MODERN INVERTER CONTROL SYSTEMS FOR REDUCING ENERGY CONSUMPTION IN MINING MACHINERY

Abstract

Energy efficiency has become one of the most critical priorities in the mining industry due to the growing cost of electricity, increasing depth of underground operations, and the global trend toward sustainable resource extraction. Mining machinery—such as conveyors, crushers, excavators, drilling rigs, pumps, and ventilation systems—constitutes the largest share of total energy consumption in mining enterprises. Therefore, the introduction of modern inverter control systems (variable frequency drives, VFDs) plays a crucial role in optimizing power usage, stabilizing load distribution, and improving overall operational performance. This study examines the technological, operational, and economic aspects of using inverter control systems to reduce energy consumption in mining equipment. Modern VFDs allow precise control of motor speed and torque according to real-time load conditions, helping to eliminate unnecessary energy losses caused by constant-speed motors, mechanical throttling, or manual control methods traditionally used in mining. The research highlights that the application of inverter-based control enables 25–60% reduction in electricity usage depending on machine type, operational environment, and duty cycle characteristics.