Masoud Aali, Scient Analytics, discusses the importance of intelligence-based automation in making mining operations smarter and more efficient.
At this year’s MINExpo, one message stood out loud and clear: the future of mining is all about automation, and it’s evolving fast. From Caterpillar’s fully autonomous loaders to cutting-edge robotic solutions that enhance safety, automation is reshaping the industry in ways that were once unimaginable.For decades, automation in mining focused on engineering – machines like conveyor belts and robotic arms made work faster, safer, and more efficient. But now, the world is witnessing a shift beyond mechanical systems. The rise of intelligence-based automation means mining technology isn’t just following commands – it is learning, adapting, and making decisions on the fly.In the unpredictable world of ore extraction, this intelligence offers game-changing insights. Imagine real-time adjustments to ore extraction, more accurate grade control, and optimised operations – all powered by advanced AI systems. In an industry where even small improvements can save millions, these intelligent solutions could revolutionise how mines operate. Whether it is predicting supply chain issues or fine-tuning blast grids for maximum efficiency, intelligent automation is unlocking a new level of precision.The mining chain: A perfect fit for automationThe impact of this next-gen automation is felt across the entire mining process – drilling, blasting, loading, hauling, crushing, and refining. Efficiency early in the chain creates a snowball effect, making everything that follows faster, cheaper, and more effective. If ore is separated from waste more accurately at the mining face, it means less material for loaders to handle, leading to more efficient milling, lower energy costs, and better throughput.But using outdated block models and coarse resource estimates can slow everything down. Mining needs real-time data to maximise efficiency, not generalised information that costs time and money. Adopting intelligent systems could eliminate such inefficiencies and help engineers and geologists work together seamlessly.The challenges: Slow adoption, big rewardsDespite its potential, the mining industry has been slow to embrace this tech revolution. One reason is that there is no universal solution – each mine has its own set of challenges. Plus, moving towards a data-driven culture requires a shift in mindset and operations. Intelligent blasthole positioning and advanced ore-waste separation, for example, depend on real-time data to avoid costly errors and delays.Scient, a startup company with a disruptive solution in mining tech, is stepping up to this challenge. Scient’s hardware and software provide real-time insights by analysing drill core samples, ore bodies, and blast hole chips. This level of control allows mines to fine-tune their operations, delivering better results and avoiding the inefficiencies that older models cannot solve. Scient’s tech goes even further by identifying minerals invisible to the human eye, offering precise control over the mining process.The future: Smarter, more efficient minesThe real winners in the automation race will be those who integrate intelligence-based solutions alongside mechanical and cloud-based systems. In an industry where the margins are thin and the stakes are high, smarter operations could mean the difference between success and failure. Mining’s future is one where intelligence and automation work hand-in-hand, making the industry not only more efficient, but smarter and more responsive than ever before.This isn’t just automation – it is a revolution. And the future of mining is more exciting than ever.
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