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huge amounts of data to be collected , which can then be sophistically analysed to reveal any operational bottlenecks and cost inefficiencies . Technology , such as autonomous haulage and drilling systems , has been shown to have an immediate impact , achieving higher utilization , resulting in more engine hours and more tons of material to be moved per day . Due to their programmed nature , tire life is also significantly improved with vehicle collisions and sidewall punctures being completely avoided . Analytics can also generate predictive maintenance schedules so equipment can be swiftly taken offline at a convenient time and serviced without causing the need for a major breakdown bringing operations to a stop .
Digital twin technology can transform how companies operate even further . Using data from every device , sensor and application within the mine , it is possible to create a digital replica which is kept up to date with data flowing in from the field in real-time . This enables any proposed changes or additions to the site to be tested with a great deal of accuracy before physical on site implementation . This technology is being adopted at a rapid rate , as operators save millions of dollars by eliminating any errors prior to installation .
Mining has long been one of the most world ’ s most dangerous professions . The Connected Mine drastically improves safety as the most hazardous jobs can be performed autonomously , keeping staff out of harms away . Meanwhile , work site surveillance provided via video CCTV systems and analytics play a key role in keeping employees safe , as unlike human supervisors , cameras and data processing platforms never sleep or get distracted .
The health of people living near the mine is equally important . The same surveillance and analytic capabilities enable mines to monitor their environmental impact and take pre-emptive action to prevent harm to nearby communities . Technology offers significant opportunities for mines across Africa to transform their operations and boost performance .
High-quality connectivity is essential The Connected Mine can only be successful if there is robust , reliable connectivity . This places special requirements on the network and requires a fully managed service that can seamlessly integrate a mix of communication technologies , including microwave , Wi-Fi and satellite services . It also needs to be intelligent and able to dynamically select the best price performance at any time to avoid stranded capacity or transmission bottlenecks .
The network must also be able to deliver extreme uptime and be highly secure to protect the sensitive information that is always being transmitted . It also needs to support critical enterprise applications such as e-learning to remote management and have installation services , field maintenance and technical support accessible worldwide .
Incorporating private LTE solutions such as the Nokia Digital Automation Cloud ( DAC ), provided by Speedcast , will enable a private wireless network that can support every application and system operating within any mine , regardless of the environment or remoteness . To enable smart manufacturing , predictive maintenance , remote operations and machine-to-machine communication , a high-quality network is essential .
Success for the long term With mining starting to recover from COVID-19 in Africa , it is now a good time for operators to embrace digital transformation and the benefits it can bring . With remote management more of a priority now than ever before , it is imperative they look at incorporating the Connected Mine to totally rejuvenate their processes with increased productivity and safety .
To do this successfully , they need solutions that guarantee high quality communications and connectivity to manage all of the applications running at the mine and ensure access to the outside world for vital information , entertainment and news . This will protect the recovery of Africa ’ s mining industry with technology affording greater efficiency and return on investment alongside all the benefits remote management , automation and detailed insights can provide . The operators that utilize technology today , will guarantee their success for the long term and be one step ahead of their competitors at what is a crucial time for the industry .
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