Anglo Platinum is hoping that both safety and production can be improved by the latest laser scanning technology that measures pit walls and mined materials.

Supplied by 3D Laser Mapping, the technology will be used during the expansion of the Rustenburg Mine and it will create a safer environment for employees.

Frans Benade, section surveyor, told Directions Magazine that the firm wanted to reduce risk of injury to its employees and equipment.

He hoped this would result in "higher production due to decreased downtime and reduced resources for ongoing safety monitoring".

The system, which performs around the clock, detects any surface movement or slope changes allowing workers to be evacuated and equipment to be salvaged as soon as possible.

Mr Benade said the technology had showed excellent results which had prompted the investment.

The first of the new systems will be used to monitor the Eastern Wall of the Open Pit of the PPRust project.



Source:

3D Laser Mapping Supports Anglo Platinum Growth, 17/07/08
http://www.directionsmag.com/press.releases/index.php?duty=Show&id=23778&trv=1