Autonomous quarry plant tested in Plymouth

AI-powered autonomous quarry plant has been tested at Holcim UK’s quarry in Plymouth.

Over two days at Holcim’s Lee Moor sand and gravel quarry, a 23-tonne Develon crawler excavator fitted with autonomous technology from Swiss startup Gravis Robotics was tasked with feeding a hopper of a screener with sand and gravel with a target of performing 100 cycles per hour.

The machine averaged 133 cycles an hour, shifting 1,500 tonnes of material daily, with a 99% accuracy and minimal spillage.

Paul Mitchinson, head of mobile plant for Holcim UK, said: “We were excited to see how autonomous technology could work and be successfully integrated into day-to-day operations.

“The introduction of this type of technology in our industry could lead to greater productivity through increased output and consistency, improved safety on site and improved sustainability through optimising the performance of large plant “

Following the successful trial, Holcim, Gravis Robotics and Develon’s owner, Hyundai Xitesolution, have entered a strategic partnership to commercialise the autonomous technology.