The implementation of an automated bulk materials handling system – the Railveyor system, at Canada-based gold major Agnico Eagle Mines’ (AEMs’) Goldex Mining Complex in Val-d’Or, Quebec, Canada, in 2017, has achieved a 39% reduction in mine-wide emissions, driving the company closer towards achieving net zero carbon emissions by 2050.

The Railveyor system incorporates rail-mounted cars on a conveyor-like system to haul materials, and is powered using electricity and drive stations at different points in the network.

AEM integrated the Railveyor system following it being faced with logistical challenges owing to its deeper zones and low-grade ore, with the Railveyor replacing traditional diesel truck haulage with an advanced all-electric solution.

"Goldex Railveyor has been optimised since 2017, resulting in strong production in recent years,” states Goldex maintenance superintendent Christian Lessard.

He adds that the system integrates the latest technologies such as wireless long-term evolution networks and AI, operating in line with theoretical energy consumption models.

“The stability and predictability of electrical energy costs, as opposed to fossil fuels, further contribute to the overall benefits,” says Lessard.

Further, a White Paper recently published by Railveyor and AEM details the system's influence on reducing operational costs, enhancing safety, and reducing greenhouse-gas emissions.

The system's energy efficiency was also validated by a study from mining research company NRCan-CanmetMINING, confirming that the Railveyor operates within 6% of its expected energy consumption.

Railveyor’s low operational costs result in a reduction of operating expenses by as much as 75% compared to truck haulage, says Railveyor.

"The success of the Railveyor at Goldex highlights the importance of collaboration between our team and AEM,” says Railveyor CEO Tas Mohamed.

This partnership, she adds, has demonstrated that Railveyor is not just a viable alternative to traditional methods, but a superior one in terms of safety, cost and environmental impact.

In emphasising the positive impact that came with the company’s support of the AEM and Railveyor project, Railveyor chairperson and mining investment firm Resource Capital Funds (RCF) MD Charles Gillies says that RCF supported Railveyor within RCF Innovation II in bringing this “innovative technology” to market.

“The positive impact at Goldex underscores the value of investing in sustainable and transformative mining solutions that can help enable the energy transition and meet the mining industry's challenges today and in the future," he notes.