Mining contractor Thiess has taken another step toward being the leader of sustainable mining with the announcement of a trial of start-up Plotlogic’s OreSense technology at Austral Resources’ Anthill oxide copper mine in central Queensland.

With the promise of reduced environmental impact, improved safety and increased productivity, the OreSense technology scans rock to distinguish high grade resources from waste. The technology provides real-time information, eliminating the need for a week or more waiting for testing results. 

The technology is also expected to create environmental benefits through lower fuel usage and machinery consumables and a more optimised heap leaching process. 

Donna Sheehy, group manager – Geology and Geotechnical, said applications for the technology were far-reaching. “The machine takes around three minutes to scan a wall or mine face area of 15 metres by 50 metres – if the trial proves successful there is potential to scan dig faces and stockpiles to determine grade.” 

The trial is set to begin at the Anthill mine on 27 April, and will run for around four weeks.

Source: Thiess