INDUSTRY.co.id - Jakarta, Every day, almost 100,000 tons of mining ore moves towards the Batu Hijau mining processing plant operated by PT Amman Mineral Nusa Tenggara (AMMAN). Behind the large volume of material, there is a challenge that is no less important: ensuring that every ton of ore can be processed safely, smoothly, and efficiently.
In the processing area, Victor, Achmad, and the AMMAN Metallurgy team have a crucial role in maintaining the smooth running of the process. One of their main focuses is to monitor the flow of material moving through the conveyor to the SAG Mill, a large-capacity grinding machine that is the initial stage in the process of downsizing rocks before entering the mineral separation stage.
However, the material journey to SAG Mill does not always go smoothly. Occasionally, extreme-sized objects (oversize objects) or non-rock foreign materials can be carried away from the mining area. The existence of these materials has the potential to disrupt the flow of ore and affect the stability of the processing process if not detected early.
Departing from these needs, the AMMAN Metallurgy team is looking for ways to improve the ability to monitor materials more accurately. Previously, surveillance systems relied on two-dimensional (2D) cameras that had assisted the monitoring process. However, the system has limitations in distinguishing objects under certain lighting conditions or when the material has a similar color and texture.
To answer these challenges, AMMAN developed the application of 3D Particle Size Measurement (3DPM) technology based on laser triangulation. This technology is placed on the conveyor line before the material enters SAG mill and works by performing real-time three-dimensional laser scanning.
Through this technology, the system is able to measure the shape, size, and volume of objects more precisely than conventional methods. The resulting information provides a clearer picture of the condition of the material moving towards the plant, so that potential disturbances can be identified early and the operator has sufficient time to take anticipatory steps.
The application of 3DPM not only improves the accuracy of monitoring, but also strengthens the ability of operators to make decisions quickly and accurately. With better visibility of material conditions, the potential for operational disruption can be minimized, while the smooth flow of ore towards the next process is maintained.
The impact is also felt on the consistency of plant operations. More controlled material flow helps keep production rhythms stable while supporting overall processing reliability.
For Victor, this innovation is a reflection of a work culture that continues to encourage solutions from real needs in the field.
"The implementation of 3DPM technology shows how innovation can be born from real needs in the field. We not only adopt new technologies, but also develop them to fit our operational conditions. The result is a process that is more reliable, efficient, and able to support better operational risk management," said Victor.
3DPM innovation is one of AMMAN's steps in utilizing technology to strengthen operational excellence. Through an approach that combines innovation, safety, and efficiency, the company continues to support increasingly modern, safe, and sustainable mining practices.
