Work

Safety Challenges in Battery Swapping Operations of Electric Underground Mining Trucks

Year: 2025

Type: article

Abstract: Recently, the global landscape of public transportation has witnessed a transformative shift towards sustainable and efficient modes of mobility, with particular emphasis on electric vehicles (EVs) and their integration into industrial applications. The mining industry, including the underground mining of the mineral resources sector is following this trend. However, underground mines are critical environments and the adoption of EVs needs to be carefully analysed. This study investigates the associated hazards and risks of adopting EVs (such as dumpers and loaders) focusing on the swapping battery operations. First, current hazards related to battery swapping are identified—21 in total, occurring in 25 instances. After, risks are assessed and associated with specific hazards. Finally, possible measures and solutions for reducing the impacts of these risks on the performance of the EVs are offered.

Source: Applied Sciences

DOI: 10.3390/app15126763

Authors: Alberto Martinetti, Ognjen Popović, Micaela Demichela, Pier Paolo Oreste, Aleksandar Cvjetić, Vladimir Milisavljević

Institutions: University of Twente, University of Belgrade, Politecnico di Torino

Language: English

Topic: Industrial and Mining Safety

Subfield: Safety, Risk, Reliability and Quality

Field: Engineering

Domain: Physical Sciences

SDGs: Industry, innovation and infrastructure, Sustainable cities and communities

Open Access status: gold

Estimated APC paid: $2,896