Environmental Engineering Reference
In-Depth Information
Chapter 7
Industrial Products for Advanced Control of
Mineral Processing Plants
Aldo Cipriano
Abstract
This chapter begins with some general observations on the strategic im-
portance automation technologies have acquired in the mining business, and then
reviews a series of recently available commercial advanced sensors for grinding and
flotation plants. This is followed by a brief look at developments in advanced con-
trol and the main concepts involved in the solutions offered. A number of tools for
advanced control development are presented and the reported benefits obtained in
real-world applications are noted. The chapter ends with conclusions and a brief
discussion of current tendencies.
7.1 Introduction
In recent years there has been a slow but steady growth in awareness of the con-
tribution automation technologies can make to each of the various processes in the
mining business value chain. Among producers this recognition is manifested by
such trends as the creation of automation or process control management areas or
units within company structures, the adoption of a vision that integrates automation
with information and communication technologies, the strategic status these tech-
nologies have been given, and the formation of technology companies and research
laboratories dedicated to the development of products and systems based on these
technologies oriented specifically towards the mining industry [1].
This increased activity has borne fruit, as is demonstrated by the significant
growth in the quantity of components, products and systems aimed at developing
both basic and advanced automation functions such as those described in Chapter 1
of this volume. For each of these functions, suppliers of instrumentation equipment
and automation and control systems are offering new solutions and commercial al-
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