Sandvik Mining and Construction is using the latest in training simulators at the DeBeers-Snap Lake Mine Training Program in its Yellowknife branch.

CYBERMINE™ Simulation Technology, a collaboration between Sandvik and ThoroughTec, is the most advanced and comprehensive training simulator available.   With a single simulator, operators can train on loaders, trucks, bolters and jumbo drills.  An external viewer also can engage a full classroom setting.

The CYBERMINE™ Simulations Technology helps effectively train operators in mining operations, which in turn optimizes productivity, improves safety and minimizes operating costs.  In addition to the training provided for practical application, the simulator helps eliminate the safety risk in training, the damage to production equipment and the need to remove a machine from production for training purposes.  Overall, the simulator provides mining operators with the safest, most cost-effective method of training available.

One example is the CYBERMINE™ Axera Jumbo Drill module of the simulator, an important application because mistakes made in the drilling cycle have extensive downstream cost implications throughout the mining operation.

During the training, the operator views the simulated world on three high-resolution, wide-screen displays projected strategically about the operator’s cab so that both drilling and tramming operations can be performed effectively.  The operator’s cab is replicated with all drilling and tramming instruments and controls, correctly located about the operator.  Twin, single and multi-boom models can be simulated.

The underground training environment delivered with the system provides typical tunnel geometry and surface relief, requiring the operator to employ the same car and skill used during real drill rig operation in order to avoid collisions with the ceiling, walls and floor.  Correct placement and deployment of the carrier module is required prior to drilling in the marked areas.

During the drilling cycle, the operator executes all drilling training tasks as he or she would in the real vehicle.  The operator experiences realistic drilling behaviours, including interaction with simulated rock characteristics such as hardness and drill-ability.  In this way, the CYBERMINE™ Simulator Technology provides a highly realistic drilling experience in which the operator can vividly experience the safety and productivity in a mining operation.