Komatsu announce the deployment of an unprecedented 41 new model Komatsu 930E-5 ultra-class haul trucks, made autonomous ready, at BHP's new South Flank iron ore mine in the Pilbara.
“Komatsu focuses on autonomous technology driven job creation, with focus on safety, diversity, upskilling and an innovative flexible work force that marries our people’s needs with business goals. This is our blueprint for the future,” Komatsu Australia CEO and Managing Director Sean Taylor says.
Komatsu Australia Executive General Manager – Mining Leo Kaloglou says it was Komatsu Australia who 20 years ago spearheaded the world first automation of mining equipment, which is now known to the industry as Autonomous Haulage Systems (AHS).
“Komatsu has 250 AHS trucks deployed and 180 operating now globally across three continents, across nine mine sites, and recently became the first autonomous truck qualified to operate on private long-term evolution (LTE) mobile broadband technology in commercial operations.
“The operation of FrontRunner AHS technology has been tested across three different commodities in three of the harshest and most extreme environments in the world; in ambient temperatures of minus 45 degrees, in temperatures higher than 40 degrees and finally at extreme altitude.
“With over 2 billion tonnes of material moved autonomously- more than all other commercial mining autonomous haulage systems- with zero resulting injuries.”
With the launch of Komatsu’s new Centre of Excellence for Autonomous Haulage Systems in April 2019 in Tucson USA, Komatsu is committed to innovation, training and people power.
“We invest time and resources into ensuring forward thinking qualifications are available for our workforce of the future. Qualifications relating to; automation, technology, operations and leadership to name a few,” Komatsu Australia Executive General Manager – People and Strategy Colin Shaw says.
“Komatsu are also committed to employing local Western Australian workers to support the workforce needs of Komatsu’s fleet for the BHP South Flank mine site.”
Technicians, apprentices, mechanics, electricians and boiler maker welders plus more roles will be recruited. This will add job opportunities for the local Western Australian workforce in both full time and part time capacities.