Epiroc, a leading provider of mining and construction technology, has recently secured significant orders from two mining companies in Australia, focusing on enhancing automated operations through enhanced connectivity solutions. Announced on 16 January 2025, the total value of these contracts exceeds SEK250 million (approximately $22.4 million), and they were booked in the final quarter of 2024.
The orders encompass Long-Term Evolution (LTE) and digital connectivity infrastructure, which consists of telecommunications towers, integrated huts, and associated power systems. This development aims to bolster both safety and productivity in the remote mining environments that heavily rely on reliable, secure, and high-speed data transmission. The connectivity solutions are designed to facilitate a range of applications, including automation processes, fleet management, and the analysis of real-time data.
Helena Hedblom, President and CEO of Epiroc, emphasised the company's commitment to transforming the mining and construction sectors. Speaking to International Mining, Hedblom stated, “We are transforming the mining and construction industries to become safer and more productive. Our wide offering of solutions within automation and digitalisation requires robust and reliable connectivity.” This highlights the critical role that connectivity plays in the deployment of advanced technologies in the industry.
The connectivity solutions being implemented are powered by Radlink, a firm based in Australia that Epiroc acquired a majority stake in during 2022. This acquisition aligns with Epiroc's broader strategic vision to enhance digital solutions that optimise safety and efficiency within the mining sector.
Paul Bergström, President of Epiroc's Digital Solutions division, also discussed the growing demand for digital offerings, remarking, “We are seeing good momentum for our digital solutions, and connectivity is the very foundation for our other advanced digital offerings that support our customers, such as situational awareness and collision avoidance.” This indicates a strong forward momentum in the integration of digital technologies in mining operations, paving the way for increased automation and improved operational standards amidst evolving industry demands.
The projects will extend to both the development of new mining sites and the enhancement of current operations, reflecting the mining industry's ongoing evolution towards fully automated and interconnected systems, utilising advanced technology to meet increasing production and safety standards.
Source: Noah Wire Services