29 MAY 2017
The evolution of digital applications in the mining sector has become crucial to the optimisation of mine sites and the companies that run them. The convergence of multiple technologies has born a new term known as Internet of Things (IOT). This newly adopted phrase has become more commonly used and encompasses technologies such as wireless communications, real-time analytics, machine learning, commodity sensors, machine automation and embedded systems. These digital technologies allow mine sites to reach new levels of performance across the entire mining value chain by storing and analysing the data created. Once consolidated, powerful analytics are run that enable predicative maintenance to be scheduled and highlights areas of improvement that enable the users and business to make informed decisions in real time.
This shift to digital enablement has also had significant impact on safety outcomes. Systems now have the ability to not only monitor the output of the user but also their fatigue levels, alerting both the user and the remote office of any issues. The detection of hazardous situations and machine malfunctions also aid in the ability to keep staff safe at all times.
The implementation of digital applications has become more cost effective over the years and has seen this technology more widely adopted by the industry and it has had a substantial impact on the way businesses operate. The challenge for the sector has been and will continue to be selecting the right technology that makes the best use of the data for that specific situation. Advancements in these areas are changing at such a rapid rate that companies are constantly looking at what will give them the edge. Suppliers in consultation with their customers are striving to better integrate these technologies and there is truly limitless possibilities of where these advancements will take the sector.
Written by: Sam Martin