Detecting drainage pitfalls in open-pit mines and haul roads using UAV-photogrammetry

Open-pit mines generally have operational problems such as puddling and inappropriate water flow over haul roads, particularly if located in areas with high rainfall indices. These situations increase truck cycle times, promote rapid deterioration of haul-road wearing-course material, reduce productivity due to downtime road maintenance. In addition, costs are raised the frequency maintenance tire failures also increase. The use a high-resolution three-dimensional elevation model, created based on Unmanned Aerial Vehicle (UAV) photogrammetry, has been shown be an effective technique detect anomalies fast precise way. With proposed approach, it is possible diagnose conditions after or anticipate potential occurrence before they become greater problem. This diagnosis can then used prioritize activities open-pit mines. To describe methodology, case study presented demonstrating validating results obtained.