Ericsson’s Private 5G Network Enhances Mining Safety and Efficiency

Epiroc, Ericsson, and the mine of the future

Mining operations are among the most demanding industrial environments, requiring innovative solutions to improve safety, efficiency, and sustainability. To address these challenges, Ericsson and Epiroc have established a long-term global partnership aimed at helping mining companies automate and digitalize their operations using Private 4G and 5G solutions. Ericsson’s Private 5G networks, purpose-built for industrial applications, deliver the seamless, reliable, and secure connectivity needed to drive digital transformation in mining.

Connectivity Challenges in Mining

Mining operations, both above ground and underground, rely heavily on robust and reliable connectivity to optimize efficiency and safety. However, the unique conditions of mining environments pose significant challenges to achieving seamless communication. From the rugged and remote nature of mining sites to the complex infrastructure of underground tunnels, establishing and maintaining connectivity requires innovative solutions and specialized technologies. In open-pit mining, fluctuating terrain and large-scale operations create difficulties in maintaining consistent network coverage. Conversely, underground mining presents even greater obstacles, such as signal attenuation through dense rock, interference from heavy machinery, and the logistical complexities of deploying equipment in confined spaces. Remote locations further amplify these issues, requiring the construction of new infrastructure in areas with little to no existing connectivity. Despite these challenges, advances in private networks, ruggedized equipment, and adaptive technologies are providing promising pathways to overcoming these obstacles, enabling the mining industry to fully leverage the potential of connectivity for automation and operational

Dynamic and Evolving Connectivity Requirements: Mining operations face unique and evolving connectivity challenges due to their dynamic nature and complex environments.

Above-Ground Mining Connectivity Challenges: Above-ground mining operations face relatively fewer connectivity challenges due to the open environment, but they are not without hurdles:

• Line-of-Sight Dependence: Reliable connectivity requires clear line-of-sight to assets, which can be disrupted by terrain or environmental changes.
• Limited Infrastructure: Remote locations make it challenging to deploy and maintain communication towers and access points.

Underground Mining Connectivity Challenges: Underground mining environments present significant obstacles to reliable communication due to their inherently restrictive physical characteristics:

• Depth and Complexity: Mines often extend several kilometers below the surface and include vast networks of narrow tunnels, creating significant barriers for signal propagation.
• Signal Interruption: Dense rock formations and sharp tunnel corners obstruct communication signals, making consistent connectivity difficult to achieve.
• Machinery Interference: Large steel mining machines further disrupt connectivity, compounding the challenges of maintaining reliable communication channels.
• Environmental Factors: Dust, humidity, and high temperatures common in underground mines also interfere with network equipment and signal reliability.

Challenges in Remote Mining Locations: Mining operations are often situated in remote and isolated regions, far from established infrastructure. These remote locations add another layer of complexity to connectivity:

• Infrastructure Limitations: The absence of pre-existing communication networks necessitates significant investment in new infrastructure.
• Environmental Isolation: Harsh and often inaccessible terrains complicate the installation, maintenance, and expansion of communication systems.

Joint Solutions by Epiroc and Ericsson

Epiroc and Ericsson have joined forces to deliver solutions that address the critical connectivity and safety challenges of modern mining operations. Their partnership enables robust communication and advanced automation in even the most demanding environments, driving improvements in safety, efficiency, and sustainability.

Reliable Communication for Data Utilization

The collaboration facilitates seamless communication in harsh industrial settings, enabling the effective utilization of data for:

• Machine Monitoring: Tracking usage, health, and location of equipment.
• Worker Safety: Ensuring proximity alerts for workers and machines to prevent accidents.

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Automation for Hazardous Environments

Automation plays a pivotal role in safeguarding workers, especially in deep underground mining where extreme conditions like high heat and pressure make human intervention hazardous. Key automation innovations include:

• Teleremote Operations: Machines can be controlled remotely, either from 100–200 meters away or from surface-level air-conditioned offices, keeping workers out of harm’s way.
• 5G-Enabled Remote Control: Advanced 5G connectivity ensures reliable, low-latency control for remote operations, significantly enhancing safety and reducing risks.

