invertebrates.

Suppose that a protected species of frog is believed to occupy a proposed development site for mining activity. The conventional approach would be to conduct acoustic surveys at specific times of year, over several months listening for the frog’s nightly call. This method is not only inefficient and expensive, but it is open to tremendous misidentification error by the observer, which could result in the wrong outcomes, and wrong management decision downstream. Environmental DNA methods, however, could confirm the presence or absence of the frog with confidence, in just a matter of days.

“Used correctly, eDNA has the potential to revolutionize how we conduct environmental assessments,” says Jay Cashubec, an aquatic ecologist with AECOM. “It has proven more accurate, costs less, and can be done in a fraction of the time of a regular survey, allowing us to accomplish more with less.” eDNA Attributes Environmental DNA biomonitoring represents the pinnacle of environmental 48 | CANADIAN

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Surveying the Barefoot Box Culvert site for Brook trout.

COURTESY: R.J. BURNSIDE & ASSOCIATES

It requires a fraction of the time taken by conventional methods to determine the presence or absence of a particular species, and the amount of time spent in the field can be cut significantly. responsibility. With properly designed tests and sound surveying approaches, much higher confidence in the accuracy of results can be obtained. Achieving this level of accuracy requires rigorously validated tests, or “assays,” which are designed to detect the target species, and only that species. Species-specific DNA assays can now be designed with such precision that even a single strand of DNA in a test sample can be detected.

With extremely sensitive DNA detection tests, it becomes a question of collecting enough water samples from the right locations to confirm that a species is using a given environment. Determining these locations will soon be automated thanks to the development of an eDNA design software program which use advanced statistical models and machine learning to help guide eDNA survey designs.

Some key attributes to eDNA biomonitoring are reduced monitoring effort and cost; work outside regulatory timing windows; there is no species capture and handling, which reduces the risk to disrupting the habitat or harming the animal, this is especially valuable with rare and cryptic species detection, which is facilitated considering eDNA allows for early detection of life-stages, and increases the window of probability for confirming presence. Envioronmen-

tal DNA has significantly faster sample turnaround times; and allows for a high degree of efficacy. In addition, it allows for early detection of invasive species.

Environmental DNA can help to evaluate the risk of proposed developments and expansions without exhaustive conventional methods of assessment. Sample turn-around times can be within hours, not days nor weeks; and eDNA can also help anticipate compensation costs by identifying sensitive areas (i.e. Lake Trout spawning shoals, Salmon nursery habitat, turtle wintering ponds, etc.) that may be impacted by development. Costs and effort for ecological monitoring as required by environmental permits can also be significantly reduced through use of eDNA biomonitoring. www.canadianminingjournal.com

eDNA Use Some mines across Canada have already begun to use eDNA in their annual biomonitoring initiatives. Much of the eDNA work done on mine sites to date has focused on various species of trout, such as the Brook trout. Brook trout are commonly used as indicator species because they are very sensitive to environmental changes. Thus, monitoring populations of Brook trout can reveal important information about the health of entire ecosystems, and the effect that mining activity may have on these systems. Recently, eDNA biomonitoring was incorporated alongside conventional electrofishing techniques at a mine site in northern Ontario. The objective was to conduct population assessments to MAY 2019

determine the viability of a Brook trout spawning habitat restoration project.

Environmental DNA has consistently yielded better detection results than electrofishing, with only a fraction of the time commitment, and no physical impact on the aquatic system. eDNA Approach Two genetic approaches are being used in the eDNA game. The first approach is a targeted approach, known as quantitative polymerase chain reaction (qPCR).

This is the gold-standard DNA diagnostic method used in medicine for over 25 years. The qPCR technique is an extremely accurate technique to detect between one and three target species at a time. These target species are usually

selected based on their ecological significance, but practically any organism can be detected based on the question being asked. The qPCR technique can be used to detect endangered species, a variety of indicator species, and invasive species, and is proven for its sensitivity, accuracy, and low cost.

The other approach in eDNA biomonitoring is known as metabarcoding.

