BHP and Microsoft are using artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning (ML) capabilities in a bid to optimise copper recovery at BHP’s Escondida operation in Chile.
By using real-time plant data from the concentrators in conjunction with AI-based recommendations from Microsoft’s Azure platform, the concentrator operators at Escondida will have the ability to adjust operational variables affecting ore processing and grade recovery.
According to BHP Chief Technical Officer Laura Tyler, by combining emerging digital technology capabilities with novel ways of working, the team at Escondida will become well-positioned to generate more value from an existing resource.
“As grades decline at existing copper mines and fewer new economic discoveries are made, next-generation technologies like artificial intelligence, machine learning and data analytics will need to be used to unlock more production and value from our existing mines,” Tyler added.
Meanwhile, Microsoft AI Platform Corporate Vice President John Montgomery, the company is looking forward to working with BHP on a project that demonstrates the capabilities of AI, ML and cloud technologies.
BHP estimates that the world would need to double the amount of copper produced over the next three decades to keep pace with the development of decarbonisation technology, including electric vehicles, offshore wind farms and solar energy systems.
