CMIC in collaboration with Sandvik and its members launched a project that enables the opportunity for collective learning about mechanical rock excavation (MRE) technology. Through this consortium, participants will gain extensive knowledge in the technology that will enable them to accelerate deployment of mechanical cutting at their operations.
Mechanical cutting has been identified as a transformational opportunity to disrupt the current paradigm of the conventional drill and blast platform process. This project is aligned with the strategic thrust for electrification of mines and the move away from diesel equipment.
Mechanical cutting also supports the deployment of other transformative platform technologies, such as sensor-based ore sorting closer to the face and continuous haulage. Implementation of these technologies will shift thinking to continuous mining models and enable lower-grade deposits to be mined.