Setting a precedent for the continent, Canada’s New Afton mine has become the first in North America to integrate autonomous loaders into its operations.

Sandvik’s 18-ton autonomous loaders have been in operation since mid-November at the New Afton mine, working in a designated test area on the “Lift 1” footwall.

The mine’s operators are now preparing to move the machines to the “C-Zone” and expect to have them in regular service by the beginning of the new year.

They are equipped with several advanced features that enhance production and safety in underground mining operations.

Notably, this marks the first deployment of fully automated, battery-electric loaders in North America.

The introduction of the Toro LH518iB emphasizes the growing role of advanced technologies in improving mining operations, the company said in a post on social media. Sandvik further added that the addition of the new heavy loaders will help New Afton’s operations enhance cycle times at the block cave mine, which is currently the only such operation in Canada. “Their introduction highlights the potential of automation and electrification in mining. This will enable New Afton’s operations to enhance cycle times and reduce heat, noise, and greenhouse gas emissions at Canada’s only block cave mine,” the company noted.

Such developments show that electric equipment is fully capable of moving dirt and extracting materials from the ground. Meanwhile, the increasing demand for nickel, lithium, and phosphates, along with the natural advantages of electrification, is driving the adoption of electric mining machines.

Additionally, a persistent shortage of operators is further fueling the demand for autonomous technology in these machines.

Electric and hydrogen options gaining traction in mining

The factors mentioned are quickly making existing machines obsolete, Electrek writes.

While some companies are exploring converting their current vehicles to electric or hydrogen power, the prevailing trend is towards more frequent purchases of new equipment in the coming years.

Over time, a growing proportion of this new equipment will likely be autonomous.

The International Energy Agency (IEA) projects that mineral demand from electric vehicles (EVs) will grow 30 times between 2020 and 2040. Demand for lithium and nickel is expected to increase by 40 times, while diesel demand is falling faster than anticipated, reaching a 26-year low last quarter.

The remote locations of mines and the repetitive nature of the work also make automation a logical solution. Furthermore, the labor shortage, along with stricter safety regulations and the growing risk of costly lawsuits from workplace injuries, is driving the need for more automation in the mining sector.