Aker Wirth develops new machine for rapid underground mine development

Apr 07, 2010

Aker Wirth has been selected as Rio Tinto’s partner in developing one of two winning tunneling concepts used for underground block cave projects. This selection was based on an extensive R&D program and selection process that considered a range of concepts from several leading equipment manufacturers.

The winning concept is based on the experience and competence of Aker Wirth in underground hard rock mining and tunneling. It combines the flexibility of a roadheader operation with the robustness of a tunnel boring machine. This concept utilises the learnings of the previous version that was developed and tested in the early 1990s. Using the undercutting technology at the core of the concept, the Mobile Tunnel Miner is capable of meeting the challenges set out by Rio Tinto to improve the safety and speed of tunnel construction in underground mining. The Aker Wirth and Rio Tinto team have agreed to share further information on this mining breakthrough at an upcoming mining conference later this year.

The development of Rio Tinto’s projects such as Resolution Copper in Arizona and Oyu Tolgoi in Mongolia will use an underground block cave mining method. This method requires construction of significant underground infrastructure prior to the production of ore. Many years ago in anticipation of this need, Rio Tinto Technology and Innovation began investigating alternative construction methods to further improve both safety and speed of constructing underground block cave infrastructure such as shafts and tunnels.

"We are excited to have this opportunity to work with Rio Tinto and be part of an important development that may change the face of underground mining," said Christoph Kleuters, CEO of Aker Wirth. "This project emphasises our passion for technology and our values with regard to health, safety and environment."

John McGagh, Rio Tinto Head of Innovation, said: "Aker Wirth has a long and successful history of developing innovative tunneling equipment. We value their commitment to be part of the team that has solved the challenge of safe rapid underground construction. The joint Rio Tinto and Aker Wirth team has developed not just a machine but a tunneling system for construction of mining operations that will potentially add significant value to our future operations."


Contact:
Aker Wirth GmbH
Kerstin Richter
Kölner Str. 71-73
41812 Erkelenz
PH.: 02431 83-358
FAX: 02431 83-455
E-Mail: kerstin.richter@akersolutions.com
Internet: www.akersolutions.com/akerwirth

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