Exxaro’s Grootegeluk Coal Mine Chooses New ThoroughTec Simulator

MINEWEB.COM – FEBRUARY 2010

South African simulator manufacturer ThoroughTec has been selected by the big Grootgeluk Coal mining complex for the supply of a new simulator system with interchangeable cabs.

Exxaro’s Grootegeluk Coal Mine in Limpopo, South Africa which operates the world’s largest coal beneficiation complex has once again selected ThoroughTec Simulation as their simulator systems provider of choice after an exhaustive open tender supplier evaluation process.

ThoroughTec’s range of CYBERMINE simulators are globally recognised as among the most advanced simulators in the mining and construction industries. In keeping with Exxaro’s commitment to operational excellence and high safety standards, the CYBERMINE simulator will be an integral component of training procedures at Grootegeluk Coal Mine. CYBERMINE simulators have not only been proven to increase safety levels, lower operational costs and increase productivity, but are also seen as a key factor in addressing the skills shortages that have affected mining operations globally.

“Safety is a key issue in the mining industry, more so than most other industries.”

In addition to the CYBERMINE simulator (fitted with a six degree-of-freedom motion platform), Exxaro has purchased ‘plug-and-play’ interchangeable cabs to simulate both the Komatsu 730E Haul Truck and P&H 2300 Rope Shovel. Grootegeluk Coal also opted to purchase the development of an ‘own-mine-world’ which will accurately replicate the topography and operational conditions of the mine’s open-pit to provide the trainee haul truck and shovel operators with the highest possible realism during training.

According to Dr John Waltham, Executive Director at ThoroughTec, “Safety is a key issue in the mining industry, more so than most other industries, simply because of the dangers inherent in mining operations. Exxaro is committed to safety-first and operational excellence and the CYBERMINE simulator will be one of the key components in the continual quest for increased safety and reduced production costs”.

At the heart of ThoroughTec’s CYBERMINE simulators is the simulated cab, a highly realistic replica of the actual equipment, with fully functional simulated instruments and controls mounted on a high-end motion platform providing accurate motion perception cues. The cab is surrounded by a wide angle, high- resolution projection display system coupled with surround sound audio. Control of all training aspects is exercised in real time from a feature rich instructor station. The entire system is housed in a well-appointed, self-contained ISO container, which also facilitates ease of transport.