Mining operators achieve new benefits with each stage of their digital transformation.

Digital Twin

A digital twin is a virtual representation that models a physical asset and its process behavior. In the digital twin, thousands of operational variables can be analyzed virtually in a way not possible with physical assets to determine the optimal working parameters for a mine.

Fluor’s project automation specialists can assist mine owners in selecting and implementing a digital twin platform, or alternatively, aligning the project data structure towards the owner's chosen platform. Our smart data transfer process establishes common project data standards, based on widely accepted international standards, at the beginning of the project, facilitating smooth and timely data transfer of project data into the owner's digital twin.

Real-time Data Collection

Mining operators can now use increasingly affordable measurement devices and inexpensive Wi-Fi networks to capture vast amounts of data. This data ranges from the tire pressure of haul trucks, to mill liner wear, to the corrosion rate of pipelines and real-time analysis of raw ore in mine shovels.

Unique in the industry, Fluor maintains a mine site data collection opportunity register to track and itemize the vast array of data collection technology available in the growing marketplace. This tool helps project teams select the right solution to meet the specific needs of each mining operation. It allows the scope for big data collection to be defined in project baselines and makes sure that Wi-Fi and data collection networks are correctly designed to support them sufficiently early in the project's development.

Data Analysis via Artificial Intelligence and Optimization

Artificial intelligence tools are most effective when they incorporate interrelationships of a broad collection of data. This might include material characteristics, shovel data, haul truck availability, crusher performance and the mine plan, all analyzed not individually but as part of a unified system.

Fluor's process technology specialists, data analysts and project automation experts have extensive experience in defining operational data management platforms that make the best use of available data sets uncovering the greatest opportunities for optimization and production efficiency.

Automation and Autogenous Operation

Today, a fully automated mine site is closer to reality than ever before. Remotely operated and autonomous mining equipment can keep human operators away from hazards, potentially reducing or eliminating health and safety risks.

The clear benefits of improved safety, efficiency and environmental outcomes need to be weighed against the significant costs of the latest innovations. Fluor leverages its extensive experience in assessing technology maturity, and its comprehensive historical project cost database, to analyze the options. This enables Fluor to support owners in determining the extent of automation that will yield the best business outcome at a specific mining operation.

Learn more about Fluor's offerings for the mining industry.