AngloGold Ashanti has brought online a first-of-its-kind remote operations centre As-A-Service programme for its Iduapriem mine in Tarkwa, Ghana, in collaboration with the technology’s developer, Ramjack Technology Solutions.
The addition of the remote operations facility is to improve the mine’s overall equipment effectiveness (OEE), the two said. Ramjack’s remote centre, or rROC, is in Johannesburg and will use networked organisation and real-time data generated by Iduapriem’s existing fleet management system.
AngloGold officials said the programme was designed specifically to target its OEE by incorporating a process and data-driven knowledge transfer model, including both on-site and remote expert services to the mine. That includes 24/7 data analysis and operational support.
“Effective use of real-time production and safety systems is a critical component to operational excellence in the mining industry,” added Mike Jackson, president and CEO of Ramjack.
“Having worked with the forward-thinking team at AGA for many years, we’re honoured to help bring this next level of efficiency to Iduapriem, and we look forward to continued collaboration with AGA towards achieving optimal performance from their technology solutions.”
Ramjack reports that Iduapriem has experienced “notable improvements” in the mine’s availability, utilisation and operational efficiency since initially implementing the programme three months ago.
“Further improvements are anticipated as additional insights and system optimisation opportunities become available,” the company said.
AngloGold Ashanti is the third largest gold producer globally. In Ghana, AngloGold Ashanti operates the Obuasi and Iduapriem mines located in the Ashanti and Western regions, respectively.
Iduapriem, a multiple open-pit operation, is wholly owned by the miner and employs 1,774. Its mineral resource is estimated at 6.68 million ounces of gold.
Sources: Ramjack Technology Solutions and AngloGold Ashanti