The Quebec-based Arlyx Technologies has introduced its first complete, fully electric autonomous solution that’s purpose-built for material handling in underground mines.
The autonomous material handler was developed over two years in Quebec and tested under real conditions at a Tier 1 mine. It made its debut at Mining Transformed.
“Our vehicle wasn’t retrofitted to be mining-ready. It is designed for mines, their constraints and their realities,” said Michael Simard, Founder and CEO of Arlyx Technologies.
The Arlyx solution goes beyond autonomous driving. The utility vehicle and AutoLatch module can transport, load and unload of up to 5,000 kg remotely and without interruption, even during blasting periods.
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Post-blast ventilation represents one of the most significant productivity losses in underground mining. Arlyx turns these interruptions into working hours by delivering consumables, like rock bolts, pipes or concrete, while workers are evacuated. Materials are then ready and in place when crews return.
By shifting material handling to blasting periods, Arlyx frees up the ramp during production shifts, allowing ore trucks to move without slowdown. The result is one additional ore load per day.
“Ramp congestion is the bottleneck of every underground mine. Every day, hours and thousands of dollars are left on the table. Arlyx is the first to tackle the problem at its source by clearing the ramp,” Simard said.
Zero-entry and electric
As extraction goes deeper and conditions grow more demanding, underground mine automation reduces miners’ exposure to on-site hazards. An Arlyx autonomous vehicle helps reduce incidents and production downtime, as well as addressing labour shortages. A single teleoperator can oversee up to 10 Arlyx vehicles simultaneously.
“We are proud to make the zero-entry mine a reality — one where technology takes the risks, not people,” Simard said.
Electric vehicles like Arlyx’s offer a clear economic advantage by eliminating diesel costs. Its zero emissions reduce the need for underground ventilation, the largest operating expense in a mine. Its simplified mechanics reduce maintenance needs while supporting decarbonization goals.
Arlyx integrates seamlessly into existing mine infrastructure (LTE, 5G, Wi-Fi, or radio) in a fully agnostic manner. From connectivity and software to on-the-ground support, the solution is backed by specialists in both robotics and IoT.
Multiple patents are pending for Arlyx’s autonomous transport solution, whose modular architecture is designed to evolve. The engineering team is already at work on additional modules, such as fire suppression, dust control and ore transport.
