Keeping the Metal in Motion

ENGINEERING & MINING JOURNAL – JUNE 2015

Finally, studies indicate that one of the most effective methods for improving underground haulage productivity is to teach operators how to adhere to best practices, using equipment simulator training techniques.

As an example, a session with ThoroughTec Simulation’s CYBERMINE underground articulated dump truck (ADT) simulator continually monitors and records a trainee truck driver’s performance in terms of cycle times, processed tonnage, adherence to safety procedures, correct equipment handling techniques and response to emergency situations and sub-system failures.

These performance reports, together with the instructor’s after-action review capability, provide a complete underground mine truck operator training and evaluation system, according to the South Africa-based company.

And, it’s not always necessary to begin with an elaborate simulation setup. “Our CYBERMINE CBT is proving popular, particularly in Africa and Latin America,” Richard Bellengere, executive vice president–operations at ThoroughTec, told E&MJ earlier this year. “This introductory level eLearning tool walks novice recruits through a particular vehicle’s basic controls and operation, as well as the environment, site operating procedures and safety checks.”