RMIT University has signed an agreement with Amira Global that will see it join an international network of forward-thinking organisations working collectively to solve major mining industry challenges.
The Memorandum of Understanding between Amira Global and RMIT paves the way for mining and mining supply companies to use the university's test facilities to de-risk innovation and technology entering the industry.
In announcing the agreement, Amira Global CEO Dr Jacqui Coombes said RMIT was a valued addition to the Amira CoLabs Program.
"The MOU offers Amira Global Members facilitated access to RMIT's test labs on a case-by-case basis. This will allow them to accelerate the implementation and translation of research and development with the least disruption to on-site operations," Dr Coombes said.
"Amira Global's CoLabs Program connects a network of test facilities around the world. Without facilities such as those offered by RMIT, the implementation of technology that could improve the economic, social, and environmental performance of the resources sector is severely impaired.
"We are extremely fortunate to have RMIT as part of our global network. It is the first university in the CoLabs Program, and we welcome their contribution to fast-tracking the best solutions possible into industry."
RMIT Deputy Vice-Chancellor Research and Innovation and Vice-President, Professor Calum Drummond, said industry collaboration was a key focus for the university and an important ingredient for producing high impact research.
"Industry is embedded in everything we do and a key way that we're supporting Australia's economic recovery," Prof Drummond said.
"We look forward to codesigning and co-creating solutions with new industry partners."
RMIT's Advanced Manufacturing Precinct already has a solid track record in helping industry partners with high value-add technology, such as rapid prototyping and repairs of metal parts in mining using 3D printers.
"Mining companies will find a range of relevant research capability at RMIT, backed by world-class facilities and expertise. Some of these areas include circular economy and sustainability expertise, environmental custodianship, resource processing technology, materials engineering, advanced manufacturing, Industry 4.0, geospatial science and social policy," he said.
Amira Global is a member-based not-for-profit charged with transforming the minerals industry through thought leadership platforms; R&D collaboration to address key breakthroughs; and the development of implementation and commercialisation pathways to ensure R&D and innovation outcomes translate back into industry.
As a global university of technology and design, RMIT enjoys an international reputation for high-impact, applied research.
