TECH & AI
The mining industry is witnessing huge transformation as it embraces Industry 4.0 technologies , which are reshaping operations , improving safety , and enhancing productivity across the sector .
Industry 4.0 is the integration of digital technologies into industrial processes . In the context of mining , this includes the use of Internet of Things ( IoT ) devices , advanced sensors , and data analytics to optimise operations .
The IoT tends to be consumer-facing , typically involving wearable devices and smart home technology . A subset of IoT is Industrial IoT ( IIoT ). This consists of internet-connected machinery and advanced analytics platforms that process the data generated by IoT devices , which range from tiny environmental sensors to complex industrial robots .
IIoT technology is revolutionising a range of industries , including agriculture , healthcare , financial services retail and even advertising .
Mining , too , is adopting the technology , and companies such as Madison Technologies – a specialist in scaling network infrastructures – exist to bridge the gap between the technology providers and mining operators .
In a paper for Mining Journal about IIoT in mining , Tawanda Zvarivadza – a Mining & Rock Engineer at Luleå University of Technology in Swede –
“ IoT allows mining companies to gather real-time data from operations to make informed decisions ”
PAUL CALABRO , CEO , MADISON TECHNOLOGIES
says : “ Given the advantages that IoT brings to the forefront , it makes sense that so many mining companies have raised their investment following the implementation of IoT-enabled solutions in their organisations .”
Paul Calabro is CEO of Madison Technologies , and explains the significance of IoT in mining : “ IoT allows mining companies to gather real-time data from various points of operation , enabling informed decision-making and predictive maintenance .”
A major advantage of IoT in the mining industry is its ability to monitor remote and potentially hazardous operations without human intervention , a use case Paul illustrates with an example .
“ By deploying IoT sensors along rail lines , mining companies can continuously monitor critical parameters such as temperature ,” he says . “ This data can then be used to make crucial operational decisions . Operators can either slow down the rail carts , or see if there ’ s an alternative path .”
110 November 2024