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SMART - Surface Mining Association for Research & Technology |
Letter of welcome from Gord Winkel, Chairperson. (Brochure)
SMART is an association of mining companies that meet regularly to coordinate the technology development needed by the mining industry. Since 1995, the member companies have directed research and influenced the manufacturers and suppliers to improve surface mining technology and services. SMART actively supports learning seminars, collaborative research projects, and user groups.
SMART sponsors an ongoing series of Learning Seminars. Each year the seminar tackles a new topic of concern for the industry, from development in large haulage trucks, to wireless communications and information technologies.
SMART also sponsors collaborative research. This is a primary goal of SMART and one of the biggest benefits to members.
SMART has recognized the need for the establishment of a worldwide database that continuously collects mining equipment metrics related to productivity and cost. The data is validated to common definitions and analyzed to provide participating companies with regular reports that allow them to understand their position and resultant opportunities to achieve World Class Performance. The number of participants in this project continues to grow.
Follow this link to the SMART Benchmarking reporting web site, http://benchmarking.smartmines.com. For more information contact Jerry Gauntt at Marston 303-969-8468 or Tom Demorest at 780-790-5092.New projects are considered at regular meetings.
User groups have been formed to tackle specific challenges head-on and develop soilid solutions that can benefit surface mining companies across Canada and North America. These user groups illustrate the effectiveness of collaboration.
Recognizing that there is strength in numbers, this newest SMART initiative provides members the opportunity to network on issues relating to Trucks, Shovels and other Mine Equipment. Operations and Maintenance items are the focus. Meetings are about 2 times per year.For more information, contact Steve Thornton at 780-797-7334
The expanding use of computing and network technology systems in the mining industry on large mining equipment and for mine control systems has been beneficial for productivity improvements. The need to be able to quickly utilize and apply computing and networking technology in the mine has been inhibited. In 2005 this project focused on standards to address and improve the situation. In 2007, a document was released that outlines the criteria, requirements, benefits, and a set of generic guideline specifications regarding hardware and software standards for mining equipment. For more information contact Tim Skinner at 403-607-1390.
This initiative is new for 2009. This group represents the mine operators of SMART and works with the OEMs and OTMs to develop computing, network, and data access system standards for mobile surface mining equipment systems. For more information contact Tim Skinner at 403-607-1390.
Companies involved in surface mining are encouraged to join SMART and
begin reaping the benefit of collective efforts. New participants are always welcome, even
in projects that are currently underway.
Last update: October 30, 2009