This technique is often used in broadscale biomonitoring to characterize entire ecosystems and bacterial communities.

Metabarcoding can be used to simultaneously monitor most animal species in an aquatic system; and, in addition to changes in microbial activity as a result of chemical or effluent spills.

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While both techniques have complementary benefits, what is most important is that they are used correctly. Like most emerging technologies, eDNA biomonitoring encompasses sophisticated processes, from designing robust surveys and accurate tests, to extracting the DNA from samples onsite. The methods used to carry out these important steps are crucial for the successful integration of eDNA technologies into routine biomonitoring. eDNA Services Surveys should always be customized to the project and the species of interest; and sample timing and locations must reflect the biology and the ecology of the species of interest. Likewise, species-specific DNA tests need to be designed using specimens obtained from the geographic region of interest, and should always go through a series of rigorous validation steps to ensure confidence in results. Best practice is to conduct surveys using third party verified assays, robust survey designs, and sampling processes to reduce DNA degradation and contamination. With field-ready eDNA tools 50 | CANADIAN

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now available, water filtration, DNA extraction, and sample analyses can be done on site, which significantly reduce concerns around DNA degradation, and sources of contamination. DNA degradation in the samples is a common concern in eDNA biomonitoring if the samples are shipped to a central lab. The trace amounts of DNA in a water sample can degrade rapidly after collection if not extracted onsite in a thermostable buffer.

This degradation can be the result of high temperature, microbial activity, and UV light exposure. Fortunately, new DNA extraction protocols have enabled on-site extraction and stabilization of DNA, opening the door for eDNA surveys to be conducted in even the most remote locations, without the need to ship samples to a lab. This brings the eDNA lab to the field.

Environmental DNA biomonitoring answers the questions: w What species are present on site? w Are endangered species present? w What specific areas do they inhabit? w Have species migration patterns changed? w Are invasive species present?

Brook trout are commonly used as an indicator species because they are very sensitive to environmental changes. COURTESY: R.J. BURNSIDE & ASSOCIATES

All of these factors require careful consideration and can benefit from use of eDNA biomonitoring. As the global demand for resources rise, so too does the need for technological innovation that accommodates more accurate and efficient environmental measures, and offset costs. Environmental DNA biomonitoring offers these benefits, with significant cost savings of up to 68% compared to conventional methods, and with reliable and accurate results.

In addition, new applications for eDNA continue to be discovered, and eDNA has yet to see its full suite of applications and potential.

CMJ Kevin Romanick is the head of field operations at Precision Biomonitoring Inc. (PBI). He is a biotechnology in ecology expert a graduate of the master of biotechnology program at the university of Guelph. At PBI, Kevin leads eDNA surveys for several industrial applications, including compliance surveys for mining operations. www.canadianminingjournal.com

MINE & MILL

SAFETY

52 Maptek outlines Image: gorodenkoff; iStockimages.com

the benefits of slope monitoring technology

56 Hatch discusses

the potential of robotics and AI on safety

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Remediation at the site of a wall failure (see Page 55). Scans at three-minute intervals allowed remediation work to continue on the west wall without compromising safety.

COURTESY:MAPTEK

DEALING WITH SLOPE FAILURES

Maptek reports on how monitoring technology can enhance safety at mine sites Accurate tracking of slope movement is a significant step forward in ensuring safe mining operations. Reliability of the information recorded is

n

fundamental for strategic decision making and slope failure prevention.

M

n

ining activities involve considerable risks to people and equipment. Slope failures can result in serious injuries, accidents or even loss of life, and can lead to significant economic loss. These negative outcomes can be abated with effective risk management.

Through comprehensive planning and consultation with geotechnical experts, you can work to ensure accurate digging to design and uninterrupted day-to-day operations. However, as geotechnical

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constraints, geology, extraction methods, climate and weather events all have an impact on slope stability, the only way to reliably predict and prevent failures is by tracking the trend of movement through a dedicated monitoring system.

By investigating location, type of movement, material characteristics, and velocity, you can predict rock mass behaviour and further use the data to conduct stability analyses. Best industry practices include: n Continuously monitoring and mea-

n

suring ground movement for real-time reporting and analysis on captured data.

