AngloGold Ashanti Australia trials Sandvik's battery-electric mining truck; bauxite sector must embrace sustainable technology

The Sunrise Dam gold mine in Western Australia, operated by AngloGold Ashanti, is creating a historic moment by conducting the inaugural trial of the Sandvik TH665B. This mining truck is noteworthy for being the world's largest battery-electric vehicle designed for underground mining.

The revolutionary truck boasts an electric driveline that delivers an impressive 630kW (858hp) power output, paired with a significant 354kWh lithium-iron phosphate (LiFePO4 or LFP) battery.

Notably, this prototype battery-electric vehicle (BEV) can transport a substantial maximum payload of 65,000kg. Its zero emissions and 80 per cent reduction in heat generation have the potential to transform underground mining operations. The Sadvik TH665B is showcased in action at the Sunrise Dam gold mine.

Andrew Dawson, the Business Line Manager overseeing Load and Haul operations at Sandvik, emphasized the notable advantages of Sandvik Battery Electric Vehicles (BEVs), specifically focusing on their positive influence on operator well-being and safety.

He said, "There are major benefits from Sandvik BEVs for operator health and safety thanks to reduced diesel particulates, less noise and vibration, and a reduction in heat generation."

Moreover, the Sandvik TH665B is anticipated to achieve speeds up to 25 per cent higher on a 1:7 incline than traditional diesel trucks.

The trial for the Sandvik TH665B started on September 14, initiating a pioneering initiative through a three-party agreement among AngloGold Ashanti, the mine's proprietor, Barminco, the hard rock underground contract miner, and Sandvik.

The Sandvik TH665B has a patented self-swapping battery system, one of its most notable features. Andrew Dawson explained, "It also allows the operator to stay in the cabin during the process, and there's no need for major infrastructure like overhead cranes."

A shared dedication to decarbonization unites all stakeholders in the trial. Darren Kwok, who serves as the Head of Electrification and Technology for Perenti, the ASX-listed parent company of Barminco, underscored the significance of Battery Electric Vehicles (BEVs) such as the Sandvik TH665B in shaping the future of electric mining and advancing decarbonization efforts.

The gold industry has rapidly embraced sustainability as a fundamental cornerstone, demonstrating a dedication to conscientious resource extraction and the safeguarding of natural ecosystems for the well-being of future generations.

Bauxite mining is the third most prominent global mining activity, trailing only coal and iron ore. Australia, holding the title of the world's largest bauxite producer, now faces a critical juncture where the bauxite mining sector must embrace and apply sustainable technologies to mitigate pollution stemming from the transportation process. Many bauxite mines worldwide rely on diesel trucks and diesel-powered freight trains to transport the valuable aluminium ore to ports for eventual shipment to its destination. Addressing the environmental impact of this transportation infrastructure is imperative for the industry's long-term sustainability. Bauxite is commonly extracted through open-cast mining and is typically located near the Earth's surface. The extraction processes may exhibit slight variations depending on the specific geographical location.

The bauxite mining sector is actively strategising for a sustainable future, leveraging technological advancements with significant support. AL Circle's industry-focused report, titled "Sustainability in the Global Aluminium Industry," delves into the industry's commitment to ecological practices and highlights technology's pivotal role in achieving these objectives.

The global mining and metal giant Rio Tinto has revealed plans to transition its Kennecott copper operation in Utah to use renewable diesel exclusively, phasing out all fossil diesel consumption by 2024.