1092
Digitalization of Centrifugal Slurry Pumps—a Reflection of
Innovation, Research &Development Work and Lessons Learned
Alan Varghese
Metso Australia Pty Ltd and University of Western Australia
Sudarshan Martins
Metso Canada Inc.
Evert Lessing
Metso Finland Oy
Ghulam Mubashar Hassan, Ali Karrech
University of Western Australia
ABSTRACT: Digitalization has been of interest over the last few years in the mining and mineral processing
industry. Many recognize digitalization as a possible solution to enhance safety and sustainability, reduce costs
and improve operational efficiency. However, the path has not been easy much foundational work still needs to
be done and the degree of market collaboration needs to be increased. This paper focuses on the practical aspects
of digitalization using slurry pumps, a simple and common machine used in the mining and mineral processing
industry. This paper provides a reflective overview on innovation, field case examples, current development
works, and lessons learned in the process.
INTRODUCTION
With the rapid development of and spread of new tech-
nologies, digitalization has been gaining momentum in the
mining and mineral processing industry over the last few
years. This interest is driven by the need for electrification,
supply chain security, and a response to Environmental
Social and Governance (ESG) considerations that aim
to foster sustainable production. Apart from its positive
impact on safety and sustainability, many recognise digita-
lization as a possible solution to reduce costs and improve
the efficiency of mining operations. According to a report
by Ernest and Young, the topic of “Digitalization and
Innovation” has moved up from the 9th to the 5th position
in the Top 10 business risks and opportunities for mining
and metals in 2024, indicating an increased interest and
concern in this area (Mitchell, 2023).
Digitalization involves the use of computerised or digital
devices and digitised data to reduce costs, improve business
productivity, and transform mining practices (Barnewold
&Lottermoser, 2020). Autonomous haul trucks are a great
example of this transformation. Other examples include
autonomous drill rigs and heavy-haul, long-distance trains.
Although mineral processing remains limited in the digital
transformation, processing companies do aspire to achieve
full autonomy of the plant, with advanced process control,
new sensors and analysers, highly skilled operators aided
Digitalization of Centrifugal Slurry Pumps—a Reflection of
Innovation, Research &Development Work and Lessons Learned
Alan Varghese
Metso Australia Pty Ltd and University of Western Australia
Sudarshan Martins
Metso Canada Inc.
Evert Lessing
Metso Finland Oy
Ghulam Mubashar Hassan, Ali Karrech
University of Western Australia
ABSTRACT: Digitalization has been of interest over the last few years in the mining and mineral processing
industry. Many recognize digitalization as a possible solution to enhance safety and sustainability, reduce costs
and improve operational efficiency. However, the path has not been easy much foundational work still needs to
be done and the degree of market collaboration needs to be increased. This paper focuses on the practical aspects
of digitalization using slurry pumps, a simple and common machine used in the mining and mineral processing
industry. This paper provides a reflective overview on innovation, field case examples, current development
works, and lessons learned in the process.
INTRODUCTION
With the rapid development of and spread of new tech-
nologies, digitalization has been gaining momentum in the
mining and mineral processing industry over the last few
years. This interest is driven by the need for electrification,
supply chain security, and a response to Environmental
Social and Governance (ESG) considerations that aim
to foster sustainable production. Apart from its positive
impact on safety and sustainability, many recognise digita-
lization as a possible solution to reduce costs and improve
the efficiency of mining operations. According to a report
by Ernest and Young, the topic of “Digitalization and
Innovation” has moved up from the 9th to the 5th position
in the Top 10 business risks and opportunities for mining
and metals in 2024, indicating an increased interest and
concern in this area (Mitchell, 2023).
Digitalization involves the use of computerised or digital
devices and digitised data to reduce costs, improve business
productivity, and transform mining practices (Barnewold
&Lottermoser, 2020). Autonomous haul trucks are a great
example of this transformation. Other examples include
autonomous drill rigs and heavy-haul, long-distance trains.
Although mineral processing remains limited in the digital
transformation, processing companies do aspire to achieve
full autonomy of the plant, with advanced process control,
new sensors and analysers, highly skilled operators aided