3D Laser Mapping improves safety at Anglo Platinum

The 3D Laser Mapping Solution uses laser technology to continuously capture highly accurate slope measurements and a sophisticated software package to automatically analyse the results.The 3D Laser Mapping solution has already reduced the risk of injury to personnel, property and equipment, increased production and delivered real cost savings. Anglo Platinum is the world's largest primary producer of platinum, with a production target of 2.9 million ounces of refined platinum in 2006. Safety is a primary concern for the company whose operation comprises of 7 mines, 3 smelters, a base metals and a precious metals refinery. "Traditionally we have used conventional survey methods to monitor slope stability of open pit slopes. This limited the size and number of locations we could survey and the frequency of survey," said Frans Benadé, Section Surveyor. "The combination of highly accurate laser scanning units and software specifically engineered for this application enables us to cover a larger area at more frequent intervals." Anglo Platinum is currently operating two Riegl LPM-2K Laser Scanners supplied by 3D Laser Mapping. These units are specifically designed for the automatic and manual long range profiling of surfaces, operating at distances up to 2,500 metres with an accuracy of 50 millimetres. The systems perform continuous, 24/7, remote scanning at locations determined by Anglo Platinum's Geotechnical Rock Engineering team collecting hundreds of point measurements daily. The point cloud data collected by the laser scanners is automatically analysed using SiteMonitor software from 3D Laser Mapping. By comparing readings against base measurements the software can detect surface movement or slope deformations."3D Laser Mapping has delivered a safe, accurate yet easy to use solution," continued Benadé. "This has significantly reduced the risk of injury to personnel, property and equipment, enabled higher production due to decreased downtime and reduced the resources required for ongoing safety monitoring." 3D Laser Mapping is a UK based specialist in laser scanning solutions and the Riegl Premier Distributor for the UK, Ireland and sub-Saharan Africa. 3D Laser Mapping integrate laser scanner hardware systems with their own software and peripherals to create robust solutions for mapping, mining and manufacturing to name just a few.

Author: Dr Graham Hunter

Bio.: 3D Laser Mapping Ltd,

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