5 Ways Advanced Mining Technology Can Improve Your Worksite

Mining is an industry that has always been driven by new, innovative forms of technology. From the early days of a pick and shovel, through to the development of dynamite and mechanical drills, miners have found workflows to be both safer and simplified through the development of new tools and methods.

Looking towards the future, the widespread introduction of technology such as automation, digitisation, artificial intelligence and virtual reality is expected to propel the sector forward still, bringing with it a range of benefits for both personnel and companies.

In case you are not already on board, keep reading to discover the top 5 reasons that you should consider incorporating innovative mining technology into your workplace.

1. Labour cost and productivity

Labour costs are traditionally quite high for mining companies, with many sites working around the clock in order to meet project deadlines.

Automated technology promises to change this, allowing companies to remove personnel from certain working environments and replace them with robots — who don’t require breaks or lose precious time through shift changeovers.

2. Safety

Safety is a top priority on a mine site. Certain jobs and working environments carry with them inherent risk and companies are always looking for ways to reduce the likelihood of any danger befalling their workers.

One of the biggest benefits of automated technology is the ability to remove personnel from certain situations that are of greater risk. Mining technology that can be controlled remotely will reduce the exposure of mine workers to hazardous environments — increasing efficiency and protecting lives.

3. Increased yield of resources

One of the greatest challenges confronting mining in the 21st century is increasing resource output in order to meet global demand. Clean technologies such as wind, solar and geothermal power require the production of minerals including graphite, lithium and cobalt. It is estimated that demand for these resources could increase by as much as 500% by 2050.

1. 3D modelling, data visualisation and planning of projects — driven by new technology — is expected to allow for increased yield of resources to serve the global market.
2. Personnel

The introduction of automation onto mine sites often prompts discussion as to the effects that this will have on jobs. Many towns, individuals and families rely on mine work to live sustainably and make ends meet.

Whilst automation may result in a reduction of some frontline jobs, it is expected that it will bring about increased hiring across a range of industries including engineering, geoscience and information technology.

Many mining companies have also committed to reskilling workers, to reduce the impact of job losses and create new opportunities for individuals.

5. Reduced waste

The evolution of waste management technology is one method through which the mining industry is committed to implementing sustainable work practices.

For example, new technology has facilitated the rise of "green mining", which involves using microorganisms to extract metals from rock ores or mine waste.

As demonstrated, mining technology has the potential to bring about substantial improvements in workflow processes, resulting in considerable financial benefits. In order to remain a competitive player within the industry, you should certainly consider investing in innovation.

In summary, automated mining equipment is here to stay. Mining is another step closer towards a safer and more profitable industry and it is set to shake up the future of the industry.