The 6th Mining 4.0 Summit was held from 6th – 7th November 2024 in Barcelona, Spain, with industry leaders, innovators, and experts coming together to drive the agenda further into the transformative power of digitalization, automation, and technology for mining. Furthermore, this comprehensive event offered a dynamic exchange, new and innovative solutions, and great networking opportunities. So, the article delves into the key sessions and the event’s distinguished partners who played a crucial role in shaping the summit’s success.
What Was Covered in The Sessions At The 6th Mining 4.0 Summit?
The 6th Mining 4.0 Summit was a comprehensive platform for industry leaders, technology innovators, & mining professionals. This is to present mining industry insights on digital transformation, solutions to the changing challenges within the industry, and more. So, let us examine the aspects that were presented in the sessions providing huge benefits to the attendees:
The Barroso Lithium Project, Savannah’s Contribution to Europe’s Energy Transition
Emanuel PROENÇA, CEO of Savannah Resources, presented the Barroso Lithium Project including its facts & figures and details about Savannah. Furthermore, the speaker went deep into why Europe needs domestic lithium production. Moreover, the session covered timelines, ambitions, and opportunities.
Non-intrusive and Wireless Instrumentation Is Crucial to Minimize Personnel And Optimize Mining Operations
This session was taken by the following speakers:
– Ebru YILDIZ, Sales Manager, Measurement Solutions, Emerson
– Sergei MISHIN, Sales Director OEM Europe, Measurement Solutions, Emerson
– Mathias GEHL, Global Industry Manager for the Metals & Mining, Pulp & Paper and PAT, Emerson
They talked about how minimum personnel on mining sites is the way to safety and profitability. Furthermore, they discussed the importance of non-intrusive and wireless instrumentation in optimizing operations. Moreover, they talked about Emerson’s flexible solutions that are made especially for mining operations along with real examples with values for typical digital mining processes and technological units.
Optimizing Mining Operations With Geospatial AI: From Exploration to Extraction
Martina LOFQVIST, Head of Strategy and Partnerships, Picterra, explained how geospatial AI can be applied to optimize mining operations. This is from exploration to extraction, by exploiting data and sophisticated analytics. Moreover, the speaker demonstrated the use of AI-enabled tools. This assists better decision-making, enhances operational efficiency, and lowers environmental footprint across the mining life-cycle.
Managing Geohazards to Obtain Sustainable Mining in the Era of Big Data: Challenges And Opportunities
Kostas BOTSIALAS, founder and owner of AuroraGeo Consulting, discussed if the big data era stands to be a blessing or a curse. Furthermore, the speaker covered why it is necessary to manage geohazards in mining along with the management of it and the iceberg theory. Additionally, the speaker covered short-term mining plans and long-term planning for geohazard management to gain sustainable mining.
Technology to Address the Challenges in Industrial Minerals Resource Planning: Imerys Approach
Mark SCRUTTON, Group Mine Planning Director, Imerys, outlined the company’s approach to the needs in industrial minerals resource planning. Furthermore, the speaker emphasized the need for engaging stakeholders, operational effectiveness, and stewardship of the land. This is as a way to address the specific challenges in industrial minerals resource planning.
Innovation in Action: Delivering Cost And Sustainability Benefits with Biodegradable Lubricants And Advanced Analytics Solutions
Elitza TERZOVA, Global Sector Manager Mining at Shell, highlighted the company’s innovations in biodegradable lubricants and advanced analytics solutions. The speaker also explained how these developments can benefit mining companies in terms of both environmental performance and industrial efficiency.
Implementing Technology And Digital Transformation in Mining: The Debswana Experience
Bakani MOTLHABANI, Head of Technology Technical Services at Debswana Diamond Company, presented the future smart connected mine big picture plan. Furthermore, the speaker spoke on autonomous drilling systems to increase efficiency in operations and reduce human exposure to hazardous conditions. The session also covered elements like data analytics and governance to transform business operations and the use of AI and ML for predictive maintenance.
Advancing Mining Operations With LTE Private Campus Networks
Argyris PATOUSIAS, an Information Technology Manager at Hellas Gold, spoke about how the rollout of LTE private campus networks can permit direct communication between underground mines and the surface. Moreover, the speaker described how it can generate real-time data from the mine on the characteristics of ore and machinery health. The speaker also covered the enablement of efficient fleet management through these networks.
