The mining sector is one of the most labour-intensive sectors that is experiencing a major shift towards smart and more sustainable operations. Mining companies have made significant investments in technology-driven solutions as a result of the demand for remote operations and decreased physical interaction.
Core Objectives of Smart Mining
Smart mining is now a new future of the mining industry. However, the core objective should not be ignored in any way. The integration of smart tech is to bring more efficiency and accuracy to the job without making any significant shift to its basic goals. Some of the primary focuses of smart mining are:
Safety
Safety is of supreme importance when it comes to mining employees. It is a primary concern due to the thousands of injuries that occur to miners every year. Innovative solutions, like the Eagle cap lamp from Northern Light Technologies, can help the miners track the danger prior to it happening. The alarm system gives enough time for the miners to avoid the accidents.
Production Growth
Smart mining uses real-time data to streamline mining operations. It helps in locating the best mining sites and trouble spots in current operations, resulting in higher productivity and efficiency.
Lower expenses
Over time, automation not only improves worker safety but also lowers operational expenses. Artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning increase operational efficiency while autonomous mining equipment operates continuously to reduce costs.
Going Green
Mining firms are utilising technology to reduce their impact on the environment. They reduce energy and water use, capture CO2 emissions, and store them for better use in future.
Effective Smart Mining Solutions
With reference to the major objectives of smart mining, there are some solutions as well to achieve the goals. The integration of smart techs in mining equipment like used mini dozers for sale can improve productivity and mining operations.
Safety Solution
New safety equipment, such as the Eagle cap lamp with tracking and alarms, keeps miners safer. Whereas, the Prevention through Design (PtD) initiative helps in the creation of safer workplaces.
Productivity Improvements
Digital twins (virtual mine clones) and self-driving cars are increasing productivity. To conserve resources and money, they employ real-time data.
Cost Reduction Solution
Cost-cutting innovations include the Komatsu autonomous haulage system and the ABB AbilityTM MineOptimize solution, which help mining companies operate more profitably.
Environmentally Friendly Solutions
Conveyor belt technology, such as those from Dos Santos International (DSI) and Sempertrans, utilises less energy. Mining becomes greener through clean coal initiatives like Carbon Dioxide Capture and Storage (CCS).