Appropriate identification and reporting on geometry and geological structure of the mining area.

Applying data correlations and analysis for presentation and forecasting.

Designing and implementing risk management programs based on accurate data.

The geotechnical information extracted from a monitoring system allows mines to establish comprehensive structural databases, ensuring control measures are put in place to predict potential rock mass failures and consistently carry out safe mining. Present day monitoring systems www.canadianminingjournal.com

allow mining operations to set custom thresholds for alarms, which trigger notifications when movement exceeds set tolerances. This enables management to implement safety procedures such as evacuation of personnel and equipment.

Real world insights Slope failure analysis conducted in a quarry in New Zealand provided interesting insights. Data collected and parameters set, in Maptek PointStudio software (formerly I-Site Studio), allowed a 3-D model to be created from surface geometry to back analyze and illustrate the levels of stress acting on a failure surface.

In this scenario, an assumption was made that no groundwater pressure was applied. Back analysis of the slope failure was conducted using different combinations of Mohr Coulomb parameters.

Implementation of the third-party software tool TSLOPE provided a solution using Spencer’s method (see figure 1).

3-D spatial measurements and visulization Interactive 3-D models are insightful tools for analyzing and reporting on captured monitoring data. Effective decision making is empowered by providing fast and accurate scenario visualizations, MAY 2019

Historical comparison of data collected at different points of time and at various locations can be used to forecast and report on any ground movements and changes to slope stability.

accessible to everyone who needs to know the status of the operation.

Detailed 3-D models provide valuable background information to: n Define, simulate and test exploration models and design mine plans. n Identify structural weaknesses and possible failures that may affect operational decisions. n Devise effective productivity improvement systems and strategy. n Design practical, achievable expansion strategies and appropriately allocate resources including forecasting machinery deployment.

Spatial modelling can be enhanced by heatmap features that allow you to compare surfaces and display changes over

Maptek’s laser scanners combined with its Sentry software can measure and visualize velocity of movement. CREDIT: MAPTEK

time. When managing tailings dams for example, material and sediment build-up can be explored and presented in a high quality and easy to understand format.

This provides additional advantages in predicting slope movements and identifying areas that are expected to change.

Effective management of tailings dams is essential to mine site safety, productivity and compliance with environmental standards. Tailings dam walls and surfaces can be safely surveyed from a remote standoff to record changes in deposition as the material dries, shifts and settles. Operations can easily analyze changes over time, comparing sediment level to a designated plane to identify areas of recent build-up. This helps determine dam management measures, such as valve open/closure, to ensure sediment is evenly dispersed.

Laser-based stability monitoring is ideally suited to surface deformation and wall stability analysis. Movement can be tracked and trends identified for future design and planning. Results are easily visualized in 2-D and 3-D, and reports CONTINUED ON PAGE 54

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MINE & MILL SAFETY

Figure 1: Slope failure analysis using Maptek PointStudio software CREDIT: MAPTEK.

are generated quickly for communication and further analysis.

Advantages of the 3-D spatial measurement approach include: n Monitoring and mapping structures and the surrounding area produce a true digital terrain model for contextual analysis of structures. n Heatmaps coloured by displacement or velocity provide an overview of surface movement. n Time lapse videos allow you to see changes in material deposition before and after inflow/outflow, and use this information to predict changes in other areas. n Single source collection of survey grade data can be applied to geotechnical studies and quantify volume of material moved.

Interpretation of patterns and history of movement Continuous laser-based monitoring allows for accurate recording of wall and soil movements or other structural failure events. The acquired 3-D point cloud data provides the source for analyzing patterns and reporting surface movements. Accurate information is then available to guide safety management programs and protect personnel and equipment during active mining, including rehabilitation and remediation activities.

For instance, a copper mine in South Australia used Maptek Sentry to monitor wall movements during three-week remediation work after a wall failure 54 | CANADIAN

MINING JOURNAL

incident. In December 2018, a rock fell from a steep wall 24 metres above the pit floor. The laser-based technology provided accurate point cloud data that was used for geotechnical analysis of the rockfall. The volume of the rockfall was calculated at 6,321 tonnes, and consequently 11,985 tonnes was removed during the remediation.