By removing personnel from dangerous areas, these technologies have not only saved lives but also improved overall working conditions for mining teams.

Epiroc Cellular-Based Solution and EP5G Network

The partnership has developed and tested an integrated cellular-based solution, combining Epiroc’s advanced technology with Ericsson’s private network solution, EP5G. This architecture supports:

• Automation at scale.
• Digitalization of mining operations.
• Safer and more efficient deployment of technology.

These advancements demonstrate the potential for seamless integration of automation and connectivity in mining environments.

Transforming Mining for a Safer Future

The Epiroc and Ericsson partnership is driving the transformation of the mining sector by addressing connectivity challenges with innovative and collaborative technologies. Their solutions ensure safer, more efficient, and sustainable mining operations, even in the most challenging industrial environments.

AI, Robotics, and 5G: Transforming Mining

The integration of AI, robotics, and 5G is revolutionizing the mining industry by creating seamless systems that enhance safety, efficiency, and scalability. This convergence allows for smarter, more automated operations, unlocking new opportunities for optimizing processes and achieving greater productivity. Together, these technologies are driving the industry toward safer and more sustainable practices.

5G networks are a game-changer for mining automation. Unlike Wi-Fi, which supports only three machines per automation cell, 5G can operate at least 10 machines, with future expansions targeting up to 20. This scalability not only boosts productivity but also provides greater operational flexibility. By enabling more machines to operate simultaneously and reliably, 5G significantly enhances the efficiency of mining processes, supporting both large-scale and modular automation systems.

AI and machine learning add a layer of intelligence to mining operations, complementing robotics and 5G. Predictive maintenance powered by AI identifies potential equipment issues early, preventing costly downtime. Real-time machine health monitoring ensures optimal performance, while advanced data analytics provide actionable insights to refine and optimize processes. These capabilities empower mining companies to make smarter, faster decisions that enhance operational efficiency.

The combination of AI, robotics, and 5G is transforming safety in mining by reducing worker exposure to hazardous environments. Automated systems powered by these technologies can take on high-risk tasks, allowing human workers to focus on safer, value-added activities. Furthermore, data-driven decision-making and resource optimization enable mining companies to achieve more with fewer resources, meeting their growing focus on sustainability and operational excellence.

Scaling Connectivity and Automation in Mining

The integration of advanced connectivity and automation technologies is revolutionizing the mining industry, enabling safer, more efficient, and sustainable operations. By harnessing the power of 4G and 5G networks, mining companies can seamlessly connect machinery, sensors, and personnel, creating a unified ecosystem that enhances productivity and reduces operational risks. These networks facilitate real-time data exchange, enabling autonomous machines to operate with precision and reliability. From remote-controlled drilling equipment to fully automated haulage systems, connectivity plays a critical role in minimizing downtime and maximizing output. Moreover, the scalability of modern telecommunications infrastructure ensures that mines can expand their operations without significant technical or financial hurdles. Through collaboration with technology leaders like Epiroc and Ericsson, the mining sector is rapidly transitioning toward a future where connectivity and automation are the cornerstones of operational excellence.

The Importance of Standards:  Standardization is essential for scalable and reliable mining solutions. Similar to how USB revolutionized tech compatibility, adopting 4G and 5G telecommunications standards allows Epiroc and Ericsson to deliver robust and globally compatible systems. By leveraging these established standards, the mining sector avoids the complexities of developing proprietary protocols, enabling faster deployment and consistent reliability.

Lessons from Successful Deployments: Proven 5G trials, such as operating up to 10 machines seamlessly, set industry benchmarks for automation and connectivity. These successes offer clear blueprints for replication, helping other mining companies reduce implementation time, costs, and risks. The insights gained from these deployments accelerate broader industry adoption and highlight the transformative potential of standardized solutions.

