Intertek’s Nicholas Davies speaks to ABHR about how the company is providing accurate tonnage via its Analytical Stockpile Assessment method.
Accurate measurement of bulk material stockpiles has long been a challenge for industries reliant on precise inventory management. From coal-fired power stations to mineral concentrate processing facilities, the need for reliable stockpile assessments is paramount.
Traditional measurement techniques, however, often relied on radioactive methods, raising both efficiency concerns and environmental risks. Recognising these challenges, Intertek pioneered its patented Analytical Stockpile Assessment (ASA) method, providing a groundbreaking, non-nuclear solution with superior accuracy.
A game-changer for stockpile assessment
Intertek developed the ASA method in response to the growing demand for precise coal stockpile tonnage measurement, particularly within the energy sector. Nicholas Davies, commercial director at Intertek, said the company sought to address inefficiencies in existing technologies.
“Historic methods involved using nuclear-based density measurement techniques. While effective, these methods posed significant environmental and logistical concerns,” he said. “Transporting and handling nuclear devices around Australia was both complex and restrictive, making it difficult to implement those technologies widely.”
The ASA method emerged as a non-nuclear alternative, leveraging advanced analytical techniques to measure stockpile tonnages with an accuracy of ±1.8 per cent. This innovation not only improved safety and efficiency but also expanded applicability beyond coal, enabling accurate measurement of mineral concentrates, fertilisers, and agricultural products.
A multi-disciplinary team driving innovation
The development and continual enhancement of the ASA method have been driven by a diverse team of experts. Led by Dr. Sergei Fedorenko and Nicholas Davies, the team combines expertise from land surveying, physics, and chemistry to ensure a robust and scientifically rigorous approach.
“We have land surveyors, physicists, and chemists, all contributing their technical expertise,” Davies said. “The front end of our method is land-surveying heavy, requiring precision in volume calculations, while the back end relies on laboratory-intensive processes. Having NATA-accredited scientists ensures the accuracy and repeatability of our results.”
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In the past year, Intertek has integrated degree qualified land surveyors into its ASA team. These specialists employ advanced LiDAR surveying techniques to measure stockpiles with exceptional accuracy, ensuring compliance with industry best practices. The combination of scientific excellence and innovative measurement technology reinforces Intertek’s commitment to delivering high-quality solutions for bulk material assessment.
The role of LiDAR in enhancing accuracy
One of the most significant advancements in ASA has been the integration of LiDAR-equipped drones, which has substantially improved stockpile measurement accuracy. According to Davies, LiDAR technology achieves volumetric assessments within ±1 per cent accuracy, a major improvement over traditional surveying techniques.
“LiDAR brings three key advantages to stockpile assessment,” he said. “Firstly, it enhances safety by eliminating the need for personnel to physically interact with stockpiles, reducing risk. Secondly, it significantly reduces time spent in the field, as volumetric calculations are now completed much faster. Thirdly, the technology captures millions of three-dimensional data points, ensuring that every contour of the stockpile is accurately recorded.”
These high-resolution 3D models provide clients with detailed spatial insights, improving inventory management and operational planning. Additionally, drone-mounted LiDAR enhances accessibility in challenging environments, such as large-scale stockyards or hazardous locations.
A method tailored for multiple industries
Originally developed for coal stockpile assessment, Intertek’s ASA method has since been successfully applied across multiple industries, including mineral processing, agriculture, and fertiliser storage. Davies said the methodology consists of three main components:
3D land surveying – Using UAV LiDAR to capture stockpile volumes with extreme precision.
Physical sampling – Collecting material samples for laboratory analysis.
Compression testing – Conducting laboratory tests to assess density and gravitational properties, ensuring accurate tonnage determination.
“Depending on the commodity, we adhere to ISO standards for sampling methods, whether for grain, iron ore, or fertilisers,” Davies said. “Following these best-practice protocols ensures that our assessment process remains consistent and reliable across different industries.”
Automation and remote assessment
Intertek is committed to further refining its ASA methodology and expanding its capabilities through automation and remote monitoring solutions.
“We are exploring in-situ processes where we install systems for continuous monitoring and assessment,” Davies said.
“This includes automation in both sampling and volumetric surveys, integrating real-time LiDAR technology for instant volume calculations.”
Intertek is also planning collaborations with robotics and automation firms to streamline sample collection processes, further reducing manual intervention and enhancing safety.
Quality assurance and product management
Intertek’s role extends beyond stockpile tonnage assessment. The company also provides comprehensive quality assurance testing, ensuring stored materials meet industry standards.
“For example, in grain stockpiles, we don’t just measure tonnage – we also assess factors such as moisture content and infestation levels,” Davies said. “These quality parameters directly impact the monetary value of a stockpile, providing clients with a complete understanding of both quantity and quality.”
Intertek also engages with clients on stockpile management strategies, offering insights into storage capacity and optimal handling practices between shipments.
“We’re continuously learning alongside our clients. As new challenges arise, we adapt our methodologies to provide the most effective solutions,” Davies said.
Through its pioneering ASA method, Intertek has changed stockpile assessment, providing industries with a non-nuclear, highly accurate, and scientifically robust solution.
