Ryan Ewing
The mining industry, ever-evolving, and dynamic, has seen remarkable changes over the years, driven by technological advancements and the pursuit of more sustainable and efficient operations.
My initial steps into the mining industry were grounded in a fascination for mechanical engineering and the use of large-scale equipment on the surface and the complexities underground. As a young engineer, my journey into the industry came through a remote fly-in-fly-out (FIFO) operation in Northern Canada. This experience provided an opportunity to work with and support all areas of the mining operations and logistical activities required to keep the remote camp going. This revealed how each aspect of the mine was intertwined and the technical complexities that each area had. An environment packed with heavy machinery, power generation, water treatment facilities, and logistics unveiled itself, providing an endless opportunity to gain knowledge and grow technically.
Underground mining comes with several challenges contributing to the demanding task of achieving production and timelines. A few notable ones for me have been environmental uncertainties, equipment, parts availability, and personnel logistics. However, a notable achievement in my career was leading the introduction of autonomous and semi-autonomous equipment into the underground production process. Collaborating closely with the suppliers and teams on-site, we recognized the potential to improve safety, reduce maintenance costs, and increase production by minimizing delays and human factors.
" The convergence of new bleeding-edge technology, environmental stewardship, and enhanced safety protocols paints an optimistic portrait of the industry's trajectory "
Incorporating this additional technology also enabled continuous operations over crew changes and while blasting. Our efforts and persistence led to the successful implementation and testing of this bleeding-edge technology at the time. As the potential of autonomous and semi-autonomous equipment became evident through iterative improvements, the support grew, particularly from the younger generation entering the industry. This technology was gradually integrated throughout the underground mine, on all the production levels, enhancing efficiency and safety.
Ultimately, this transition boosted production rates as miners safely operated equipment remotely, yielding higher output compared to traditional underground methods.
In my current capacity as Operations and Maintenance Manager, technological advancements have significantly contributed to how we’ve designed Resolution Copper's future. This project is characterized by distinct variables that set it apart from conventional mines, encompassing factors such as ore body depth, rock temperature, and geotechnical stability. Remarkably, even before the mine's transition to full-scale production, innovative technology and software have enabled us to comprehensively model these intricate aspects.
The evolution of scanning and remotely operated vehicles (ROVs) has proven invaluable, facilitating precise location modeling. A common misconception regarding automation in mining is that automation leads to a reduction in jobs, which is not entirely accurate. Instead, it transforms the nature of employment, focusing on different types of roles. These new positions are often centered on managing and overseeing autonomous systems, ensuring their safe and efficient operation. This transition not only maintains the workforce but also enhances safety and efficiency, making mining a more secure and productive industry for all involved.
Resolution Copper is exploring opportunities that promise enhanced efficiencies for the future. A prominent focus involves sustainable power management systems and curtailing water consumption across the site. Notably, the integration of natural energy production, electric mobile equipment, and the deployment of autonomous production fleets are under strategic consideration. Additionally, the development of a sophisticated water management system designed to maximize water reuse and recycling underscores the project's commitment to sustainable practices. These forward-thinking initiatives boast an exciting phase of advancements for Resolution Copper and Arizona.
In the dynamic realm of mining, technology's rapid evolution has driven the industry to where it is today and what the future could look like. Looking back to the inception of my career, the landscape was characterized by smaller, more mechanical equipment, and the notion of electric vehicles or large-scale natural energy generation had not yet taken root. Operational and maintenance tasks were significantly more manual. However, the change and vision have been undeniable. With this evolution, there is also the transition from solely mining metals and materials to also mining data. This data-centric approach empowers quicker decision-making, drives process enhancements, and unveils hidden potentials within the business. Technology's role has transitioned from a supplementary tool to a critical asset in shaping the mining landscape.
As we contemplate the future of mining engineering, endless opportunity emerges. The convergence of new bleeding-edge technology, environmental stewardship, and enhanced safety protocols paints an optimistic portrait of the industry's trajectory. To those aspiring to join this exciting and dynamic industry, I offer a simple message: nurture your curiosity, challenge the conventional norm, and, above all, seek answers that pioneer innovative solutions.
