TECHNOLOGY
SMART MINING ERA
Benefits from Digital Solutions
Digital innovation is shaping the mine of the future
WRITTEN BY : DOMINIC ELLIS
Over the past decade , the mining industry has faced increasingly difficult scenarios to improve efficiencies , raise safety and reduce costs , whilst also demonstrating an increased environmental and social awareness among local communities .
The recent China gold mine explosions in Shandong Province were a stark reminder of the dangers faced by miners working 400 meters below ground , even in today ’ s more safety-aware and technologically equipped 21st century .
Against the wider challenges of 2020 , the pressure to get the balance right has only intensified and the pandemic has triggered many countries to re-assess the long-lasting impacts of their mining and metal projects . As a result , new processes must be developed to meet the increasing demand for materials and low-carbon technologies .
On all fronts , this is where the new digital era can offer solutions .
Traditionally , mining has been slow to adopt new technologies and embrace innovations that could transform and strengthen the industry . However , an Accenture Consulting report found that 82 per cent of the mining industry is looking to increase investments in technological innovations over the next few years .
From AI and spatial visualisation data to GIS systems and automated drones , digital technologies are set to make mining operations around the world more productive , efficient and sustainable , whilst significantly reducing the risks involved and improving worker safety . The global smart mining market size is expected to reach $ 24,047.6 million in 2027 , from $ 9,256.7 million in 2019 , growing at a CAGR of 13 percent over the next six years , according to Allied Market Research .
Changes are now filtering through . At the end of last year , Epiroc agreed to buy MineRP , a software company specializing in increasing productivity for mines through integrated planning , execution and analytics .
“ The combination of MineRP ’ s platform capabilities with Epiroc ’ s digital solutions , partners and global presence has the potential to transform the way that mines operate ,” said Helena Hedblom , Epiroc ’ s President and CEO . “ MineRP is a highquality software provider with significant experience of connecting mines from pit to port , and together we will continue to
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