In a significant step toward improved efficiency and sustainability, Gold Fields is revolutionising operations at its Granny Smith Mine near Laverton in Western Australia through the adoption of ABB's cutting-edge digital platform, the ABB Ability™ Operations Management System (OMS).
This innovative move aims to revolutionise production scheduling and execution, facilitating real-time decision-making and maximising productivity at the remote mining site located 740 kilometres northeast of Perth.
At Granny Smith, approximately 1.6 million metric tons of gold-bearing ore are extracted annually from the underground mines and processed on-site, making efficient coordination and streamlined operations paramount.
The ABB Ability™ Operations Management System (OMS) serves as a pivotal component in Gold Fields' digital transformation strategy. It seamlessly integrates short-interval control and closed-loop scheduling into a unified digital platform, effectively connecting various facets of mining operations. This includes mine planning, design, maintenance, workforce management, equipment monitoring, and services, all accessible in real-time.
By doing so, it empowers operators to efficiently plan production schedules, automate tasks, and swiftly respond to any disruptions that may hinder production. This ambitious project was successfully realized with the invaluable support of mining consultancy Enterprise Transformation Partners (ETP) based in Australia.
Furthermore, Gold Fields aims to achieve unprecedented levels of production scheduling efficiency by connecting Granny Smith's entire workforce, along with both fixed and mobile equipment. This comprehensive approach covers all aspects, from bench preparation to the crusher, thereby optimising resource utilisation and improving the execution of the production plan. The introduction of 'what-if' scenario analysis and re-planning capabilities will empower the workforce to make informed decisions, thereby maximising efficiency and capitalising on financial opportunities for the operation.
Video Credit: Gold Fields - Linkedn
Commenting on this transformation, Rob Derries, Unit Manager of Innovation and Technology at Gold Fields Australia, emphasised, "Gold Fields has enjoyed a solid, collaborative relationship with ABB globally, and now we are working hard to deliver a modern digitalised mine at Granny Smith, one that is more productive and sustainable,” he said.
“As a mine operator, we face a broad range of planning and operational challenges in hard-to-predict environments.
“We are committed to building on our people's capability and experience by working with technology innovators to bring in the tools and systems to better manage this balance.
“It also allows our people to move into more highly skilled roles and tasks.”
Alan Teixeira, Product Business Line Manager for Mining & Digital Solutions at ABB, highlighted the potential benefits of their OMS solution, stating, "By providing ABB's OMS solution, we will support the Gold Fields team with significant improvements to planning and productivity, moving the responsibility and reliance from individuals onto an efficient digitalised system for faster decision-making and higher productivity."
Gold Fields' adoption of ABB's digital platform marks a milestone in the gold industry, highlighting the importance of embracing technology to enhance operational efficiency, sustainability, and workforce empowerment. The Granny Smith Mine is poised to set new benchmarks as it continues its journey towards a digitalised and more productive future.