George Fisher Mine leads the way in underground automation
The introduction of the AutoMine® system in 2020 marked the start of George Fisher Mine’s (GFM) underground automation journey in partnership with Sandvik. This journey continues today with the recent addition of automated trucks to GFM’s mobile fleet.
AutoMine® enables underground mining equipment to be operated remotely from the surface, allowing operators to work safely and comfortably from a control room away from the hazards of the underground environment.
Manfred Drutschmann, Production Superintendent at GFM, said safety is always the top priority.
“Separating our workers from mobile equipment has been a huge step towards increasing the safety and security of employees by reducing the exposure to unpredictable environments.”
Manfred added that the introduction of automated technology has also boosted operational efficiency and productivity.
Three Sandvik Toro® TH663i trucks equipped with AutoMine® were recently introduced to GFM’s underground automated fleet.
“Automated trucks allow material to be hauled faster, without operator shift change delays, helping optimise overall production.”
The automation rollout began in 2020 with five Toro® LH517 automated loaders at GFM’s underground operation. This number has since doubled, and in a first for Australia, three Sandvik Toro® trucks equipped with AutoMine® were added to the fleet in 2024.
GFM recently trialled Sandvik’s AutoLoad 2.0 feature, where loaders and trucks operate side by side in complete cycles, loading and tramming material without human intervention. This trial has further streamlined operations, demonstrating the potential for fully autonomous workflows underground.
AutoMine® allows underground mining equipment to be operated remotely from the surface where operators can work in the comfort and safety of a remote control room.
Sandvik Technical Support Manager for Automation Tommi Rautio says the success George Fisher Mine is enjoying with AutoMine® is triggering widespread interest across the wider industry.
“We’re proud to continue our partnership with George Fisher Mine to explore new opportunities as automation technologies emerge,” adds Tommi.
With these advancements, George Fisher Mine is not only improving safety and efficiency but also leading the way in underground mining automation.