Technology visions for mining at Syncrude

In the last 20 years, there have been considerable changes in the mining equipment and mining methods used at Syncrude. In the next 20 years, it is expected that there will be further significant changes in the technologies that Syncrude employs. These changes will cover a wide spectrum and will range from derivative changes (changes that are improvements to current mining techniques) to breakthrough changes (changes that radically alter the way in which mining is conducted). Between these two extremes are platform changes that represent a significant advance in the technologies currently employed. Some of the changes within the derivative category include the move to larger and more efficient mobile equipment such as shovels and trucks. Improved wear materials to extend component life and reduce the required maintenance also fit into this category. Finally, there are a wide range of other options such as contracting strategies, organizational structures, and mine planning and reporting systems. Changes in platform technologies include improved equipment condition monitoring and diagnostic systems and the associated sensors and embedded analysis systems. Platform changes in mine planning, production, and maintenance systems will allow critical data to be made available in real time to users. These changes require the development of strategies for a communications infrastructure for voice, data and video that are capable of covering the entire Syncrude mining operation. Changes in the breakthrough category include the development of such technologies as shallow in-situ technology, improved use of automation, and the development of modular and relocatable oil sand mining and bitumen extraction facilities. Work being conducted within Syncrude and/or through its research partners in each of these areas will be discussed along with the potential impact of any changes. A vision of what the Syncrude mining operation could look like in 20 years time will also be explored.