Are you developing some smart tech that could transform Australia’s mining industry?

Well, we have some good news for you.

Mining equipment, technology and services (METS) Industry Growth Centre, METS Ignited, is backing collaborative projects in analytics, automation and robotics to the tune of $4 million.

To be eligible for funding, projects must be collaborative and industry-led, with clear commercialisation applications that address opportunities in analytics, automation or robotics for mining operations.

Each project must have at least three METS companies stimulating cross-pollination of ideas and skillsets.

The funding is part of a four-year, $15.6 million federal government commitment to encourage collaboration and address METS-mining sector priorities.

The METS Ignited Collaborative Project Funds are being used to support industry-led projects to improve the productivity, competitiveness and social performance in the mining industry.

Demonstrating innovation in mining operations

Acting CEO of METS Ignited, Ian Dover, says the funding enables partnerships and projects to demonstrate innovation in mining operations that might not otherwise be possible.

"Facilitating new solutions for mining challenges is part of the mandate for METS Ignited,” he says. “It’s vital we support the development of influential future technologies by METS companies as this will maintain the competitiveness of Australian mining.”

Dover says the initiative has already resulted in new software solutions, devices and facilities being used across the industry.

Recipients of the Collaborative Project Funds must secure equal or greater investment from a customer.

As a result, this funding is expected to generate a minimum of $8 million in world-class mining technology.

Aussie innovation on show

Projects previously supported by the METS Ignited Collaborative Project Funds include:

• Sensor technology to monitor the location of people and equipment underground
• AI technology designed to emulate the role of a mineral processing expert
• Automated sensor detection for oversized rocks
• A METS career pathway program
• A device to give more detailed information on the chemistry inside a grinding mill while it’s operating

Potential applicants can register for a 1 August webinar held by Austmine and METS Ignited, which will give valuable insights into the application process as well as priority areas of focus.

For more information visit: www.metsignited.org