The economics and profitability of mining operations depend on the efficient use of all resources, components and processes. Automation and digitalization can help to improve the bottom line and make mining operations more efficient. Through the intelligent use of process data from different sources, companies can, for example, monitor power consumption, system parameters and operating states in real time.
By Dr. Kilian Neubert
Mining companies are constantly working to increase the productivity and efficiency of ongoing operations to meet the ever-growing demands of the market. This requires a finely tuned coordination of all processes as well as the identification of bottlenecks in the entire value chain – from extraction to conveying, processing and transport of the material. All processes have to run smoothly and without interruption to ensure security, reliability and high availability. Efficient allocation and reliable operation of all machines, systems and processes is a prerequisite. Downtimes at individual stations or important interfaces – or in the worst case total production failures – drive up costs and must be avoided. In addition, occupational safety always has to be guaranteed.
The prices of many commodities are currently at all-time highs. Mining companies are investing in technology to maintain and expand their operations and processing capabilities, and to future-proof their existing operations. Automation and digitization play an important role in this, but so do innovations that reduce the environmental impact of mining. Machines and systems as well as production processes must therefore be analyzed thoroughly.
The careful use of natural resources is a much-discussed topic – mining is no exception. The mining industry has therefore placed climate protection, environmental protection and resource-saving production processes at the top of its agenda. Digitization and automation are also being promoted. By streamlining their processes, optimizing logistics and improving maintenance, mines can significantly reduce their energy requirements and lower their costs.
Mining companies have to keep a close eye on productivity, efficiency and cost savings to stay profitable. When looking to the future, they need to consider many factors, including shifts in supply and demand and changes in technology. They must ensure that the goods they offer continue to meet the needs of tomorrow’s consumers. In addition, they must keep an eye on new growth segments that arise due to changes in services and products. Automation and digitization are currently driving this change. Like companies in many other industries, mining companies have to open up to new business models and use modern technologies to save costs. In order to increase their productivity, they need to systematically review their processes and update their equipment.
For example, after mining, raw materials must be transported to a processing plant or port, often over long distances, over difficult terrain, or through populated areas. This is usually done by truck, but troughed belt conveyors or closed tube conveyors can also be an environmentally friendly and cost-effective alternative. What is the most economical solution? Will a particular investment pay off? The answer depends on a variety of factors.
Experienced equipment supplier like BEUMER can support mining customers in finding and designing the optimum system from a wide range of technological solutions. On this basis, mining companies can identify the most sustainable solution that will help make their mining operations more efficient and future-proof.
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