Metal & Mining
Discover how innovation is shaping the future, optimizing operations, and driving sustainable growth in the Metal & Mining industry. From intelligent extraction methods to streamlined supply chains, the industry is poised for transformative change.
Robotics and IoT are gradually transforming the metal and mining industry into a safer and more productive environment. Use cases include drilling, blasting, loading, hauling, bolting mine roofs, ore samplings, etc., using AI-powered robotic devices. As the industry moves towards full automation of plants and equipment, the deployment of robots in hazardous working areas will significantly enhance workplace safety. Condition Monitoring Systems (CMS) and Augmented Reality (AR) will facilitate maintenance activities, optimizing processes through artificial intelligence based on Big Data and rule-based Through-Process Optimization.
The cost of data acquisition, storage, and analysis has substantially decreased, leading to the availability of multiple digital solutions that are relatively inexpensive to implement. Companies can initiate smaller-scale pilot tests focusing on a single business unit, asset, or geographic market to prove the value of digital approaches and build internal confidence and alignment. Predictive analytics has revolutionized the operational model, providing accurate and richer demand forecasts by breaking down demand into component drivers.
Wearable sensors continuously monitor worker behavior, generating real-time data for analysis to identify problematic trends and recommend targeted remedial training in a simulator-based environment. Cameras capturing videos during the mining process can automatically monitor mine-site personnel for safety, security, and process analysis. Simulation tools support mining companies in optimizing training interventions tailored to individual worker needs.
Machine learning enhances image recognition, allowing rock samples and drilling data to automatically determine the type of discovered minerals accurately. Smart sorting, powered by AI algorithms using color sensors and X-ray data, improves the quality and quantity of mineral recovery processes. Deep neural networks, utilizing vast amounts of data for learning, enhance image and speech recognition, offering better-grade ore and potential cost savings in the mining industry. The speed of data management through neural networks enables real-time systems to quickly recognize potential problems or dangers during the mining process, improving both mining costs and safety levels.
Collaborative Robotics
The metal & mining industry has a history with robotics, primarily using them for tasks deemed too dangerous for human workers. However, the evolution of robotics technology has led to the development of collaborative robots, or cobots, that can work safely alongside human team members. These cobots are particularly well-suited for handling dangerous or tedious tasks in the industry.
Implementing Automation and CNC Machines
In the metal industry, computer numerical control (CNC) machines play a crucial role. Traditionally, they required human intervention and programming. However, with the implementation of automation, particularly in the CNC processes of metal fabrication, some of the repetitive tasks can be eliminated. This incorporation of automation enhances efficiency and overall productivity in the long term.
Embracing Digitisation
The metal fabrication industry has been relatively slow in embracing digitization compared to other sectors. However, it's crucial to recognize that incorporating a technology-based platform doesn't imply the elimination of the human factor. Instead, it represents a positive step toward enhancing efficiency and productivity. Business owners in the metal fabrication sector should seize this opportunity to embrace digitization and leverage the available tools for improved operations.
The Future of Mining is Smart
The applications of artificial intelligence in the mining industry are vast and diverse. With the ongoing Green Revolution increasing the demand for raw materials like silicon for solar PV panels and lithium for batteries, AI plays a crucial role in transforming raw materials mining from a people-oriented operation to a process-oriented one. This shift is essential for ensuring health and safety conditions for mineworkers, achieving high accuracy, eliminating errors, and facilitating faster decision-making processes. As the mining sector embraces more effective and efficient operations, including autonomous mining, there's a growing need for investments in various artificial intelligence technologies. Faster decision-making is vital for creating a safer environment for frontline mineworkers. AI, with real-time quality data and analytics, can predict process failures, prevent accidents, and enhance overall safety. Combining pattern matching and predictive analytics allows for more precise predictions and helps prevent costly mistakes by accurately mapping out the terrain. AI's role in ventilation optimization is noteworthy, as it addresses the significant energy costs associated with underground mines. By forecasting energy peaks and enabling automatic adjustments of ventilation systems, AI contributes to reducing the overall energy consumption of mine sites. Drones and machine learning-based computer vision are increasingly used for continuous monitoring of mining operations and their impact on the surrounding ecosystem. In conclusion, AI-related technologies offer substantial benefits to the mining industry in terms of profitability, safety, and environmental impact.