Innovation is the core of growth. At last, the mining industry, which was reluctant to embrace digitization and was focusing on mechanical force and manpower, is embracing digital technology. All the major players in the sector, who might form around 10%, have already digitized or are in the advanced stages of digitization. This article is intended to act as a catalyst for decision-making for the remaining reluctant entities.

Improved efficiency, increased productivity, reduced expenses, upskilled professionals, and enhanced growth prospects are the direct benefits of exploring futuristic solutions like mining automation. Nonetheless, we will be elaborating on the prominent aspects that underline how mining automation transforms the mining workforce.

What is Mining Automation?

Autonomous mining solutions have been available for about one and a half decades. Many of the leading players in the sector have embraced the technology. They have been making exceptional headway by integrating these advanced systems. Semi-autonomous, rather than autonomous mining machines, are being used presently. They perform mining work with minimal human interference and control.

Mining tasks are undertaken by human beings with minimal usage of advanced technology. With mining automation, the scenario would be the opposite. The autonomous or semi-autonomous machinery will function based on the directives or pre-fed commands. The main activities, like mining and excavation, would be done by autonomous drilling solutions, autonomous dump trucks, etc.

Mining automation will reduce the possibility of accidents, improve accuracy, and boost productivity as machines play pivotal roles. The digital revolution has been the mainstay of automated systems. In the present scenario, AI is soon going to take over mining automation, which would result in a quantum leap in terms of productivity and profitability.

Also Read: Technology Trends For Safer & Smarter Mining Operations In 2023

Advantages of Mining Automation

The blue-collar workforce has been the backbone of the mining industry. Their will and confidence to work in difficult conditions are worth lauding. At the same time, accidents have been normal news in the mining sector. Even though the advancement of technology has effectively decreased accidents in mines, the field is not completely safe yet.

The key advantages of using mining automation are:

Higher Productivity: Autonomous and automated systems function systematically with constant efficiency. All the information is collated by the control units, and the same is analyzed by state-of-the-art analytical systems. The derived data is explored to boost functionality. This ensures higher productivity than the traditional mining process, which has been followed in the past.

Improved Recovery: Human beings have limitations in recovering resources. By eliminating such factors that affect resource recovery, mining automation transforms the mining workforce. The automated systems are incorporated with advanced sensors for gathering data. With such data collected in real time, the machine learning framework can formulate the ideal process for resource recovery.

Maintained (reduced) Operational Expenses: Increased operational expenses impact profit. Mining automation uses AI-based tools and robotics for efficient production. They not only deliver accuracy and a safe working environment but also create a seamless and consistent production line. Staffing can be reduced significantly by employing automated systems as much as possible. The blue-collar workforce will need a good amount of training as well as periodic refreshment coaching. Productivity tends to decrease without a constant push from management's end. Mining automation will aid in reducing operational costs.

Maintenance and Cleaning of Equipment and Premises: Automated mining systems require minimal human interference. The cleaning and maintenance works that were being carried out on a specific schedule can be undertaken anytime, as and when required. In addition to the stipulated schedules, this is advantageous for the maintenance team and beneficial for the management. The status of maintenance will be available with a single click. Letting the facility manager have a better view of the works undertaken, procedures followed, system maintenance due, pending actions, etc.

Better Management of the Entity: The board and management team of the company have to keep a close watch to ensure foolproof management. It is a herculean task to detail personnel, issue directives constantly, and keep watch of the ongoing activities. This is another major way in which mining automation is transforming the mining workforce.

Coordinated Functioning: Minefield operations are complex, often with a lack of clarity on advancements. The communication between the workers, workers supervisors, supervisors, and management is interrupted. Resulting in ambiguities, which might even lead to accidents. Determining the exact position of personnel, the availability and status of equipment, and the level of advancement are not clear more often than not. Automation solutions embodied in innovative software solutions and communication technology eliminate all these shortcomings. Offers a transparent mining operation.

Restructuring of the Mining Sector: The use of cutting-edge technology requires changes in perspectives, in-depth knowledge, and skill to adapt to the situation. Turning a blind eye to modernization will result in the entity getting expelled from the competition. The present team has to be trained to operate, maintain, and control the systems and solutions.

Mining Automation Transforming the Mining Workforce 

Change is the only constant in the world. The mining sector is also witnessing gradual changes aimed at enhancing the safety and productivity of minefields. The digitization of systems, automated solutions, and autonomous facilities is paving the way for a brilliant future. Designing and manufacturing companies in the mining automation sector are investing in in-depth studies and research to overcome minor challenges.

Read and Explore the Insight on Why Is Mining Communication Important?

Autonomous mining systems and equipment already have boosted workflows, elevated efficiency levels, and established transparent functionalities. Each flaw or shortcoming necessitates focused assessment and analysis to identify the root cause and resolution. One-size-fits-all solutions are not possible in this regard.

Embracing mining automation is the most proven step towards growth, profit, and development. The future appears bright for mining automation solutions.

Conclusion

The hammer and pick, also known as the hammer and chisel, has been the logo of the mining sector indicating that mechanical work is the spine of this industry. Although a few companies are still basking in the sun of past glory, many have turned towards automated digital systems, aided by AI technology. The advent of mining automation is changing the landscape of the industry. While there are concerns about job displacement and the economic impact on mining-dependent communities, there is no doubt that automation brings enhanced safety, productivity, and improved working conditions. This is a welcome move, which would transform the mining sector.

To check out advanced mining automation solutions, you may reach out to us.