Harnessing the Energy-Generating Potential of Underground Mine Winders
Rockwell Automation (ROK), RUC Mining, and Energy Power Systems Australia (EPSA) have introduced a regenerative energy storage solution for mine hoists. These hoists act similarly to industrial elevators, requiring minimal energy to lower but substantial energy to raise. The new system collects and reuses energy as the hoist lowers, then powers the ascent, enabling the hoists to operate solely on stored energy. Over 24 months, the system is expected to save approximately 1,427 kilolitres of diesel, reduce CO2 output by 3.85 tonnes, and cut greenhouse gas emissions by 42%. Additional benefits include lower operating costs, reduced plant operating hours and maintenance, and increased power system redundancy.
- Expected savings of approximately 1,427 kilolitres of diesel over 24 months.
- Reduction of 3.85 tonnes of CO2 output over the same period.
- 42% reduction in greenhouse gas emissions from power generation.
- Lower daily operating costs for mining companies.
- Reduced plant operating hours and maintenance requirements.
- Increased redundancy in the power system compared to passive components like load banks.
- No significant negative business aspects identified in the press release.
Insights
The introduction of a regenerative energy storage solution for mine hoists by Rockwell Automation, RUC Mining and Energy Power Systems Australia represents a significant advancement in sustainable mining operations. Traditional mining processes consume large amounts of energy, particularly in the elevation of heavy loads from mine shafts. The innovative approach described here not only minimizes energy consumption but also effectively utilizes the energy generated during the lowering phase. This maximizes efficiency and reduces environmental impact by cutting down on diesel usage and CO2 emissions. The projected savings over 24 months include a reduction of approximately
This solution aligns with global sustainability goals, particularly in industries with high energy demand. It also enhances the resilience and efficiency of mining operations, potentially setting a new industry standard for energy management. The approach taken here exemplifies how innovative thinking can transform traditional industries, contributing to long-term environmental benefits and cost savings.
From a financial perspective, Rockwell Automation's introduction of the regenerative energy storage solution offers notable economic benefits. The reduction in diesel fuel usage and maintenance requirements translates to lower operational costs for mining companies. This innovation not only improves the bottom line by decreasing daily operating expenses but also offers long-term cost predictability and stability. For investors, the increased efficiency and reduced operational costs can enhance the overall profitability of mining operations, which may positively impact stock performance.
Moreover, the alignment with ESG (Environmental, Social and Governance) criteria can attract ESG-focused investors. Companies that successfully implement and demonstrate sustainability initiatives often enjoy favorable investor sentiment and potentially higher valuations. While immediate financial returns may vary, the long-term outlook suggests a positive trend for stakeholders, driven by operational savings and improved environmental compliance.
NORTHAMPTON, MA / ACCESSWIRE / May 16, 2024 / For mining companies, enhancing sustainability can mean undertaking net-new projects. But more often, it means rethinking existing processes.
Rockwell Automation (NYSE:ROK), RUC Mining, and Energy Power Systems Australia (EPSA) have introduced an innovative regenerative energy storage solution for mine hoists which operate much like industrial elevators that lower equipment into a mine shaft and lift minerals out.
It takes little energy to lower a mine hoist. However, raising it up requires a lot of energy. RUC Mining used Rockwell regenerative drives to develop a solution that collects energy as the mine hoist lowers and then reuses that energy to power the trip back up. The hoists run solely on their own stored energy.
Sustainability benefits
Over 24 months, sustainability savings are predicted to be:
- Approximately 1,427 kilolitres of diesel
- A reduction of 3.85 tonnes of CO2 output
- A
42% reduction in greenhouse gas emissions from power generation
"In addition to these strong sustainability benefits, the regenerative energy storage solution also reduces daily operating costs, reduces plant operating hours and maintenance requirements, and provides an additional level of redundancy to the power system that was not available in passive components such as load banks," said Greg Bell, RUC electrical manager.
Learn more about the world's first regenerative energy storage solution for underground mine winders-allowing these machines to run totally on their own stored energy.
View additional multimedia and more ESG storytelling from Rockwell Automation on 3blmedia.com.
Contact Info:
Spokesperson: Rockwell Automation
Website: https://www.3blmedia.com/profiles/rockwell-automation
Email: info@3blmedia.com
SOURCE: Rockwell Automation
View the original press release on accesswire.com
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