Holcim UK has hosted a trial of autonomous digging at its Lee Moor sand and gravel quarry near Plymouth.
A 23-tonne Develon crawler excavator fitted with autonomous technology from Swiss start-up Gravis Robotics was put through its paces for two days.
Once set-up and testing had taken place the machine was tasked with feeding a hopper of a screener with sand and gravel with a target of performing 100 cycles per hour. During two-day testing the machine was able to average 133 cycles an hour, shifting 1,500 tonnes of material daily, with a 99% accuracy and minimal spillage.
Paul Mitchinson, head of mobile plant for Holcim UK, said: “We were excited to be able to take part in the trial at one of our quarries and see how autonomous technology could work and be successfully integrated into day-to-day operations.
“The introduction of this type of technology in our industry could lead to greater productivity through increased output and consistency, improved safety on site and improved sustainability through optimising performance of large plant equipment.
“As a company we are continuously seeking to innovate and to improve our ways of working in order to enhance productivity. This includes exploring how artificial intelligence can support what we do to help us be more efficient.”
Following the trial a three-way memorandum of understanding was agreed between Holcim, Hyundai Xitesolutions (Develon) and Gravis Robotics at the Bauma trade fair event in Munich. The strategic partnership aims to develop the commercialisation of autonomous technology designed to enhance productivity, improve safety in quarry operations and within confined materials handling.
