Resources Technology Showcase 2019: Untapped big data key to WA’s mining future, says Rio Tinto’s Ivan Vella

The WA resource industry’s technology revolution will be powered by big autonomous machines, satellites, virtual reality and highly skilled controllers working thousands of kilometres off site in air-conditioned remote operations centres.

But Rio Tinto’s Ivan Vella — the man already in charge of the world’s biggest robot — believes their success will all hinge on the “untapped” potential of data analytics.

Mr Vella, who runs rail, port and core services at Rio’s iron ore division, has overseen the roll-out of the mining giant’s $1.3 billion AutoHaul driverless train program in the Pilbara.

Developed in partnership with Hitachi Rail, Calibre, New York Air Brake and Wabtec, it now has about 200 locomotives on more than 1700km of track transporting ore from 16 mines to four port terminals.

“The future of mining is in data analytics: without a doubt, it is the greatest untapped enabler and disrupter available to our industry,” he said.

“Our data science team is swimming in an ocean of data, data that is critical to ensuring the efficiency and ongoing health of our autonomous systems.

RTS2019: See the full program, list of keynote speakers and the experts taking part in panel sessions.

“For AutoHaul, we have sensors and systems that allow the team to tell us when maintenance is next required, data can highlight track wear and tear, and make adjustments on the fly as needed.

“We know exactly where every train is, how full it is, how fast it’s going, what time to expect it at the port, and what resources we will need when it gets there. Even a small improvement in efficiency or productivity in each AutoHaul trip can make a big difference.”

After completing the rail network upgrades late last year, Rio said the next phase of automation will be for its trains, trucks, and drilling systems “to talk to each other”.

Mr Vella will share his experience of the AutoHaul roll-out as a keynote speakers at the Resources Technology Showcase 2019 in Perth on November 27 and 28.

Chief executives, managing directors and chief technology officers from fellow resource powerhouses such as BHP, Shell, Fortescue Metals Group, Woodside and INPEX will also reveal their plans to transform their operations.

RTS2019: Secure your delegate passes

Mr Vella said extracting full value from technology required time and considerable organisational change but getting the structure right could help the industry realise the full potential of an optimised production system.

“Our industry is at the beginning of an incredible era and the opportunities that lie ahead are truly amazing,” he said.

“We’ve already achieved great things through automation and data analytics as an industry, but the next big thing is still on its way.

“These future advances will change the way we operate, they will change business models and change supply chains and partnerships.”

Rio is already tipping the $2.6 billion Koodaideri replacement iron ore mine, 100km from Newman, will be its most technologically advanced Pilbara operation. Caterpillar equipment supplier WestTrac has already secured a $285 million deal to deliver 20 autonomous 793F trucks and four robotic blast drills, along with other machinery.

Mr Vella said Rio was also ensuring a local workforce was on hand to run the network into the future and had partnered with WA Government and South Metropolitan TAFE to develop Australia’s first nationally recognised qualifications in automation.

RTS2019 at the Perth Convention and Exhibition Centre will also host a free grand exhibition alongside the conference, giving visitors a first-hand look at the technology already being used to build mining, oil and gas projects in WA.

For the full program of speakers and panels, or to register, go to rtsperth.com.au