The mining sector continually seeks innovative solutions to improve efficiency, productivity and profitability, and the use of performance-based standards (PBS) vehicles is noted as a key factor in advancing efficiency, safety and sustainability in the sector.

Offering the advantages of advanced engineering and customisable designs, PBS vehicles are engineered to address the demands of key mineral sectors, including copper, lithium, heavy mineral sands and uranium.

"The advantages of PBS vehicles are undeniable," says Unitrans COO: mining division John Kettlewell. "Their success lies in matching the right vehicle to the right operation. Each vehicle is designed to perform tasks with maximum productivity, safety and sustainability. This tailored approach ensures the specific requirements of each mineral are met, enabling optimised payload capacities."

Unitrans operates a fleet of over 50 registered PBS vehicles, serving the petroleum, mining and agricultural sectors.

"Bulk materials handling in mining is inherently complex, with challenges often tied to the physical and operational demands of moving massive quantities of materials efficiently and safely," says Kettlewell.

PBS vehicles can transport up to 140 t, enhancing payload capacity. This capability helps reduce trips, alleviates congestion at loading and offloading areas and lowers carbon footprints. By optimising vehicle configurations and achieving higher payloads, Unitrans says it has achieved over 20% reduction in fuel consumption per tonne hauled and a 54% decrease in the number of vehicles required for a mining operations customer.

PBS vehicles can also help improve safety, with studies showing a lower crash involvement rate per kilometre travelled than conventional trucks. Enhanced stability, manoeuvrability and braking systems make the vehicles well-suited for navigating the challenging terrains of mining operations.

Designed to minimise road wear per tonne-kilometre, PBS vehicles offer increased gross-combination mass and cubic capacity. These innovations help enhance productivity while lowering transport costs and fostering a more sustainable supply chain.

"While transitioning to PBS vehicles involves upfront investments and specialised training, the long-term benefits far outweigh these challenges," says Kettlewell. "These vehicles have transformed transportation efficiency, safety and environmental impact, aligning perfectly with the evolving demands of the mining sector."