Process Dynamics: automating the processing of tailings increases bottom line for mine
December 2013System Integration & Control Systems Design
Tailings dumps and tailings dams or ponds are a common site in South Africa. In an effort to reduce their environmental impact and with the added benefit of additional downstream revenue, mines have increasingly moved towards the reclamation of minerals and metals from the tailings and the resultant rehabilitation of the landscape.
A large mining operation in Mpumalanga realised that in order to maximise the benefits from reworking its tailings in a brand new processing plant, it would need to implement a high-tech control system to automate the sophisticated technology used to process the tailings. The company subsequently issued a tender for the design, supply and installation of a process control design that would incorporate a PLC system and the requisite software.
System integrators, Process Dynamics, were awarded the contract to supply, install and commission a Siemens Simatic S7-300 and Wonderware control software for the new tailings plant. The choice of elements used was prescribed by the mining house due to its standardisation on the system.
Kobus van Niekerk, managing director of Process Dynamics, said that the company received the contract due to its experience in the process control field within a number of industry sectors. “The choice of the Simatic 300 series was perfect for this project. While the 400 series would be required in many other projects, the functionality of the 300 series was more than ample for its requirements in this specific instance.”
The contract was awarded in mid-2012 with implementation of the system taking place over a two-month period, which commenced in February 2013. After commissioning the system, the Process Dynamics team spent a week training the plant’s operational team. “To date we have had only compliments from the mining house, who are completely satisfied with the high degree of automation provided by the system. It is achieving all the pre-specified goals and there has been absolutely no downtime,” said van Niekerk.
“We would have preferred to have more flexibility in the choice of system used in the project. In any project it is advisable to appoint a common source for hardware and software, such as a systems integration company. Unfortunately, in instances where the client chooses to source third-party systems and software directly from a number of sources, cognisance is not always given to the integration capabilities of each of the various elements. A reputable systems integration company is able to design, engineer and implement the best practice solution for each individual application to ensure maximised productivity and return on investment, with minimal downtime.”
The state of the SI industry remains strong and is expanding
System Integration & Control Systems Design
The system integration (SI) industry is expanding with the adoption of AI, automation and data sharing, allowing companies to improve operational efficiency and competitiveness across diverse sectors.
Read more...The symbiotic relationship between OEMs and SIs Schneider Electric South Africa
Editor's Choice System Integration & Control Systems Design
While businesses tend to turn directly to original equipment manufacturers OEMs or vendors when embarking on IT projects, the role of the SI as a key facilitator and partner cannot be overstated.
Read more...Flexible and precise dispensing technology Beckhoff Automation
System Integration & Control Systems Design
The Scheugenpflug ProcessModule axis system forms the basis of Atlas Copco’s dispensing and screwing cells and a flexible integration platform for general contractors and machine builders. Precise process sequences are ensured by TwinCAT CNC and servo drive technology from Beckhoff.
Read more...The time is now for systems integrators
Editor's Choice System Integration & Control Systems Design
Integrators combine sophistication regarding technology innovation with practical, hands-on experience. Collaborating with systems integrators is the means to significant productivity improvement, powered by the convergence of automation and information and operations technology.
Read more...System integrators are a diverse market
Editor's Choice System Integration & Control Systems Design
System integrators (SIs) combine expertise on emergent technologies with real world experience. Working with SIs, it’s inevitable that at some point someone will say, “We’re not a typical SI.” And in many ways, it’s true. SIs come in all shapes and sizes.
Read more...Avoiding the pitfalls of PLC and scada control system integration Iritron
System Integration & Control Systems Design
Upgrading your control system by integrating PLCs with scada systems should be a simple seamless process. Regrettably, the industry is plagued with control system integration and upgrade myths and misconceptions that can lead to liability issues, project delays, cost overruns and decreased plant performance.
Read more...EtherCAT measurement terminals for vehicle development at Mercedes-Benz Beckhoff Automation
System Integration & Control Systems Design
At the Mercedes Technology Centre plant in Sindelfingen, Germany, car axles are examined with the highest precision on four test benches, in parallel with road tests and simulations. All data is acquired using PC-based control from Beckhoff.
Read more...Loop signature 23: Tuning Part 2.
Editor's Choice System Integration & Control Systems Design
It is my opinion that most tuning methods are very crude. They do of course also offer a starting point for tuning if one is not fortunate enough to have a sophisticated tuning package like a Protuner around.
Read more...PIC microcontrollers with integrated FPGA features in TME
System Integration & Control Systems Design
The new PIC16F131xx microcontrollers in TME’s offering from Microchip are ideal for the evolving and miniaturising electronic equipment market, offering efficient power management and predictable response times for controllers.
Read more...Five smart machine trends you need to know Adroit Technologies
System Integration & Control Systems Design
The last ten years have brought about dramatic advances in technologies that OEMs had never realised would affect their designs or the saleability of their machines, much less impact business models and profits so dramatically. The following discussion will cover key advancements and recommendations all OEMs should be adopting in their design processes to stay current and competitive.
printer friendly version