How Can RFID Be Applied in the Coal-Mining Industry to Track Truck Deliveries?

In general, most companies employ an active (battery-powered) radio frequency identification system to track trucks entering and leaving a mine with a load. This can be accomplished via a real-time location system (RTLS) if there are vehicles parked that need to be located quickly.

But more commonly, an active RFID transponder is affixed to a vehicle, with readers set up at various points—at a mine's entry gate, at a weigh station, at an exit and so forth. Software tracks the truck's location, and you can usually run a variety of reports. The best solution really depends on the type of information that you would like to collect and use.

Here are some articles that might be relevant:

Mining New Value From RFID


Mining companies worldwide have been using RFID to track assets, vehicles and workers above and below ground. Now industry pioneers are adopting new applications to further streamline production and reduce costs, as well as improve safety.

V. M. Salgaocar and Bro. Mines Automation From NFC-based Process


The Indian mining company has deployed a Near-Field Communication system to simplify the tracking of trucks from its iron mines to weigh stations, and through its processing plant.

RFID Helps Miners Strike Gold


Several South African mines are using semi-active UHF RFID tags to identify gold and waste rock as material leaves blasting sites.

Australian Mining Contractor Prevents Vehicular Collisions


Byrnecut Mining developed a cost-effective RFID solution to improve safety during short-term mining projects.

Xstrata Mines RFID's Benefits


To help it track personnel and improve safety and productivity, the company's coal division has rolled out a Wi-Fi-based active RFID system.

Anglo Coal Tags Miners' Cap Lamps, Vehicles and Tools


Although the main objective of its RFID system is to improve employee safety, the company also hopes to cut costs by better tracking tools between shifts

CVRD Inco Mines Turns to Ekahau to Track Assets, Productivity


Two of the company's mining sites are currently installing Ekahau's real-time location systems.

RFID Is Golden to Nevada Mine


Newmont's Leeville gold mine is using an AeroScout Wi-Fi-based system to track workers and equipment at its underground operation.