Artificial intelligence is revolutionizing the mining industry by transforming and streamlining everyday operations to expand the reach of company digital solutions, thereby improving efficiency and safety. In this article, we will take a look at how artificial intelligence can be used in the mining sector and which companies are currently at the forefront of this trend.
Autonomous vehicles
One of the most exciting applications of AI in mining is the use of autonomous vehicles. These vehicles help improve safety by removing the need for workers to enter dangerous areas. Komatsu is a standout company in this space, known for its smart mining strategy. They focus on improving efficiency while keeping safety at the forefront. Komatsu offers a range of electric mining trucks, with capacities ranging from 30 to 400 tonnes. These trucks are designed for both construction and mining, helping customers achieve productivity goals while pushing the boundaries of innovation in areas like suspension systems, transmissions, and autonomous technology.
Decision support systems
AI also helps improve decision-making in mining by offering better insights into worker safety, process optimization, and cost reduction. For example, Anglo American, a major player in the industry, has been integrating AI to support its sustainability goals. By using AI for mineral exploration and resource estimation, the company can more accurately pinpoint mining sites. This not only makes the decision-making process smarter but also supports safety, efficiency, and environmental responsibility.
Ore sorting
Another valuable use of AI is in ore sorting. AI systems can quickly and accurately separate valuable minerals from waste rock, leading to higher recovery rates and reduced processing costs. A great example of this is Vale, which opened its first AI center in Espírito Santo in 2020. Vale uses AI to analyze ore samples, helping determine the best sorting methods. This approach has significantly boosted mineral recovery and improved safety and environmental practices at their mining sites.
Safety and risk assessments
AI is also being used to enhance safety at mining operations. By identifying potential hazards before they become problems, AI helps create safer work environments. AI-powered systems, like those from Tomorrow.io, can predict weather conditions and offer insights that allow mining companies to make more informed decisions. These technologies also optimize risk management, ensuring that mining operations can proceed safely and efficiently.
Predictive maintenance
AI-driven predictive maintenance is another game-changer. By monitoring key variables and analyzing usage patterns, AI can predict when equipment is likely to fail. This allows companies to address issues before they cause downtime or safety risks. ABB Global is a leader in this space, offering its ABB Ability Predictive Maintenance service. This tool provides real-time dashboards and reports on asset conditions, helping mining operators make quick repairs and avoid unnecessary maintenance.
Exploration
When it comes to exploration, AI is helping companies find new mining sites more efficiently. By processing large datasets, AI algorithms can pinpoint promising targets and deliver insights that speed up the exploration process. Barrick Gold has been using AI in this area for years, analyzing geological and geophysical data to improve the effectiveness of their drilling operations.
Environmental data
AI is also playing a crucial role in reducing the environmental impact of mining. It helps analyze data more quickly and accurately, identifying ways to optimize operations while considering environmental factors. BHP, in partnership with Microsoft, is using AI to enhance copper production. By analyzing real-time data from copper concentrators and applying machine learning with Azure, they can make smarter, more sustainable decisions.
Energy optimization
Finally, AI is being used to optimize energy consumption in mining, uncovering opportunities for energy savings through data analysis. Rio Tinto has been a pioneer in this area, setting up Centres of Excellence focused on automation, analytics, asset management, and energy efficiency. These efforts are helping the company reduce energy consumption and address climate challenges while keeping mining operations running safely and efficiently.