Remediation after a slope failure: Scans at three-minute intervals allowed remediation work to continue on the west wall without compromising safety.

Routine monitoring and inspections are necessary for: n Recording actual slope stability performance and real-time data. n Identifying design elements that do not comply with industry standards. n Ensuring timely intervention before any failure occurs.

Interactive 3-D models are insightful tools for analyzing and reporting on captured monitoring data.

Effective decision making is empowered by providing fast and accurate scenario visualizations.

Figure 2: Maptek heatmaps display sediment build-up in a tailings dam over monthly monitoring cycles.

CREDIT: MAPTEK

www.canadianminingjournal.com

Continuous laser-based monitoring allows for accurate recording of wall and soil movements or other structural failure events. The acquired 3-D point cloud data provides the source for analyzing patterns and reporting surface movements. Accurate information is then available to guide safetey management programs and protect personnel and equipment during active mining.

Historical comparison of data collected at different points of time and at various locations can be used to forecast and report on any ground movements and changes to slope stability.

Stabilization and safety management actions A critical aspect of managing mining day-to-day is to monitor movement to establish the safety of the operation. Policies, procedures, tools and technologies are implemented to reduce interruptions to active mining, and ensure the correct information is collected at the right place at the right time.

What can be achieved with innovative technology: n Survey measurements and monitoring data can be used for geotechnical anal-

n

n

n

n

ysis, helping to understand the cause of the failure and avoid future events.

Animated zones can be generated to display movement over time for assessing failures in the context of site history.

Intuitive 3-D models and visualization assist in identifying trends and rates of movement for implementing safety mitigation programs, such as removing excess material from slopes and pit floors.

Remote, continuous monitoring methods capture accurate data, providing a diagnostic tracking tool with clear visualization and analysis capabilities for making reliable decisions.

Rockfall data, including points of origin and final destination, can be measured, recorded and analyzed, to maintain a site rockfall database.

Innovation and beyond The increasing number of innovative technologies and systems available in the market can be overwhelming. Managers and geotechnical team leaders look for a system that reduces the risk associated with the complex interactions of a fast-moving mining operation, and delivers accurate real-time (or near realtime) data without sacrificing system flexibility or reliability for wider mine measurement applications.

Key considerations for mine managers include: n Capability to monitor multiple areas at the same time. n Visualization of the data for decision making process. n Compatibility or interoperability with other technical data systems at the site. n Reliability and efficiency of the technology, including power consumption. n Ability of the system to operate in rugged, extreme weather environments. n Ease of set up and ease of use.

By ensuring a safe and healthy workplace environment, you contribute to a more efficient and productive mining industry.

CMJ This article was provided by Maptek.

See www.maptek.com for more information.

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HOW ROBOTICS AND AI WILL IMPROVE MINING PRODUCTIVITY AND SAFETY

By David Rudge

E

ach day can be very different from the previous one, and the set of tasks to achieve, and problems to solve are always changing. In these environments, the stakes are particularly high when it comes to people and safety. Extreme conditions require great caution and expertise to navigate..

In contrast, industries that have witnessed some of the biggest technological changes exist in relatively uncomplicated environments. The automotive sector is a good example. Robotic systems for vehicle assembly have been designed for a clean, controlled environment. The technology isn’t overly complicated to develop, and it can be easily and quickly integrated, both safely and effectively.

Designing robotic systems in mining and metals environments requires robust, heavy-duty hardware that can function in extreme conditions. But frequently, such systems must be equipped with smart AI capabilities to handle unpredictability in a reliable way. A mining robot needs to be able to analyze its complicated environment and calculate the best course of action. This is why mining has been so slow to adopt new technology. It requires sector-specific, state-of-the-art development to address 56 | CANADIAN

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the industry’s unique challenges.

We’re now at a point where our technological capabilities are advanced enough to design systems that function effectively in complex environments while significantly improving safety and productivity.

