Inner Mongolia Welcomes Autonomous Mining Trucks: A New Era Begins

Zakhnuur Coal Company in Inner Mongolia has implemented the region’s first project consisting of 135 extended-range autonomous mining trucks. This initiative aims to enhance operational efficiency, safety, and cost-effectiveness in the challenging geological conditions of the coal site. The trucks have achieved impressive operational metrics, including high efficiency, significant fuel savings, and zero safety incidents since their launch.

On May 10, a significant milestone was achieved in Inner Mongolia as 135 extended-range autonomous mining trucks were delivered to Zakhnuur Coal Company. This event marks the first project in the region featuring unmanned mining trucks exceeding 100 units. Zakhnuur, a subsidiary of State Power Investment Co., plays a crucial role in energy supply for northeastern China, boasting an approved annual coal production capacity of 18 million metric tons along with extensive earth and rock stripping capabilities.

The Zakhnuur coal site, situated at a high altitude, presents difficult geological challenges due to its soft and water-rich rock formations. The company is keen on improving safety, efficiency, and cost-effectiveness in mining operations, which has propelled its pursuit of intelligent, unmanned mining solutions.

In early 2024, Zakhnuur took a step further by collaborating with three leading industry firms, including EACON. This partnership initiated a pilot project that utilized 33 autonomous trucks. Up to this point, the autonomous fleet has covered over 770,000 kilometers and managed more than 5.25 million cubic meters of material. These trucks can operate at speeds reaching 35 kilometers per hour while achieving up to 90 percent of the efficiency typically provided by human workers.

Furthermore, these autonomous trucks have made substantial strides in sustainability, reducing fuel consumption by approximately 20 to 30 percent. Notably, the fleet has reported an impressive safety record with zero incidents since commencement of operations. This venture not only represents technological advancement in mining but also reflects efforts toward enhancing safety and operational performance in a challenging environment.

The deployment of 135 autonomous extended-range mining trucks at Zakhnuur Coal Company signifies a pioneering shift toward unmanned mining operations in Inner Mongolia. The collaboration with industry leaders and the successful operation of these trucks not only enhances efficiency and safety but also aligns with sustainability goals, showcasing the potential for automation in challenging mining environments. This initiative is a key development in China’s mining sector, marking a move towards innovation and smart mining practices.

Original Source: www.chinadaily.com.cn