Driverless vehicles are revolutionising operations in UK quarries, offering enhanced safety and productivity.
- Autonomous technology, though slow to gain public acceptance, finds a practical application in private quarry settings.
- Notable industry players like Caterpillar and Komatsu have paved the way for autonomous mining trucks, marking significant advancements.
- A recent demonstration by Bell Equipment and CPI at a Devon quarry showcases the practical benefits of driverless technology.
- The integration of autonomous vehicles aims to reduce accidents, improve efficiency, and lessen carbon emissions.
In the realm of UK quarrying, the advent of driverless vehicles represents a significant technological evolution. The notion of autonomous vehicles has faced skepticism from the public, particularly in urban motoring contexts. However, the application of such technology in the controlled environment of a quarry proves both feasible and advantageous. Leading manufacturers like Caterpillar and Komatsu have been trailblazers in this field, pioneering the deployment of autonomous mining trucks over the past decade.
At a china-clay quarry in Ivybridge, Devon, Bell Equipment and Chepstow Plant International (CPI) unveiled an autonomous Bell B40E articulated dump truck in collaboration with German tech firm Xtonomy. This initiative, born from a joint effort between Bell Equipment and Xtonomy, chose the Cornwood quarry, managed by Sibelco, as the test bed for this cutting-edge technology.
The Bell B40E features sophisticated onboard technology, including radar sensors, high-precision GPS, and multi-channel communication systems, all orchestrated by Xtonomy’s advanced software and hardware. According to CPI, this setup enables ‘true and safe autonomy’ by dynamically planning and controlling the vehicle’s path throughout the quarry.
CPI anticipates several operational benefits from deploying autonomous articulated dump trucks. Enhanced accuracy in vehicle operation is expected to improve tipping precision, while the capability for extended operation beyond human work hours could significantly boost productivity. The elimination of human control promises to reduce mechanical wear and tear, potentially extending the vehicle’s lifespan. Furthermore, autonomous vehicles are projected to contribute to environmental goals by decreasing fuel consumption and associated carbon emissions.
Nic Grout, Bell Equipment’s managing director, highlighted the transformative potential of integrating driverless technology into their vehicle line-up, setting a precedent for future innovation. Similarly, Ben Uphill, Sibelco’s operations director, advocated for the widespread adoption of such technologies across the minerals and aggregates sector, citing substantial operational and economic benefits. Uphill emphasised the role of automation in addressing skill shortages and enhancing overall efficiency.
The introduction of driverless vehicles in UK quarries heralds a new era of efficiency and safety, with promising implications for the industry.
