3D Laser Mapping improves safety at gold mine

04 September 2008, 12:02pm

AngloGold Ashanti, one of the world’s leading gold producers, has introduced an advanced laser scanning system to improve safety at the Geita Goldmine in Tanzania. Supplied by UK based 3D Laser Mapping, the system includes a long range laser scanning unit, integrated digital camera and sophisticated operating software, which is being used to continuously monitor an area of the mine that has been prone to failure. The system, which can capture centimetre accurate measurements at distances of up to 2,500 metres, provides twenty-four seven collection and analysis, giving early warning of movements in the mine wall allowing managers to take preventative action.

AngloGold Ashanti produced 5.5 million ounces of gold in 2007 - an estimated 7% of global production - making it the third largest producer in the world. The Geita Goldmine began production in 2000 and is the largest of Anglo Gold Ashanti’s eight open-pit mines in Africa and is the group’s only operation Tanzania. In 2007 Geita produced 327,000 ounces of gold, equivalent to 6% of the group’s total production.

“Before using the 3D Laser Mapping system we relied on conventional prism monitoring and Slope Stability Radar,” commented Sean Jefferys, Chief Mine Surveyor. “Operating from a permanent, secure location and at a safe distance the laser scanning system gives us comprehensive, continuous monitoring of the active mining area for the duration of mining. The solution is reliable, economical and effective, improving the safety of personnel and equipment and minimising the impact of failures on our operations.”

The laser scanning system supplied by 3D Laser Mapping includes a Riegl LPM-2k long range laser scanner, which can capture up to four point measurements per second, to an accuracy of 50mm and at a range of up to 2,500 metres plus an integrated high resolution digital camera. The data captured is analysed using 3D Laser Mapping’s SiteMonitor analysis software, which compares measurements over time, providing early warning of movements greater than 50mm and therefore potential failures in the active mining area that may impact on production, cause damage to equipment or even injury to personnel.

3D Laser Mapping is a specialist in laser scanning solutions, the Riegl Premier Distributor for the UK, Ireland and sub-Saharan Africa and the leading distributor of TerraScan software. 3D Laser Mapping integrates laser scanner hardware systems with their own software and peripherals to create robust solutions for sectors such as mapping, mining and manufacturing.

Contact: Dr Graham Hunter, 3D Laser Mapping Ltd, graham@3dlasermapping.com
tel: +44 (0) 870 442 9400, www.3dlasermapping.com

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