Technology Forces at Work in Mining Industry Views of Critical Technologies

by Peterson, D. J.; LaTourrette, Tom; Bartis, James

• ISBN13: 9780833029676
• ISBN10: 0833029673
• Format: Paperback
• Copyright: 2001-03-20
• Publisher: RAND Corporation

Summary

The results of a series of in-depth discussions with leading representatives of 58 mining and quarrying firms, equipment manufacturers, research institutions, and other organizations selected for their prominent position in the industry and their ability to think broadly about technology trends. These trends include adoption of information technologies and optimization of mining operations and equipment; the use of information and communications technologies to more closely integrate mine operations; improved maintenance technologies and practices; and gradual implementation of technologies for operator assistance, remote control, and automation. The discussions highlighted the importance of collaborative technology research, development, and implementation strategies and the increasingly critical role of mine personnel in the utilization of new technologies.

Table of Contents

Preface	iii
Figures	ix
Tables	xi
Summary	xiii
Acknowledgments	xxi
Acronyms and Abbreviations	xxiii
Glossary	xxv
Introduction	1	(8)
About the Study	2	(5)
Task and Purpose	2	(1)
How the Study Was Conducted	3	(2)
Definitions	5	(1)
Scope	6	(1)
The Report	7	(2)
Drivers of and Impediments to Technology Change	9	(12)
Industry Demand for New Services and Equipment	9	(2)
Regulatory and Stakeholder Pressures	11	(2)
Commodities Markets	13	(3)
Research and Development Funding and Alliances	16	(2)
Industry Consolidation	18	(1)
Globalization	19	(2)
Critical Technologies for Unit Operations	21	(12)
Drilling, Blasting, Cutting, and Excavating	21	(4)
Ground Control	25	(3)
Miner-Bolters	25	(1)
Cable Bolts	26	(1)
Spray Coatings	26	(2)
Loading and Hauling	28	(3)
Materials Processing	31	(2)
Critical Technologies for Process Optimization and Control	33	(20)
Information Technologies	35	(4)
Sensors	35	(1)
Positioning	36	(1)
Computer and Electronics Hardware	36	(1)
Computer Software	37	(1)
Communications	37	(2)
IT-Driven Process Management and Optimization	39	(8)
Planning	39	(1)
Dispatch	40	(1)
Surveying	41	(1)
Equipment Positioning	42	(1)
Performance and Productivity Monitoring	42	(1)
Process Integration	43	(2)
Knowledge Management	45	(2)
Remote Control and Automation	47	(6)
Remote Control	49	(1)
Automation	50	(3)
Critical Technologies for Operations and Maintenance	53	(8)
Equipment Monitoring and Diagnostics	55	(2)
Repair and Maintenance Scheduling	57	(1)
Maintenance Technologies and Practices	58	(1)
Robust Systems and Materials	59	(2)
Critical Technologies for Organization and Management	61	(10)
Outsourcing	61	(2)
The Human Environment	63	(4)
Technology and Human-Resources Management	67	(4)
Concluding Remarks	71	(1)
The Diversity of the Mining Industry	71	(1)
Responsibility for Mining R&D	72	(2)
Upstream and Downstream Innovation	74	(2)
Coordination of Technology and Regulatory Development	76	(1)
Workforce Age	77	(1)
Technology Crossover Opportunities	78	(1)
Measuring the Impact of New Technologies	79	(4)
Appendix
A. List of Study Participants	83	(8)
B. Discussion Protocol	91