We may reach a point in the not-toodistant future where people are no longer present at all at mine sites, where all operations are conducted remotely. We wouldn’t ever have to face the human tragedy of mining accidents, with the added benefit of reducing operating costs such as those associated with mine ventilation. The potential for streamlined operating processes to unlock a previously unattainable return on investment is significant.

The vision sounds attractive, but one of the questions I hear most often when it comes to technological development is how do we get there?

1. Challenge the status quo

Just because we’ve been doing things one way for decades doesn’t mean we need to continue, especially when it comes to people’s safety.

In mining and metals industries, people are still performing fundamentally

A laboratory prototype of Hatch’s Telerobotic Lancing system during development.

CREDIT: HATCH

hazardous activities, safeguarded only by personal protective equipment. This is where we need to start getting robotic technology to take over. This doesn’t necessarily mean eliminating human workers, but simply removing them from dangerous environments.

In fact, encouraging robotic integration will allow the continued diversification of our workforce, opening up the field to a broader range of people with different skill sets.

2. Focus on the specifics

The vision may seem big and far off, but the current state of development is actually much simpler to consider. New www.canadianminingjournal.com

cutline

prototypes are already being tested and validated as viable routes forward to improve safety and ROI. For example, we’ve prototyped a robotically controlled oxygen lance with advanced force-feedback features to tap a metallurgical furnace. The technology is operated remotely, allowing the operator to maintain the same touch and feel from the lance. The same kind of precision is delivered while eliminating safety concerns.

3. Choose a vendor with sector expertise

Many of the robotic vendors that serve traditional markets like automotive or MAY 2019

packaging aren’t well-suited to handle the new environments and unpredictable conditions we so often deal with in mining and metals.

Mining operators should be looking for a vendor with specific sector expertise, process knowledge, and risk management capabilities. It’s not just about finding somebody who can program a robot, it’s about finding a vendor that can deliver a complete technology-development solution from end to end.

I’m amazed at how quickly I’m seeing technology converge from all different areas. The possibilities seem to be limitless. Before I retire, I look forward to

the pride of knowing that technology has allowed us to create a safe working environment, and that mining professionals are being kept out of harm’s way regardless of the circumstances. We get closer and closer to having everybody go home to their families after every shift in the same condition they left them.

Instead of pickaxes and hardhats, mining will soon be known for advanced robotics and AI technology. It’s one of the most exciting times to be working in this industry.

CMJ David Rudge is global director, engineered equipment, with Hatch.

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The company’s two articulated haulers – the TA300 and TA400 – deliver low total cost of ownership and high productivity on jobs including large scale construction projects, infrastructure developments, quarries and mines.

Compactor The ALLU Compactor attachment is a hydraulic attachment for excavators ranging from 1.5 to 60 tonnes and combines several functions in a single attachment, enabling excavation, backfilling and compaction using a single unit.

Thanks to an imbalance generated, the compactor “bucket” replaces a compactor or a plate vibrator, with any vibrations being eliminated via rubber oscillation elements.

In excavator mode, the bucket is locked in position via a hydraulic cylinder, allowing the compactor bucket to be operated as a normal excavation tool.

The ALLU Compactor is highly versatile and robust, and with a practical design, is a true all-rounder and indispensable on any construction site with compaction being made more efficient and effective. Greater utilization of the base machines ensures that compaction costs are optimized, meaning no additional personnel are required, with significant savings in time, and a quick return on investment. Vertically arranged damper elements ensure extremely quiet operation and controller oscillation through maximizing the transfer of force into the ground.

