Understanding Load Volume Scanning Benefits in Underground Mining

A recent report has highlighted the economic and environmental load volume scanning benefits for modern mining operations. As mines push for efficiency and sustainability, accurate load measurement has become essential. It helps improve productivity and reduces waste.

The study, UNDERGROUND MINING; Economic benefits of load volume scanning of underground mining trucks, examined the effects of load volume scanning at a Central Queensland underground gold mine. Researchers Professor Peter Knights and Maximillian Reuter from the University of Queensland conducted the study over seven months. Their findings provide clear evidence of the technology’s value in underground mining.

During the study, they observed a significant amount of carryback. This material sticks to the tray and often goes unnoticed when using weight-based systems. As a result, fuel consumption increased, truck payloads were under-utilised, and equipment efficiency dropped. Consequently, operating costs rose, and revenue was lost. Clearly, traditional load measurement methods leave room for costly errors.

The study also showed how a load volume scanner can address these issues. Mines can now track underloading, carryback, and uneven load distribution. Operators can take corrective action immediately, improving haulage efficiency and increasing trucking factors. In turn, production output rises, and fuel and equipment costs decrease.

Furthermore, implementing load volume scanning supports environmental goals. By reducing wasted fuel and unnecessary trips, mines can lower emissions. Overall, the technology provides measurable improvements for both economic and sustainability outcomes.

For mining operations seeking to boost productivity and reduce costs, the load volume scanning benefits revealed in this study demonstrate why more sites are adopting advanced volume-based measurement systems.

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