Scalable Solutions for Diverse Needs: Private networks provide flexible, scalable connectivity for mining operations:

• Starting Small: Deploy an on-premises network and expand coverage by adding radios as operations grow.
• Efficient Scaling: Simplified setups allow faster and more cost-effective deployment compared to traditional large-scale systems.

This adaptability makes private networks accessible for mines of all sizes, enabling customized solutions to meet evolving needs while supporting a wide range of applications.

Trends in Mining

The mining industry is undergoing a transformative shift, driven by advancements in automation, digitalization, and electrification. These trends are reshaping operations to improve safety, efficiency, and sustainability while paving the way for smarter and more integrated systems.

Why Private 5G for mining operations?

Ericsson’s private 5G solutions provide key features tailored to the demands of mining operations:

• High Performance: With dedicated spectrum and dual-mode core technology supporting 4G and 5G, Ericsson’s networks ensure scalability and flexibility for evolving needs.
• Low Latency and High Bandwidth: These features support critical applications such as autonomous vehicles, sensor networks, and remote monitoring.
• Secure Data Isolation: Ensures sensitive mining data remains within the enterprise’s infrastructure, reducing exposure to cyber threats.
• Adaptability: Flexible connectivity accommodates the dynamic and evolving layouts of mines, ensuring consistent performance.

Partnerships Driving Mining Innovation

Ericsson’s commitment to transforming mining operations is exemplified through strategic partnerships with industry leaders. By leveraging private 5G networks, these collaborations enable cutting-edge technologies, driving safer, more efficient, and scalable solutions across diverse mining environments. These partnerships showcase the real-world impact of advanced connectivity on modernizing mining operations and achieving digital transformation goals.

Boliden’s Kankberg Mine partnership with Telia

Ericsson, in collaboration with Telia, has upgraded Boliden’s Kankberg mine’s connectivity as part of the NorthStar 5G initiative. This partnership focuses on modernizing underground mining operations by leveraging private 5G capabilities, enhancing operational efficiency, safety, and the integration of autonomous technologies. Additional insights can be found at TeckNexus and Telia’s news release.

• Enhanced Autonomous Vehicle Operations: The upgraded network supports remote-controlled and autonomous vehicles, optimizing the use of drill rigs, haul trucks, and other machinery within the mine. The low-latency connectivity ensures precise control and coordination, reducing the risk of accidents and improving productivity.
• Network Slicing and Edge Computing: By incorporating network slicing and edge computing, the private 5G network at Kankberg ensures that each piece of equipment receives the exact network resources it needs without interruption. This optimization enhances reliability and ensures critical data is prioritized.
• Improved Safety and Efficiency: Boliden’s use of private 5G connectivity has significantly improved location tracking and real-time data communication within the mine, leading to faster response times in critical situations and more streamlined operations overall.

Newmont Corporation’s Cadia Mine partnership with Telstra

Newmont Corporation, a global leader in gold mining, partnered with Ericsson and Telstra Purple to replace its existing Wi-Fi systems with private 5G networks at the Cadia mine in Australia. This move has transformed the company’s mining operations, delivering substantial improvements in reliability, safety, and productivity. Learn more about Newmont’s initiative through TeckNexus coverage and Newmont’s Trial of Underground 5G at Cadia Mine Delivers Strong Results.

• Superior Connectivity and Performance: Newmont’s private 5G network achieved remarkable gains in connectivity, with upload speeds reaching approximately 90 Mbps in underground access drives and up to 500 Mbps in surface operations. This leap in network performance ensures reliable operation of autonomous machinery and high-speed data transfer.
• Minimized Safety Risks: By eliminating unreliable Wi-Fi connections, Newmont reduced the risk of false automation safety stops and disruptions, thereby enhancing operational safety. The 5G network supports simultaneous operation of more remote-controlled and autonomous machines, improving overall productivity.
• Scalability and Future Expansion: The success of the Cadia trial has prompted Newmont to expand 5G technology across its global network of tier-one mines. This expansion aims to further boost mining safety and operational efficiency, setting a new industry standard for connectivity-driven innovation.