IoT.nxt offers a way to future-proof your mining operation. A system of interconnected devices and sensors that can be retrofitted onto existing machinery and “things” to collect and share data which can be used to improve safety and efficiency in mining operations. This data can be used to make real-time decisions about when to shut down operations or make in-flight changes and gives mine decision-makers, operators, and owners the insight and means to improve planning and gain control of their mining operations, from anywhere in the world.
Bypassing Human Error with IoT
The mining sector still relies on multiple manual and paper-based systems for entry. Manual data entry means an increased risk of human error. By implementing IoT to replace manual data capture, such as system-to-machine communication, and using advanced analytics on the data created, mining companies improve operational efficiency and reduce the risk of human error.
ESG (Environment, Social, Governance) Tracking
Beyond operational efficiency, IoT solutions can also help reduce regulatory risk. For example, when it comes to environmental compliance in the mining sector, there is a lot of focus on carbon emissions, utility usage such as water and power usage, together with water quality and impact on the biological ecosystem. IoT solutions can help monitor such parameters and more, to ensure compliance reporting is based on actual data, providing alerts to ESG systems, notifying key stakeholders of any potential risk
Real-time Asset Tracking
Running large fleets of heavy-duty equipment that are used to transport commodities in the complete and incomplete state offers multiple challenges. This equipment typically includes heavy-duty haul trucks, loaders, excavators, and front-end shovels. To ensure safe operation, the equipment needs to be regularly inspected by trained professionals who follow a strict set of guidelines. If a piece of equipment is considered unsafe, it needs to be taken out of service until it can be repaired.
In addition to maintenance and inspection, mining companies need to be able to track their equipment in real-time, to prevent theft and ensure safe operation. It requires people to input information into spreadsheets and databases, which again can lead to errors. To track this equipment, mining companies often use asset tags, which are manually entered into an asset tracker. The asset tracker is usually connected to a database and spreadsheet, which increases the risk of human error. With IoT.nxt’s solutions, this is replaced with direct integration into the vehicle systems with edge device capabilities.
Digital Twins – A step into the digital age
Mines can use Digital Twins to gain better insight into the data available about their operations, including the status of equipment and infrastructure. Receive clear, visualized information that allows for data-driven decision-making, removing the inefficiency of manual inspections and troubleshooting. Set alert automation workflows for triggers that you define. For example: Receive a notification when a vehicle is started out of its planned shift. This and more, all through a single screen.
Smart Mining Equipment
As mining companies are increasingly adopting IoT solutions, equipment is becoming more connected. This allows companies to gather valuable insights into the operational health of their equipment and make informed decisions about preventative maintenance and repairs. This also helps monitor the operational status of their equipment in real-time to ensure safe operation, prevent unplanned downtime, and meet regulatory compliance requirements.
Continuous Process Improvement
Mining operations are often complex and involve many workers and various heavy-duty machines. There are a few ways in which IoT can help improve the mining process and overall operations:
Predictive maintenance
Mining companies can use IoT solutions to monitor and analyse equipment data to forecast when certain pieces of equipment will require maintenance. This helps prevent unplanned downtime and repair costs.
Visibility into operational data
Gain better visibility and insights into operational data such as the flow of materials, human resource activities, and equipment utilization. This helps improve operational efficiency and increase productivity through optimized resource utilization.
Real-time safety and operational alerts
Real-time monitoring and alerting enable mining operations to respond to potential problems in real-time to potentially prevent accidents and unplanned downtime.
Mine gold from data
Operational data insight is gold and through it, you will be able to achieve a more sustainable, efficient, and safe mine, thus futureproofing your mining operations.
Propel modernization with IoT.nxt’s Heavy Industry Solutions.
Contact our sales team today and get your mine digitized: [email protected]