FQM said the simulators, which include two ruggedised, containerised base units and three modular cabs - the Caterpillar 785-C, Hitachi EH3500 and Liebherr 9350 - will be used to train new recruits from the local community as well as for existing operators.

ThoroughTec's simulator cabs are designed to be replicas of the actual mining equipment, where instruments and controls look, feel and operate as they do in the actual mining vehicle.

Features include the ability to inject faults such as tyre failure, fissures in the rock face, brake systems failure or engine faults, either randomly or on command, and then monitor student responses.

"Having the simulators to handle the bulk of the training requirement, saves us from removing machines from production and considering the number of operators we have it adds up quickly," said Ian McIntosh, training and development manager at FQM.

McIntosh added that simulators "have unique potential to prepare our operators for emergency scenarios and situations".

FQM ordered a custom "Own Mine World" section for the simulators as Kansanshi Mine operates six trolley-assist lines on the pit ramps. 

The ‘digital-twin' of their mine site and operations gives trainee truck drivers the ability to practise using the pantograph system on their trucks, engaging and disengaging the trolley-assist lines at the ideal location and angle; and thereby avoiding mishap and inefficiency.