Article by: Jake Tan, Product Manager, Fluke South East Asia Pte Ltd
The Philippine mining industry, while rich with potential, faces ongoing challenges in operational safety and efficiency. With the landscape of mining continuously evolving through technological innovation, there is a significant shift towards enhancing not only productivity but also environmental stewardship and worker safety. This article explores the proactive steps mining companies can take, with the support of companies like Fluke, to enhance safety and reduce operational downtime while reducing their impact on the environment.
Embracing evolving technologies
A prominent trend in the mining industry in recent years is the electrification of assets. The gradual shift from diesel to electric vehicles within mining operations is an example. This transition not only promises to reduce greenhouse gas emissions but also enhances operational efficiency. While new technologies are more easily embraced in new mine set-ups, the implementation in remote and old mines is hampered by the substantial investment and logistical considerations required for the introduction of new infrastructure to support electrification. Automation, powered by artificial intelligence tools, further complements this shift, enabling more precise control over mining operations and increasing safety by reducing human exposure to dangerous conditions.
Evolving the workforce
As technologies evolve, so too must the mining workforce. Upskilling is essential not only for operating new electric and automated equipment but also for prolonging the lifespan of machines, avoiding unplanned downtime and maintaining safety standards. Training programs are vital to ensure that workers are proficient in the use of the latest technologies to manage safety during mining operations.
Ensuring that all personnel are well-trained and aware of safety protocols is non-negotiable. The use of tools and machinery with the correct safety ratings, particularly in environments with electrical hazards, is crucial. Furthermore, continuous training and a strong safety culture within the organization play important roles in preventing accidents and ensuring operational efficiency.
In addition to providing professional electronic test tools and software for measuring and condition monitoring for the mining industry, Fluke supports their use with comprehensive, customized training. This ensures that all involved personnel know how to use the tools and operate them safely. While mining companies provide the necessary tools and training, the onus is equally on individual operators to understand and implement safety standards. Knowledge and vigilance are key defenses against potential dangers in the field.
Adopting proactive maintenance procedures
Equally important is the implementation of best practices to maintain operational efficiency and reduce downtime. Predictive Maintenance stands out as a forward-thinking approach to manage this goal. Predictive maintenance supports the identification of potential problems before they cause operational disruptions and allows for timely interventions that can prevent costly downtime. For example, a mining dump truck tyre cost can range 5k to 20kUSD. Early signs of air leaks from the mining dump truck tyre or pneumatic system can be spotted with the acoustic imaging solution Fluke-ii910 to prevent the costly breakdown. This process involves screening for abnormalities, diagnosing the root cause to avoid repeated failures, and undertaking the necessary repairs in the field to ensure continuous operation and safety. Fluke supports its mining clients with a range of condition-based measurement solutions to help identify invisible conditions that can compromise safety in the mine such as air leaks, mechanical bearing misalignments, power interruptions and electrical partial discharges.
Establishing a routine preventive maintenance schedule helps reduce unplanned downtime, which is often more costly and hazardous than planned time-outs. Scheduled maintenance is not just a cost-saving measure, it is a critical safety practice. Adopting a maintenance schedule can not only significantly extend the lifespan of fixed operational assets but can prevent the severe wear and tear that leads to unexpected failures, safeguarding both the machinery and the miners.
Fluke also adds value by consulting on ways to prolong machine life with the quality of the energy source powering equipment through its Power Quality Analyzer solutions. The cleaner the electricity powering the equipment, the lesser stress is placed on the machine, maximizing its lifespan. Use the unique energy loss calculator in the power quality analyzer Fluke-1777 to help you identify your energy wastes. The benefits to the environment are a natural by-product.
With New Practices Comes Great Responsibility
No business today is exempt from incorporating sustainable practices into their operations, including those in the mining industry. New technologies facilitate eco-friendly operations, significantly reducing the environmental impact of an industry that has traditionally been reliant on fossil fuels. For instance, adopting renewable energy sources and optimizing resources use are critical steps towards sustainable mining.
The industry can enhance sustainability by investing in solutions like clean-energy-powered microgrids. These not only provide clean energy but also reduce operational costs, showcasing a commitment to both environmental and economic sustainability.
The integration of advanced technologies and adherence to rigorous maintenance and safety standards are imperative for the future of mining in the Philippines. These practices not only enhance operational efficiency but also ensure the safety of the workforce and reduce environmental impact.
As the mining industry moves forward, it is crucial to invest in technologies and predictive maintenance plans that safeguard operations, workplace safety and the environment. This added small investment in the short-term pays dividends in the long run. We encourage you to explore Fluke’s professional electronic test tools for measuring and condition monitoring, including Fluke’s solar solution toolbelt, designed to support your journey towards sustainable and efficient mining practices. These tools not only meet the stringent requirements of the mining industry but also align with global sustainability goals, which we “predict” will empower your operations well into the future.
