Wireless network requirements for the successful implementation of automation and other innovative technologies in open-pit mining

Abstract

Automation and other innovative technologies are being implemented into the mining industry to improve production efficiency, reduce maintenance costs and improve reliability. This article highlights the wireless networking requirements for the successful implementation of these technologies and addresses some of the issues with existing networks. Alternative wireless technologies are considered and compared before investigating the impact of automation on the requirements of the networks. Future technologies are considered and predicted using Nielsen’s Law and Moore’s Law. Recommendations are given for how the mining industry must adapt to successfully implement innovative technologies as well as giving predictions of the consequence of failing to do so.

Keywords:

• automation
• wireless communications
• Wi-Fi
• dispatch
• health monitoring
• surface mining

Disclosure statement

No potential conflict of interest was reported by the authors.