As well as deploying renewable technologies as an alternative main power supply, many mine operators are looking at the benefits of fuel switching on production machinery.
In this speaker Q&A Mike Shuman, Manager of Maintenance at Kirkland Lake Gold discusses their use of alternative fuels.
Q: What are some of the key benefits of switching to a biofuel blend for your underground operations?
A: The main one is the reduction of air contamination. The biodiesel fuel generates less visible smoke, less CO, less NOx content and less total carbon, which improves notably the mine air quality and the long-term sustainability of the projects.
Q: What other successes have you had in integrating new technologies for your mobile scoops and haulage trucks?
A: We have had great results from battery powered mobile units. This kind of equipment eliminates the diesel emissions completely, improving air quality and reducing mine development capital and lead time.
Q: What do you think are some of the misconceptions about the way mines think and use energy?
A: Often, energy use is thought of as an operational cost, so the only options are whether to turn a load on or off, or perhaps when to schedule the batch. The option of changing the machine or process is not frequently considered as it is a more complex question, but it may be the only way to control the cost.
Q: What are you looking forward to at this year’s Energy and Mines Toronto Summit on October 22-23
A: I’m looking forward to learning about alternatives ways to reduce the cost of the energy. Additionally, I’d like to hear about cost escalation risk improvement options that are specifically relevant to mines in Northern Ontario, our area of operations.
Mike Shuman is the Manager of Maintenance for Kirkland Lake Gold, an operating and exploration gold in Kirkland Lake, Ontario which is located in the Lower Abitibi Greenstone belt innortheastern Ontario. The Company owns five former high grade mines, producing 22 million ounces of gold with an average grade of 15.1 grams per tonne.
Shuman will share his thoughts and ideas about powering underground equipment with biodiesel and integrating battery technology at the 3rd annual Energy and Mines Toronto Summit on October 22-23.