The main benefits are: • Efficient working through adjustable frequency and force; • Excellent depth of penetration; • Transforms any base machine into a compacting unit; • Reduces the downtime at jobsites as one base machine can be used to execute several tasks; • Oscillation element keeps the noise and vibration at minimum levels; • Risk of accidents are minimized; • No extra emissions; and • Controlled compacting reduces the damages to pipes and the surrounding areas. www.allu.net

58 | CANADIAN

Since August, the TA300 has incorporated the new EP320 transmission, which comes with two additional forward gears – eight in total – as well as four reverse gears. This helps to ensure smoother gear shifting and thereby superior operator comfort. In addition to this, the TA300 now delivers a 5% improvement in fuel efficiency, as well as enhanced performance, productivity and operator comfort. It also now comes with long life transmission fluid, which has helped to increase the length of time between oil maintenance intervals from 1,000 to 4,000 hours. The hauler’s maximum speed has also increased to 55 km/h, up from 50 km/h. Ultimately, this means that customers can achieve faster cycle times, reduce the cost of operation per tonne and minimize their fuel consumption. www.TerexTrucks.com

Mining Excavator Hitachi is introducing the EX2600-7 and EX5600-7 mining excavators, which deliver enhanced efficiency, reliability and durability, to North and South America. These models are part of the new EX-7 Series line of mining excavators, which highlights Hitachi’s focus on continuous improvement through fuel efficiency technologies and advanced engineering.

Within the EX2600-7 and EX5600-7, Hitachi’s fuel consumption optimization (FCO) technologies reduce fuel consumption up to 8% to 10% compared to the previous models (EX2600-6 and EX5600-6) through engine options and hydraulic system improvements. Customers can choose from a Cummins or MTU EPA Final Tier 4 engine option. For non-regulated countries, customers can choose from a Cummins or MTU engine option that features fuel calibration optimization settings that contribute to improved efficiency.

Improved hydraulic efficiency includes main pump electric regulators, which were previously controlled by a hydraulic pilot system, and a reduction in the mechanical workload to power the hydraulic pilot system. The EX2600-7 and EX5600-7 also reduce the power consumption with a boom lower circuit regeneration and a large hydraulic oil cooler and fan which can operate at a lower speed to maintain optimal oil temperature.

The new EX-7 series machines also offer increased reliability with cylinder stroke end control, which helps ensure structural longevity and operator comfort by using angle sensors to help reduce the cylinder pump flow rate for smoother and slower movement.

Acting on customer input, Hitachi also rearranged the hydraulic hoses from an arched to an underslung configuration, which makes the hoses less prone to deflection due to decreased hose load. www.HitachiConstruction.com.

MINING JOURNAL

www.canadianminingjournal.com

Hybrid truck body

Dewatering pump Xylem, a leading global water technology company dedicated to solving the world’s most challenging water issues, has launched the latest in its series of smart pumps under its renowned Godwin brand. The new Godwin CD150S Dri-Prime dewatering pump has been specifically designed to combat the toughest mining and construction applications, allowing customers to dig deeper and build bigger.

The Godwin CD150S offers greater flexibility due to its interchangeable impeller – dramatically expanding the application range of the pump and providing customers with “two pumps in one.” The CD impeller can now be exchanged with Flygt N-Technology non-clog impeller, providing customers with the flexibility to tackle stringy, modern wastewater applications with the same pump.

Also, the pump system has been entirely redesigned with improved hydraulic efficiency, greater fuel economy, and streamlined serviceability to deliver more than: • 15% improved fuel economy; • 40% less service time; and • 20% greater uptime.

The pump’s compressor belt tensioner reduces the time taken to change and adjust the belt to approximately 30 minutes, and the addition of a new sight glass allows operators to accurately monitor the level and quality of the pump’s mechanical seal oil. This new and improved design improves service efficiency and cuts overall service time by 40%. www.xylem.com

At Bauma 2019, Metso showcased its Metso Truck Body, an innovation that combines the benefits of rubber and high structural strength steel, enabling mines and quarries to haul more with less.

“Hauling is one of the most cost-intensive components of a typical mining or quarrying operation. In addition to fuel and labour, there’s plenty of maintenance involved too. To ensure cost efficiency, a haul truck should carry as much payload as possible on every round. At Metso, we set out to tackle this challenge and designed a truck body that requires minimal maintenance while maximizing payload. The result is a lower operating cost per hauled ton,” says Lars Skoog, Metso’s VP, mining wear lining & screening.

