A Data-driven Framework to Reduce Diesel Spillages in Underground Mines

Abstract

Several methodologies have been developed to manage diesel in open-cast mining due to its high demand and increasing diesel prices. Although the use of diesel-powered equipment in underground mines has increased over the years, effective management thereof has not received the same attention. With the advent of Industry 4.0, data can be utilised more effectively by modern businesses to identify and solve problems in a structured manner. In this study, an underground mine was used as a case study to determine whether a Data, Information, Knowledge, Wisdom (DIKW) method for diesel management could be coupled with the Six Sigma Define, Measure, Analyse, Improve, Control (DMAIC) tool to make more informed decisions and gain new insights to help reduce diesel wastage underground. The new integrated methodology identified diesel spillages and highlighted the biggest contributors to these underground spillages. The Six Sigma DMAIC domain utilised root cause analysis to determine the reason for recent systems failures, followed by the identification of practical solutions to eliminate up to 200 ML (megalitres) of diesel spillage. With this information, the case study mine stands to save over USD 175,000 per annum.

A Review of In Situ Leaching (ISL) for Uranium Mining

“…The exposed ore body is then ripped and transported to the stockpile and mill sit for subsequent processing to obtain uranium products. On the other hand, underground mining is applied to deeper-buried uranium deposits or those where open-pit mining is not feasible [54][55][56]. The method involves sinking a shaft or driving an adit near the ore body to extend levels at various depths, allowing miners to access and remove the ore to the surface for subsequent processing.…”

“…The uranium-bearing solution, known as the pregnant solution, is then brought to the surface for further treatment. Table deposits or those where open-pit mining is not feasible [54][55][56]. The method involves sinking a shaft or driving an adit near the ore body to extend levels at various depths, allowing miners to access and remove the ore to the surface for subsequent processing.…”

Enhanced Measurement and Verification Practices in Deep-Level Mines: The Current State

“…The introduction of more meters over time has sparked differing perspectives on the future of advanced M&V. Some, like Conradie [54], have turned to simulations to predict the impact of projects on energy consumption, although this method is perceived as slow, cumbersome, and reactive. Additional energy monitoring tools such as live simulations and dashboards were used by Nell [1] and Ngwaku [55], respectively.…”