Above: The control panel for the drill targeting system lets the operator upload the engineer’s design, which shows how each hole should be drilled. Left: Working areas for automated equipment must be fully isolated while those machines are at work. Photos courtesy of HECLA MINING CO.
March 30, 2018
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March 30, 2018 2:29 p.m.
Hecla: Technology should retool, not replace, miners
Despite a lengthy, contentious and expensive strike, Hecla Mining Co. officials want to make something abundantly clear: They’re embracing advances in technology not to bypass contrary employees, but to strengthen the company for the long haul.