Investigate the effectiveness of the Smart Rail Measuring System at Tumela Mine 15 East Shaft

The measurement of rock tonnages in underground hard rock mines has traditionally been conducted using conventional manual methods. These results are incorrect and management decisions are made on this incorrect information and employees are paid bonuses on the incorrect tonnage figures. New technologies now exist which offer a potentially more accurate method to obtain this information in real time. These techniques include the smart rail system currently being used at Tumela Mine 15 East Shaft. This study will compare the smart rail system against the traditional manual method of tonnage measurement. The study is to determine the effectiveness of the smart rail system on the basis of reliability, effective production management and ease of use by comparing the system with the traditional way of tonnage measurement. The results of the assessment could be used to make a decision to eliminate the manual system of tonnage measurement at Tumela Mine 15 East Shaft if they can be seen to be fit-for-purpose and more accurate. Keywords: Tonnage measurement, Smart rail, manual system, production management .