The Metso Truck Body is a lightweight, rubber-lined tray designed for off-highway trucks. The elastic rubber absorbs the energy of every impact, preventing it from reaching the frame and thus allowing for a lighter-than-usual, high structural strength steel frame beneath the rubber. Thanks to this, the body can absorb maximum shock at the lowest possible weight.

A typical Metso Truck Body weighs 20-30% less than a traditional steel-lined truck body.

Depending on the application, this translates into a payload increase of several tons. The Metso Truck Body is available globally for all major off-highway truck models used in mining and quarrying. www.metso.com

Motorized pulley Rulmeca Germany presented its completely renewed TM400 motorized pulley generation at Bauma 2019. Thanks to optimized components, the new motorized pulleys with a diameter of 400 mm are significantly more energy-efficient and servicefriendly while offering even greater robustness and therefore plant uptime. Designed for the transport of bulk materials, the new motorized pulleys suit applications across many sectors.

The energy efficiency of the new TM400 motorized pulley generation, rated at 2.2 to 15.0 kW, has been increased by an average of 4.5% under peak loads thanks to more efficient electric motors with higher performance. Depending on the operating conditions, the resulting energy savings range from an impressive 12% to as little as 1%. When using the 15.0 kW class and working in two shifts with 90% utilization of nominal power, the average operating cost savings add up to €467 per year, based on a comparatively cheap kilowatt-hour rate of €0.20. The eco footprint also improves substantially as CO2 output is reduced by 1.2 tons when using a conventional power mix.

The new TM400 motorized pulley generation will be available in series production starting from the fourth quarter of 2019. www.rulmeca-germany.com

MAY 2019

CANADIAN MINING JOURNAL |

59

NEW PRODUCT SHOWCASE Radar sensors BinMaster’s 80 GHz NCR-84 is a precise, reliable continuous level sensor for liquid inventory. It is suitable for challenging conditions such as excessive steam, vapor, condensation, or surface foam, appropriate for use in tanks with turbulent product surfaces, viscous media, and slurries. Its precision aiming makes it easy to avoid agitators, fittings, heating coils or other obstructions in the tank. The NCR-84 is offered in threaded, flange, and hygienic versions plus a plastic antenna option for use in low pressure or temperature ranges.

Specify the versatile NCR-25 or NCR-30 in vessels up to 35 metres tall. The NRC-25 measures clean liquids under difficult process conditions such as high temperatures or pressure.

BinMaster’s low cost, 26 Ghz NCR-21 is the ideal solution for continuous measurement in small vessels. It works in water, wastewater, and other liquids in vessels up to 8 metres tall. The unit is ideal for pump stations and overflow monitoring. The flood-proof IP 68 enclosure ensures maintenance free, continuous operations. Both non-contact sensors are compatible with the BinView web app and Binventory software. www.BinMaster.com

Well treatment Ability Pump & Equipment has acquired the distribution rights to Canada for the BoreSaver well treatment chemicals. This line includes the BoreSaver Ultra C, which removes iron oxide and iron bacteria deposits and the BoreSaver IKL Pro which removes calcium, manganese and iron deposits that build up in wells, pipes and pumps. Their usage improves water supply quality, increases output and extends the working life of pumping equipment. They can be used without dismantling equipment and will not attack or deteriorate any materials inside the system. All products are certified by the NSF for use in potable water supplies and are biodegradable and environmentally friendly.

Hybrid screen In recent months, RUBBLE MASTER and Maximus have been working tirelessly on an RM innovation in the screens sector: the new fully electrified hybrid screen RM MSC8500e. The new hybrid screen was developed on the basis of the tried-and-tested RM MSC8500M screen unit. All the hydraulic drives have been replaced with electric ones. Only the crawler gear remains hydraulic. RM has channelled 30 years’ experience of electrical drive engineering into this screen. Components have been integrated that were developed specifically for RM in order to create supremely powerful and robust hybrid machines. All these engineering innovations add up to single source crushing, an RM first: the screen can be powered through the new RM 120GO! next hybrid crusher. Both crusher and screen can operate from a single power source. The crusher’s high-power generator supplies the electricity without the need for an additional diesel engine. This reduces emissions and noise levels. The customer has more mobility and flexibility than ever before when using the equipment because, apart from the single source crushing, the hybrid screen can also be operated by a diesel engine or other external power sources.

