Holmesglen Institute, a diversified technical and further education (TAFE) operating throughout Victoria, announced Monday it will acquire two highly-advanced, 5th generation CYBERMINE simulators to train underground equipment operators.
The Sandvik DS421-C and DD420 simulators from ThoroughTec Simulation will enhance Holmesglen’s training offering in the mining and tunnelling sector, the company said in a press release. The simulators will be deployed at the Australian-first, Victorian Tunnelling Centre at Drummond Street campus, Chadstone, Victoria, which offers specialist training to workers in the mining, construction and tunnelling sectors.
Associate Director of Holmesglen’s Centre for Energy and Infrastructure, Dr. Ross Digby, said there was high demand for innovative immersive training.
“The new simulators at Holmesglen will teach underground workers practical skills in a safe, controlled and highly realistic setting that reproduces a variety of site conditions and scenarios,” Digby said.
Business Development Manager at ThoroughTec Simulation, Joel Leatt-Hayter, said the training simulators will help workers familiarise themselves with widely used machinery in Australia.
CYBERMINE simulator systems are extremely effective at preparing operators for the challenges and complexity of real-world mining, allowing operators to hone their skills in a controlled, safe environment while being exposed to a wide array of scenarios, many of which would be impossible to train otherwise and consequently better prepare them for conditions underground.
“As an example, operators can be exposed to jammed drill bits or even vehicle fires, which obviously would be difficult to safely replicate on the actual equipment. It’s vital that operators are accurate in positioning the rig and booms to ensure accurate patterns are drilled and optimal blasts achieved. Of equal importance is the correct application of feed pressure, rotation speeds and percussion to maximise work rate without compromising drill string life” Leatt- Hayter said.
The two simulators being delivered to Holmesglen will be deployed on a CYBERMINE 5 Base Unit which features full HD laser projected displays, 5.1 surround sound, and an advanced instructor station to develop customised training exercises and monitor students in real-time. The system also features debriefing and reporting facilities to further enhance student skill development and knowledge retention.