Inbye will supply LASC hardware and software and associated support services to Carborough Downs Coal Management.

The agreement gives the mine access to the suite of technology developed by CSIRO for the automation of its new longwall, to be commissioned soon.

Inbye said extensive compatibility testing of all the hardware and software components had already been undertaken in collaboration with Carborough and CSIRO engineers.

Inbye’s Automation division will provide support services from its LASC control centre at Morisset, with the longwall to commence production with significant enhancements and repackaging already applied to the CSIRO hardware.

“Our ability to embrace the technology has allowed Inbye Mining to step ahead of the competition and provide a fully operational and remotely monitored system straight out of the box. The development of additional functionality and enhancements to the technology suite is well advanced,” Inbye Automation general manager Lindsay Auston said.

Yesterday’s deal follows the recent signing of a worldwide non-exclusive licensing agreement between ZZM-Kopex and CSIRO.

ZZM-Kopex, a 50% shareholder in Inbye, has received the CSIRO reference designs that will enable it to begin incorporating the principal LASC components of face alignment, horizon control, communications and operator interface, and information systems into its longwall shearers and powered roof supports.

“Conquest of the 1 million tonne per month barrier is impossible without the integration of automated control and monitoring systems and the further development of this technology with our partners,” ZZM-Kopex marketing and development markets director Marek Mika said.

Inbye managing director Richard Eveleigh said Vale and ZZM-Kopex’s use of LASC sent a strong message to the industry.

“A primary goal of the LASC platform is to maintain the integrity of the open architecture of the Landmark Information System, ensuring interconnectivity of equipment without communication protocol converters, a vital requirement where single-sourcing of equipment is not so prevalent,” Eveleigh said.

“Our investment in dedicated infrastructure and personnel for the supply of automation solutions now affords any mine in Australia the opportunity to partner with a company at the forefront of development of LASC technology.”