Mining and mining supply companies can now leverage the Australian university’s advanced manufacturing test facilities to develop new technology prior to on-site operations.
With the signed memorandum of understanding (MoU) between RMIT University and Amira Global, Australia’s largest tertiary institution will join an international network of organisations working collectively to address major challenges in the mining industry.
On the agreement, Amira Global CEO Dr Jacquie Coombes commented: “The MOU offers Amira Global Members facilitated access to RMIT’s test labs on a case-by-case basis. This will allow them to accelerate the implementation and translation of research and development with the least disruption to on-site operations.”
“Without facilities such as those offered by RMIT, the implementation of technology that could improve the economic, social, and environmental performance of the resources sector is severely impaired,” Coombes continued.
RMIT will become the first educational institution to join Amira’s CoLabs Program, which aims to accelerate collaboration among test facilities across the globe and fast-track the implementation of new technology with minimal disruption to on-site operations.
According to RMIT Deputy Vice-Chancellor Research and Innovation and Vice-President, Professor Calum Drummond, the network will be an important recipe for producing high-impact research.
“Industry is embedded in everything we do and a key way that we’re supporting Australia’s economic recovery,” Drummond said.
Solid manufacturing record
At the helm of the university’s collaborative efforts with industry partners is its Advanced Manufacturing Precinct which offers services such as additive manufacturing, subtractive manufacturing, and industrial automation.
The Precinct’s team of experts holds a track record of helping mining companies with high value-add technology, such as rapid prototyping and the 3D-printing of mining metal parts.
“Mining companies will find a range of relevant research capability at RMIT, backed by world-class facilities and expertise,” said Drummond.
“Some of these areas include circular economy and sustainability expertise, environmental custodianship, resource processing technology, materials engineering, advanced manufacturing, Industry 4.0, geospatial science and social policy,” he added.
