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Pre-Spotting & Double-Sided Loading

Minimize truck spot times to increase shovel utilization for higher mine production

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Overview

Pre-spotting and double-sided loading are techniques known to improve wheel cycle loader times, throughput and reduce costs in open-pit mining. Many mines abandon this proven methodology when safety questions are asked. In reality, most open pit mines can use this technique safely with effective collaboration between departments. In some cases, this means reevaluating pit design (ramps, benches, sequencing, lighting) followed by extensive coaching and mentoring in the field.

Coordinating the movements of multiple trucks, shovels, and loading equipment to ensure efficient pre-spotting and double-sided loading can be complex, requiring precise scheduling and communication between operators to prevent congestion and delays.

When these techniques are executed effectively, companies stand to gain significant improvements in reducing costs, increased mine productivity, and optimized mine equipment utilization.

Key Client Challenges

How do we use up-to-date mine topography, traffic patterns and operational data to determine the optimal pre-spotting locations for trucks on-site?

How can we improve our communication and coordination between loading equipment and trucks to successfully carry out pre-spotting or double-sided loading?

What are the best practices for minimizing risks associated with close interaction between our heavy equipment and vehicles during pre-spotting and double-sided loading?

How YCP Unison Can Help

Skilled operators are needed to efficiently carry out pre-spotting and double-sided loading. Inexperienced operators may struggle with positioning trucks correctly or coordinating their movements effectively. Managing traffic flow within the mine, especially in congested areas, is essential to prevent bottlenecks and delays, as are proper road design and traffic management protocols.

Our experts at YCP Unison can work with your teams to help foster better communication between operators, dispatchers, and other personnel – a vital element in ensuring trucks are pre-spotted and loaded safely. Our focus in this area is to integrate fleet management systems and processes for efficient real-time tracking, monitoring, and decision-making.