The New Afton block cave mine in Canada has introduce autonomous electric loaders made by Sandvik, a Swedish company that offers products and services for mining and rock excavation.
Sandvik’s 18-ton autonomous loader—the Toro LH518iB—has been in service since mid-November at the mine, working in a designated test area.
The Toro LH518iB loaders are equipped with several features aimed at increasing production and safety in underground mining operations. Introducing automation and electrification will “enable New Afton’s operations to enhance cycle times and reduce heat, noise and greenhouse gas emissions at Canada’s only block cave mine,” the company said.
The rising demand for nickel, lithium and phosphates, as well as the fact that mines are generally located in remote areas, is fueling an increased desire for such automated machines, while stricter government mandates are necessitating a move from gas-powered to electric hardware.
Source: Sandvik