AI-Based Predictive Maintenance for Piston Diaphragm Pumps in Mining Application
Alexander JANZON, Leader Product Management at ABEL Pump Technology demonstrated AI-powered predictive maintenance solutions for piston diaphragm pumps that can be utilized to improve mining operations. Moreover, the speaker explained how those AI-based solutions can also minimize unplanned shutdowns, thus increasing the effectiveness and output of digital mining activities.
Round Table Discussions
The 6th Mining 4.0 Summit included six roundtable discussions, directed by industry experts:
Round Table 1 – Integrating Digital Technologies for Process Innovation and Operational Excellence. This was led by Avi BOVLIL, Director of Process Engineering, ARP, OE, and R&D at ICL IBP.
Round Table 2 – Breakthrough Smart Systems: New opportunities for smart equipment systems to enable massive IRR in minerals exploration, mining, and processing. It was chaired by Daniel FINFER, Innovation Manager – Sensing at Anglo American.
Round Table 3 – Unlocking Business Strategy with Remote Monitoring: The Strategic Value of Advanced Instrumentation in Mining. This was facilitated by Sergei MISHIN, Sales Director OEM Europe, Measurement Solutions at Emerson.
Round Table 4 – Digitizing Physical Assets to Drive Sustainability in Water Management. It was led by Robin Marc DUFOUR, Mining VP at DHI.
Round Table 5 – Turning Data Insights into Real-World Operational Decisions. It was led by Ronald SMITH, Head of Data at First Quantum Minerals.
Round Table 6 – Vehicle Automation in Mining. This was led by Dr. Eric POHLMANN, CEO of Nerospec.
AI Integration in Industrial Processes: The ArcelorMittal Approach
Filipe GUIMARÃES, Head of Mining R&D, at ArcelorMittal, described the company’s strategic implementation of AI to increase productivity and quality of products. Moreover, the session went deep into AI in mining and steel production. This is along with the role of AI in predicting and preventing safety hazards in an industrial environment.
MIKE Mine – An Innovative Platform for Integrated Mine Water Data and Model Management
Alexia CARPENTIER, Senior Hydrogeologist Modeller, at DHI, presented the MIKE Mine platform, an integrated solution for permitting and managing mine water data and modeling. Moreover, the speaker explained its elements for effectiveness. These are user-friendliness, democratized model ownership, real-time data integration, automatic alerts, and adaptive functions.
Change Management for Mining 4.0
Annika ALSDORF, Head of Regional Project Group Europe Corporate at RHI Magnesita AT discussed how strategic employee engagement and training can:
– Enable people to navigate the transition in an organization,
– Help in the successful materialization of expected benefits of the project,
– And foster an agile company culture to meet the needs of customers, employees, and partners
Enhancing Safety in Heavy Mobile Equipment: Innovations in Anti-Collision, Automatic Braking, and 3D Safety Berm Modeling
Christophe DELNEUVILLE, Senior Mining Engineer at Lhoist, described advances in anti-collision, automatic braking, and 3D safety berm modeling technologies. These have the potential to improve the safety of heavy mobile devices in mining work. Moreover, the speaker presented these technological feats to avoid the dangers of working with big machines in mining areas. As a result, it increases overall safety and production.
Integrated Asset Strategy And Asset Health for the Mining Industry
Mikhail DAGAEV, Digital Sales Leader Mining, at Baker Hughes, presented some challenges and trends that the mining industry faces. Furthermore, the speaker covered asset strategy and asset health integration to drive performance and productivity. Moreover, the session also covered the company’s Cordant Digital platform along with a case study on mobile equipment.
Why Mining Automation Causes Thrombosis. RoSi And Kite Shield as a Solution/Prevention
Wojciech JAWORSKI, Director of Product at Robotec.ai, and Christian GRANTE, Senior Specialist at SAAB Combitech, presented the challenges of robotization in underground mines. Moreover, the speakers discussed the growing significance of software in mining. Additionally, the session covered the RoSi Open Simulation Platform as a digital twin of digital mining activities and the Kite Shield safety system as a solution to automated and mixed traffic.
Leveraging Data, AI, And ML for Improved Predictive Analytics in Mining
Ronald SMITH, Head of Data at First Quantum Minerals UK, explored whether the reliability of predictions is limited in mining or not. Furthermore, the speaker explored why data initiatives often fail to deliver any value due to a broken feedback loop. Moreover, the speaker gave guidance on how data/ML/AI can be put to use to overcome any issues and have effective implementation.