But RM has gone even further: The screen and crusher communicate with each other without wires or cables. When the crusher’s discharge belts are started, the screen also starts automatically. If blockages or faults occur, the screen also stops automatically. In addition, on the RM MSC8500e, a full-featured radio remote control system with display is used for the first time. The model is familiar from RM 70GO! and RM 90GO! and performs all functions meaning that the operator need not enter the danger area around the machinery during operation. With these safety standards RM follows the principles of RM GO! NEXT.

These products have been used successfully around the world for many years and are now being introduced to Canada for the mining and dewatering industries. Their use will decrease down time, improve well performance and in many cases prevent having to drill a new well.

RM GO! NEXT is the logical continuation of the RM GO! principle. Notable features are even more intuitive machine operation and further improvements to access points for maintenance and repair work. “Our crushers and screens communicate with the operator either directly by means of light signals or via the RM GO! SMART app,” explains RM founder and CEO Gerald Hanisch. “In this way the operator can monitor the plant directly from the digger cab and sees the most important indicators at a glance without having to enter the machine’s danger zone. We aim to make our crushers and screens even safer with RM GO! NEXT.”

www.abilitypump.com

www.rubblemaster.com

60 | CANADIAN

MINING JOURNAL

www.canadianminingjournal.com

FEATURE CONTINUED FROM PAGE 23 smart phone, can be used to confirm some of the modelling and smaller-scale test work done in the lab and pilot plant,” Fragomeni says. “Now if something is off, you will have some other information to help diagnose the problem.”

XPS has so far sold several PyroCams, most recently in South Africa and have had many other inquiries.

Lithium expertise In the battery minerals market, XPS has a couple of projects that have helped it develop expertise in the nascent lithium space, in particular in the spodumene hard rock deposits found in Canada.

The company is developing a milling process flow sheet for Frontier Lithium, which is advancing the PAK deposit in northwestern Ontario.

The company is also working on a joint project with Frontier and Ahmad Ghahreman, a professor at Queen’s University, to develop a process to refine spodumene concentrate into lithium hydroxide, which is the form of lithium compounds preferred by premium battery producers. More work needs to be done, but the process shows promise for being able to produce lithium hydroxide at a higher purity and for a lower cost compared to the industry average.

Ore particle and bulk sorting Fragomeni is also excited by new technologies being developed to improve the mining process and selectivity well before the ore hits the concentrator, including ore sorting or pre-concentration.

The sensor-based technology has applications for some ores and the challenges of capacity and accuracy of measurement are being quickly addressed by some of the vendors. The particle sorting technology is used very effectively at Stornoway Diamond’s Renard mine in Quebec and is being tested and evaluated on base metal sulphides and gold, Fragomeni says.

“The accuracy of the measurement and equipment capacity are always improving,” he notes. “Diamond mines don’t typically run high tonnage rates but when you get into some of the lower grade sulphide ores, you have to run very high tonnage rates so the pre-concentration machines need to have higher capacity.”

He adds: “The bulk sorting machines are definitely meeting this challenge and some full-scale testing is ongoing in South America.”

Fragomeni says this technology will have enormous benefits in the mine and comminution part of the process as it cuts down on the amount of material that operations need to hoist, haul, crush and grind. As a result of the ore sorting, the ore grade will increase as more of the waste is rejected and possibly left underground in the mine.

“It reduces the comminution energy required, it usually results in better recoveries and then there’s less tailings to deposit, too.

If thirty to forty per cent of the material is sorted and left in the mine before it goes to the mill, there’s that much less tailings that need to be stored and managed and lower long-term liability, so it has all sorts of positive ripple effects. It’s early days, but it will be possible in the future.”

CMJ

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CANADIAN MINING JOURNAL |

61

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62 | CANADIAN

MINING JOURNAL

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