Epiroc, a major international mining-equipment company, has signed a deal with Vale Base Metals to test new mining equipment and new mining techniques to boost safety and productivity, said a company news release.
As part of the agreement, which Epiroc said is a non-binding Memorandum of Understanding, the two companies will collaborate to use Epiroc solutions in automation, electrification and digitalization across the underground mining cycle in areas from long-hole drilling to blasting, face drilling, bolting, mucking and hauling, said the release.
Sarah Hoffman, vice president sales and marketing at Epiroc’s Underground division, was pleased with the deal.
“We are excited about our shared commitment with Vale Base Metals to accelerate the transformation of the mining industry through innovation that will keep pushing the benchmark of safety for workers, without compromising on productivity,” said Hoffman.
Epiroc said Vale plans to use new methods and advances in underground technology to remove employees away from the rock face, away from production drilling areas and ground support locations in a move toward safer and more efficient mining activities.
"This includes remote operation of Epiroc and mixed fleet OEM equipment in isolated zones. The companies will evaluate innovative electrification technologies such as charging, equipment usage, operational efficiency, as well as potential partnerships on novel technologies with potential for more widespread application," said Hoffman.
The deal was endorsed by Luke Mahony, Interim Chief Technical Officer at Vale Base Metals.
“Safety is a central pillar of our operations so we're excited to develop solutions that strengthen our suite of available technologies to keep workers safe and drive overall efficiencies,” said Mahony.
“This partnership with Epiroc will be an important step on our journey,” he added.
Vale Base Metals, is a subsidiary of Vale Canada, which is the largest company with mining, refining and milling operations in Sudbury.
