SITECH: Enhancing Quarry Operations with Trimble Groundworks

Trimble Groundworks is a 3D machine control system that improves efficiency and reduces downtime with stakeless navigation, monitoring productivity and quality, and managing design data from office to field. Groundworks delivers drill holes in a uniform blasting pattern to improve rock fragmentation.

Trimble Groundworks and Trimble dealer Sitech Solutions are working together to help Australian quarries meet their needs in a changing landscape. 

In the world of quarry management, where efficiency, accuracy, and safety are paramount, Trimble Groundworks is revolutionising the game. This cutting-edge technology, available through your local Trimble dealer SITECH Solutions, is transforming the way quarry owners and managers approach drilling and blasting operations and is making a substantial impact on quarry productivity, product quality, and cost savings.

Precision Control Over Drilling Operations

Speaking with Quarry Magazine, Kevin Garcia, General Manager for Civil Specialty Solutions at Trimble, describes Trimble Groundworks as “a machine control solution that delivers precision control over drill implements.” In simpler terms, it manages the drill head’s position, inclination, and hole depth, ensuring that every blast hole is precisely where it should be. This level of control ensures that the shot plan unfolds as expected, resulting in consistent bench formations, which quarry managers value for optimal product quality.

Elevating Product Quality for Crushers

One of the standout features of Trimble Groundworks is its ability to enhance the final product quality for crushers. By providing highly accurate drilling control, this technology allows for a more consistent shot pattern and fracture size. Quarry managers can optimise these factors to match the needs of their crushers, ultimately leading to improved product quality and efficiency in the crushing operation.

Enhancing Safety in Quarry Operations

Safety is a top priority in quarry operations, and Trimble Groundworks plays a role in enhancing it. As noted by Garcia, “Having a 3D plan in Trimble Groundworks means you can navigate to a point in the field with high accuracy and confidence. You don’t follow the traditional method of having a surveyor in the field to mark positions on the ground. This eliminates the need for someone to be in the field and reduces the likelihood of a safety incident.”

Seamless Integration 

Trimble Groundworks seamlessly integrates with factory 2D solutions provided by many equipment manufacturers. “The OEM sensor information, like tilt and depth sensors, is shared via the machine’s CAN Bus with Trimble Groundworks,” explains Garcia. This means that if a machine already has these 2D sensors, there’s no need for duplicate installations when adding on the 3D components. The integration not only saves time but also ensures efficient use of existing equipment and technology.

Kevin Garcia, General Manager – Civil Specialty Solutions, Trimble

Getting Started with Trimble Groundworks

For quarry owners considering the adoption of Trimble Groundworks, the initial steps are straightforward. “I always say the first step is to assign a project champion,” says Garcia. “Someone who is vested in seeing the technology adoption be successful and own the change management piece. The rest will be supported by your local Trimble dealer, who can provide support throughout the process, including assistance with site surveys and the preparation of 3D models and drill plans.

“Because Trimble Groundworks is often integrated into the OEM system, there isn’t a lot to train the operator on, they run the drill the way they traditionally would but they now have the added insight of position information and drilling accuracy reports.”

Eco-Friendly and Regulatory Compliance

Environmental sustainability is an ever-growing concern in the industry, and Trimble Groundworks contributes positively. Garcia says, “You can complete your work faster and with less rework, meaning less fuel burn and overtime.” Additionally, the technology delivers a predictable shot pattern and fracture size, increasing throughput at the crusher while reducing wear and tear, aligning with both environmental goals and regulatory requirements.

Future Innovations

Quarry owners and managers can look forward to continuous enhancements in Trimble Groundworks with Garcia highlighting upcoming features such as back-office dashboards that offer near-real-time insights into machine productivity and quality in the field. Trimble’s commitment to innovation promises to further boost operations and profitability.

Trimble Groundworks manages the drill head’s position, inclination, and hole depth, ensuring that every blast hole is precisely where it should be.

Trimble Groundworks: A Name You Can Trust

What sets Trimble Groundworks apart from the competition? According to Garcia, “Trimble has long been known for high-quality, reliable, and accurate solutions.” This, coupled with the local support and expertise provided by dealers like SITECH Solutions, ensures that customers have a trusted partner who is dedicated to their success.

Amidst the evolving landscape of quarry management, Trimble Groundworks is not just a technology; it’s a precision partner, improving product quality, safety, and efficiency, all while reducing environmental impact. It’s no wonder that quarry owners and managers are turning to Trimble Groundworks to optimise their drilling and blasting operations, leading the way to greater productivity and profitability.