Comparison of operator performance in a mineral processing plant

The operator of an industrial process plant has a major impact on the overall efficiency of the operation and the quality of the product. However, the differences between the operators and the underlying causes leading to the efficiency and quality are rarely known explicitly. In this study, data from key process variables of a mineral processing plant are grouped according to the operator on duty. The grouped data are analyzed using a rank-based statistical test (Kruskal-Wallis) and pairwise comparisons to determine differences between the operators. The results show statistically significant differences between groups in most of the process variables. Analysis of the results indicate differences in the operators´ control strategies and skills, which can be utilized in further research of efficient operating principles.