Energy Optimization

The composition of mined ore can vary significantly from one deposit to another, and even within the same deposit. This variability affects processing method options and can lead to suboptimal energy utilization. Specifically, when energy is used in the processing plant to mitigate poor fragmentation from drilling and blasting practices. Adjusting processing parameters to handle the varying size of inputs efficiently requires continuous accurate monitoring and adaptation.

The processing stages in mining are energy-intensive, consuming large amounts of electricity and fuel. Finding ways to minimize energy consumption while maintaining production levels is often left to trial and error, and these processes can vary between shifts and crews. By harnessing real-time data and monitoring capabilities in processing plants, mine operators can more quickly identify areas for improvement and evaluate the effectiveness of energy-saving initiatives.

To reduce operational costs, minimize environmental impact and improve overall efficiency in energy utilization, mining companies need to effectively integrate renewable energy, leverage consumption data more effectively, and adopt a holistic approach to optimization.

Key Client Challenges:

1. Which processing steps have the highest energy consumption, and how can we effectively reduce it?
2. How can we use data analytics to identify energy inefficiencies and patterns in our processing operations?
3. Are there specific technologies or equipment upgrades and low-hanging fruit options that can lead to immediate energy savings?
4. What strategies can we adopt to optimize energy utilization while still maintaining production and product quality?
5. How can we balance the trade-off between investing in energy-efficient technologies and the initial capital costs?
6. Are there industry benchmarks for energy consumption in different types of mineral processing that we can use to assess our performance?

Implementing continuous monitoring of energy consumption and benchmarking against industry standards or best practices can help mining companies track their progress and identify areas where they can further optimize energy use.

Additionally, providing training to employees about energy management practices can help create a culture of energy efficiency within the organization. Personnel who understand the impact of their decisions on energy consumption are more likely to make choices that lead to energy savings.

Unison Mining’s subject matter experts understand the challenges with implementing new ways of working and the importance of incentivizing the necessary behavior changes that support these initiatives. By developing the processes, systems and controls needed to measure and track performance at every organizational level, a culture of continuous improvement can be fostered.