THE REAL-TIME PROCESS
using three-
dimensional mapping technology, is
anticipated to reduce costs and improve
the efficiency of mining operations.
According to Rio Tinto, the ‘RTVis 3D’
technology creates 3D images of mine
pit activities that previously could not be
measured and provides pinpoint accurate
3D MAPPING BOOSTS
ore extraction
The next phase of Rio Tinto’s Mine of the Future program will utilise world-first
3D image software that retrieves data from automated trucks and drills to
identify the size, location and quality of ore.
mapping tightly focused on removing
high value ore.
Rio Tinto head of innovation John
McGagh says the technology has led to
greater ore recovery through sharper
boundary identification, more accurate drill
blasting, reduced explosives, improved
waste classification and enhanced dig rates.
“This technology allows us to quickly
and easily view, compare and evaluate
data to paint a picture of what’s under
the ground – it’s like an ultrasound
image of the deposit delivered in real
time, something that we could never do
before,” McGagh says.
“RTVis is a low-cost application that
complements existing group-wide data
technology in a way previously never
available to enhance our mining operations.
“It quickly brings information to a much
broader audience – from a single operator
in the field to an expert team in the Rio
Tinto Operations Centre in Perth.
“Armed with this detailed information, our
operations to recover the ore bodies will be
significantly more efficient and effective.”
The new 3D technology is deployed at
Rio Tinto’s West Angelas iron ore mine
in Western Australia and trials are also
underway in other Rio Tinto product
groups including copper, energy and
diamonds and minerals.
RTVis also provides rapid feedback on
the impact to equipment while another
important benefit is in mine planning, with
certainty provided on the nature of ore
deposits at an earlier stage.
RP
This technology allows us
to quickly and easily view,
compare and evaluate
data to paint a picture of
what’s under the ground.
Technology plays a large
role in Rio Tinto operations
SUMMER 2014-15 RESOURCE
PEOPLE
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INNOVATION
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