Unlocking Insights: A Case Study on 3D Pointcloud Acquisition with UAV LiDAR in Mining Projects

This case study highlights how YellowScan collaborated with Surveying Control Systems Ltda. to utilize its Vx15 LiDAR technology for an aerial survey of the Huasco Pellet Plant in Chile, resulting in a detailed 3D model of the facility.

Identifying the Challenge

The primary objective of this initiative was to create a comprehensive model of the Huasco Pellet Plant, owned by the state-run CAP Mining. This facility processes iron ore sourced from the Los Colorados mines, focusing on minimizing mineral impurities.

Since its inception in 1978, the Huasco Pellet Plant has faced various maintenance challenges attributed to its age. Additionally, its coastal location has led to significant corrosion issues affecting the equipment.

In response, CAP Mining, alongside the Chilean government, decided to invest in the plant’s re-engineering to enhance maintenance practices and mitigate environmental pollution risks. They enlisted the expertise of Surveying Control Systems Ltda.to conduct an aerial survey using the YellowScan Vx15 LiDAR system, supplemented by terrestrial laser scanning in select areas.

“The accuracy and volume of data captured with a LiDAR system are remarkable, as the resulting point clouds are incredibly lifelike,” stated Dusan Domancic Dragicevic, CEO of Surveying Control Systems Ltda. “LiDAR allows for a direct visualization of plans rather than mere interpretation. It clearly defines layouts and structures, enhancing safety in hazardous work environments.This solution is genuinely unparalleled.”

Data Acquisition

Surveying Control Systems Ltda. achieved an average density of 60 points per square meter (6 points per square foot), with some areas reaching up to 382 points per square meter (38 points per square foot).

Given the plant’s extensive size, LiDAR technology enabled the survey to be completed in a fraction of the time required by conventional topographic methods, while also delivering enhanced precision and accuracy.

Outcomes

The result was a highly detailed 3D model of the pellet plant, closely mirroring the actual site.

This model provided CAP Mining with essential insights for planning the plant’s refurbishment.

The survey’s findings indicated potential relocations for new thickeners and conveyor belts, the establishment of new stockpile areas, and the possibility of refurbishing buildings suffering from corrosion-related structural issues.

While terrestrial laser scanning could have offered greater precision, it would have been slower given the volume of data required.

Traditional topographic methods could also be employed, but they are substantially slower and carry a higher risk of errors due to manual data collection.

project Parameters:

• Survey Area: 120 hectares (297 acres) 
• Timeline: planning: 1 day; data acquisition: 2 days; processing: 5 days 
• Number of Flights: 13 
• Flight Speed & Altitude: 5 m/s (11 mph) at 70m (230ft) altitude
• Equipment Used: YellowScan Vx15, DJI Matrice 600, and Phantom 4 RTK camera.