Why is connectivity vital to the future of the mining industry?
Mining environments are among the most demanding in the world. There’s a reason why we’ve already deployed 800 km of private LTE/5G networks in underground mines in over ten countries: the need for connectivity is critical. Between extreme conditions and constant safety challenges, an unconnected mine exposes workers and companies to considerable risks. Yet many of these risks could be greatly mitigated, and even avoided, with robust, reliable connectivity, on which the future of the mining industry may well depend.
1. Compromised security: a constant (and possibly fatal) risk for workers
Without a reliable communications infrastructure, it’s difficult to monitor the status of workers, equipment and the mining environment in real time. A large part of production is carried out “blind”, which entails major dangers such as:
- Collapses and landslides: With an imprecise communication system, detecting, preventing and even evacuating these incidents becomes complex, increasing the risk of serious injury or loss of life.
- Toxic gas emissions: The lack of connected sensors limits the rapid detection of gases such as methane, threatening the lives of miners.
- Collisions: In underground mines, heavy vehicles and automated equipment often travel in restricted areas. Without real-time tracking, collisions remain a major threat. What’s more, network reliability and speed are vital, since video transmission from remotely operated equipment must be instantaneous.
An unconnected mine deprives operators of instant visibility of these hazards, limiting the ability to act quickly and effectively.
2. Productivity limited by a lack of real-time data
In an unconnected mine, data is often collected manually or via isolated systems. This can lead to :
- Delays in decision-making: teams on the field lack immediate information to react to changes.
- Reactive rather than preventive maintenance: Without connected sensors, equipments break down before problems can be identified.
- Equipment loss: Without a tracking system, equipment is sometimes left behind or forgotten in remote areas, leading to delays and replacement costs.
- Wasted resources: “Dead” periods, such as nights or weekends, go unused due to the absence of automated operations.
This lack of connectivity holds back operational efficiency and increases costs for mining companies.
3. Labour shortage: a challenge compounded by arduous working conditions
The shortage of skilled labor in remote areas is a growing problem for the mining industry. Without connectivity :- Working conditions remain unchanged: Workers have to operate in hostile environments, far from their families, making the job less attractive.
- Remote operation becomes impossible: Connectivity enables operators to control machines remotely, often from a location several miles from the mine site. This improves both working conditions and the attractiveness of the profession.
By transforming mining into a modern, technological profession, connected mines can appeal to a new generation of workers.
Ventilation on demand (which saves enormous amounts of energy) is not possible in an unconnected underground mine. The operating costs associated with ventilation in an underground mine are very high.
4. Neglected Cybersecurity and Data Control
Mines with unreliable connectivity often rely on public or decentralized systems for their operations. This creates high risks:
- Exposure to cyber-attacks: Critical data is vulnerable, which can disrupt operations or compromise sensitive information.
- Lack of control: Companies lose control over their own data, crucial for optimizing operations and regulatory compliance.
With private LTE or 5G networks, data remains under the exclusive autonomy of the enterprise, offering enhanced security and total confidence.
How does Ambra’s solutions meet these challenges?
Ambra Solutions offers private LTE and 5G networks and solutions specifically designed to meet mines’ unique needs. These technologies transform mining operations through :
- Uninterrupted real-time connectivity: Workers and equipment always remain connected to the network, ensuring instant and fluid voice and video communication.
- Remote operation and automation: Machines can be operated remotely, increasing safety, productivity and workforce attractiveness.
- Advanced monitoring: Connected sensors can detect gas emissions, and temperature, monitor the condition of equipment and prevent collisions, to name but a few.
- Enhanced cyber security: private networks protect your sensitive data from external threats.
- Fast, informed decision-making: With data centralized and viewable in real-time, management can react quickly to operational challenges and have full control over their data.
The bottom line? The future of mining is connected!
In an industry where the margins for error are slim and the stakes are high, an unconnected mine is simply no longer a viable option. Private LTE and 5G networks offer a complete solution to make operations safer, improve productivity and attract a skilled workforce.
With Ambra Solutions, you benefit from cutting-edge technology that redefines everyday mining. Connect your mine and get a head start on the future of the industry.