Centre for Marine Science and Technology
ISA NEWS
(fortnightly newsletter of Mount Isa Mines Ltd., Mount Isa, Queensland, Australia)
December 12, 1996

Teleloader Operators See 3D

Mount Isa Mines Copper Smelter has improved its recently commissioned teleloader by installing a 3-dimensional camera to the front of the vehicle.

This upgrade, engineered by the Centre for Marine Science and Technology at Perth's Curtin University of Technology in conjunction with Mount Isa Mines is part of a world's best practice initiative.

Andrew Woods of Curtin University, was in Mount Isa to assist the Isa team (Kerry Farlow and Karl Richardson) install the system.

He said that Woodside Offshore Petroleum in Karratha was the only other place in Australia using such a system. "Woodside are using it on underwater vehicles at their offshore oil platforms", he said.

The Copper Smelter Teleloader is driven by remote control with the aid of on-vehivle cameras to clean under the converters while they are in operation.
Karl Richardson (Mines Surface Technician), Andrew Woods of Curtin University and Kerry Farlow (Applied Physicist) in the Teleloader Operator Station at the Copper Smelter
The teleloader with 3D camera in the box on top. It will make operations in the Copper Smelter far more efficient and cost-effective.

Kerry Farlow, Applied Physicist in Engineering Research at Mount Isa Mines, said that the upgrade will give the operators a better sense of depth and reduce the risk of damage and accidents. The installation of the 3D system is part of an ongoing upgrade to the Copper Smelter.

The system will also be used on the teleoperated excavator for converter mouth cleaning, where an even greater sense of depth is required.

So far, all Operator's comments on the new device have been very positive with people commenting on the efficiency of its use and its manoevrability.

Tony Coombes, COnverter Superintendent, also said that all operators have commented on the fact that the new 3D operated teleloader is a huge improvement on the previous system.

Future improvements are also expected from the upgrade and the Isa News will keep you posted.

 

Search CMST Site Map