Development of a low-cost alternative for the monitoring of the ore hauling production indicators in small-scale mining

Abstract

Small and medium-sized mining represent an important part of a country's mineral economy. These companies, although substantial and numerous, have low investment potential in their development through new technologies. One of the problems small and medium mining companies face is the ore hauling production monitoring. This operation alone can constitute as much as 60% of the mining operating cost, due to intense fuel and tires consumption, and represents more than a half of the greenhouse gas emission in a quarry. Aiming at this problem, this article purposes to answer the following question: Is it possible to monitor the production of the ore hauling in small mining with a low-cost system? The results showed that yes, it is possible, using off-the-shelf solutions, regular office software and low use of labor. The results were validated in a quarry located in the State of São Paulo, where a US$ 490 system presented consistent results, improvements in fuel consumption and benefits to the environment.