“…data can be integrated with other digital tools to support real-time decision-making, helping companies streamline their operations and reduce costs while minimizing environmental harm.”
THE MINING industry is undergoing a significant transformation through digitalization, integrating advanced technologies such as satellite monitoring and digital infrastructure software to enhance efficiency, safety, and sustainability.
By leveraging these innovations, mining companies can optimize operations, reduce environmental impacts, and improve regulatory compliance. This technological shift is especially crucial as the global demand for critical minerals, like copper and nickel, continues to rise, driven by the growth of industries such as electric vehicles and renewable energy.
Digitalization and satellite technology in mining
The use of satellite technology in mining allows companies to monitor large and remote mining sites in real-time. Satellites provide high-resolution images and data that can be used for mapping, exploration, and environmental monitoring. For instance, satellite imagery helps identify mineral deposits, monitor deforestation, and track land use changes, offering a more sustainable and efficient approach to mining operations. Additionally, satellite-based systems can detect geological risks, such as landslides or subsidence, enabling proactive safety measures.
This data can be integrated with other digital tools to support real-time decision-making, helping companies streamline their operations and reduce costs while minimizing environmental harm. The ability to remotely monitor site conditions also improves transparency and compliance with environmental regulations, as well as enhances corporate social responsibility initiatives.
Bentley Systems and digital infrastructure in mining
Bentley Systems, a global leader in infrastructure engineering software, has made significant strides in providing digital solutions to the mining industry. Bentley’s software solutions focus on improving the design, construction, and operation of mining infrastructure through digital twin technology, real-time monitoring, and 3D modeling.
In 2023, Seequent, known as Bentley Subsurface Company, unveiled an insights paper, Beyond the Hype: How Technology Can Drive Mining Operations’ Performance, that explores how emerging technologies can be applied across the mining sector, addressing both the challenges of implementation and the significant benefits they offer.
The insights paper features contributions from thought leaders across the industry, including experts from AngloGold Ashanti, Hecla Mining, IntelliSense.io, RockMass Technologies, and Seequent itself. The content was shaped by discussions at an industry forum hosted by Seequent and moderated by Emily King, founder and CEO of Prospector. The paper’s introduction was provided by Pieter Neethling, Seequent’s Segment Director for Mining Operations.
The paper emphasizes that accurate data is crucial to modern mining operations. Mining companies increasingly rely on geological data to make critical decisions. With advancements in digital tools, companies now have access to enhanced modeling capabilities, along with artificial intelligence (AI) and digital twins, to drive more agile and efficient operations. The integration of these technologies enables better decision-making, faster response times, and greater operational flexibility.
Another key theme in the paper is the growing need for safety and sustainability. As mining companies seek to secure future investments, it’s clear that adopting new technologies that support environmental sustainability, such as those aimed at reducing emissions, will be critical to meeting net-zero targets. A focus on the long-term benefits of these innovations, particularly in improving operational safety and efficiency, will be essential.
Industry collaboration
In addition, the paper highlights the importance of industry collaboration and standardization to facilitate the integration of digital workflows. Mining companies face significant challenges in adopting new technologies, especially when users are hesitant to move away from familiar methods. As noted by Dr.
Grant Kopec, VP of Global Field Operations at IntelliSense, one of the main hurdles is overcoming user resistance when new systems encounter data quality or reliability issues. To ensure the successful adoption of emerging technologies, companies must provide extensive support and training.
Several industry experts contributed their perspectives on the future of mining technology. Matt Blattman, Director of Technical Services at Hecla Mining, stressed the need for the mining industry to invest more in research and development. According to Blattman, companies that embrace innovation and allocate resources to new solutions will ultimately drive progress in the sector.
One major advancement cited in the paper is the development of software that allows mining operations to more efficiently georeference and map the mine face in 3D. Shelby Yee, Founder and CEO of RockMass Technologies, explained that this technology enables the capture of higher-quality data in real-time, allowing geologists to make more informed decisions. The technology is being applied not only to underground operations but also to surface operations, where it can be integrated with drone scans for more accurate profiles and structural data. This innovation has the potential to improve blasting fragmentation, enhance grade control, cut costs, increase productivity, and, most importantly, improve safety.
Another focus of the paper is the role of electric vehicles (EVs) in underground mining operations. Marcelo Godoy, Chief Technology Officer at AngloGold Ashanti, pointed out that EVs reduce the need for ventilation in underground mines by cutting diesel particulate matter and heat. Godoy also discussed the future possibilities for advanced robotics and autonomous systems, predicting that by 2050, many mines will be fully automated and operated by robots as the industry strives to achieve net-zero emissions.
A key element of Bentley’s approach is its iTwin platform, which enables the creation of digital twins—virtual representations of physical mining assets. This allows mining companies to visualize and manage their operations more effectively by simulating the real-world conditions of their sites. The platform integrates data from various sources, including satellite images, sensors, and geospatial information, to create comprehensive models of mining operations. This facilitates better planning, maintenance, and risk management.
Bentley’s software is also instrumental in improving the environmental sustainability of mining projects. For example, their solutions help track emissions, energy use, and water management in mining operations. By analyzing this data, companies can optimize resource use and reduce their environmental footprint. Moreover, Bentley’s infrastructure software aids in the rehabilitation of mining sites, ensuring compliance with environmental standards and helping companies meet their sustainability goals.