Mining Vehicle Automation: From Collision Avoidance to Full Autonomy
Dr. Eric POHLMANN, chief executive officer of Nerospec, presented views on mining vehicle automation development and its difficulties. Moreover, the speaker explained the different levels of automation, the technological needs, and the possible advantages. This is within the scope of fully self-sufficient mining vehicles, in terms of increased safety, higher efficiency, and lower expenses.
AI in Mining: Truths And Myths
Carlos Martinez TORRES, Mining Director, Recursos de Galicia ES showed the reality of what is artificial intelligence and whether the corporation stands interested in AI implementation. Moreover, the speaker talked about how AI can be put to use in mining along with some real cases for deep insights.
Integration of Operations & IROC: Case Study by Eramet
Jean-Loup LOYER, Director of Transformation Operations Integration at Eramet, presented on integrating operations within mining and metals. This is using Eramet’s journey as an example. Furthermore, the speaker explained how Integration of Operations (IO) leverages seven years of digital initiatives, including mobile, IoT, IT systems, and AI, to optimize processes. Additionally, the session highlighted a “people, process, technology” framework as essential for successful implementation. It showed best practices applied across Eramet subsidiaries in Gabon, New Caledonia, and Norway. So, it illustrated how this approach enhances operational efficiency and coordination.
Operators to Operation – A Layered Approach to Safety
Reece HANNING, Senior Business Development Manager, EMEA, Hexagon Mining, presented a systematic view on safety, centered around equipping operational personnel and integrating technology to improve the safety of mining works. Moreover, the speaker highlighted how this approach, which combines operator empowerment, advanced analytics, and connected equipment, can help mining companies create a safer and more efficient work environment for their personnel.
6th Mining 4.0 Summit: Event Partners
The 6th Mining 4.0 Summit was supported by a range of event partners who are pioneers in their fields. In this section, we will take a look at how they were extremely instrumental in the success of the event:
DHI – Silver Sponsor
DHI, the global market leader in water environments, brought its groundbreaking MIKE Mine digital twin solution for water management to the summit. So, this empowered miners to optimize operations, ensure environmental compliance, and proactively manage risks. As a result, it directly supported the event’s focus on future-proofed mining practices and technologies.
Emerson – Silver Sponsor
Emerson, a leading provider of automation and software solutions, exemplified the value of its state-of-the-art solutions in promoting productivity, protecting personnel, and achieving sustainability targets for companies. The theme of the summit, technology-driven revolution in mining, was perfectly matched to Emerson’s profound mining industry expertise and advanced products.
Nerospec SK – Bronze Sponsor
Nerospec SK, a joint venture between Nerospec Group and Schmidt Kranz, shared its deep experience in mining digitalization. Moreover, with a focus on enhancing safety, efficiency, and productivity, Nerospec SK provided valuable insights into innovative machine control and communication systems. These are shaping the future of mining operations.
Hexagon – Bronze Sponsor
Hexagon, an industry innovator in digital reality solutions, showcased its holistic strategy toward operational excellence for mining. Furthermore, with its data-driven planning, fleet management, and monitoring and safety systems, Hexagon demonstrated the capability of data-driven decision-making for the industry. This was one of the focus areas of the 6th Mining 4.0 Summit.
Shell Lubricants – Presenting Partner
Shell Lubricants, being the global leader in finished lubricants, offered a substantial amount of experience on how to improve the efficiency and lifespan of mining equipment. Furthermore, illuminating the role of proper lubrication in the context of Mining 4.0, Shell Lubricants‘ knowledge and solutions provided a timely contribution to discussions on the optimization of operational efficiency and environmental sustainability held at the summit.
Baker Hughes – Presenting Partner
Baker Hughes, an energy technology company with a complete range of equipment and services, shared approaches for the management of integrated asset and climate technology solutions. Moreover, by addressing the industry’s increasingly dominant emphasis on sustainability and decarbonization, Baker Hughes’ presence reflected the summit’s aspiration to make the industry take steps towards a more environmentally conscious future.
ABEL Pump Technology – Presenting Partner
Abel Pump Technology, an innovative company in the design and manufacture of robust pumping systems for abrasive, toxic, and viscous applications, showed its expertise in efficient pumping technology for critical mining activities. This includes mine dewatering, backfilling, and tailings transfer. So, its presence offered important lessons about the use of specialized equipment in promoting the technological progress and operational improvement aims of the mining sector.
Picterra – Bronze Sponsor
A Swiss-based company, Picterra, illustrated a scalable, reliable, and intuitive-to-use GeoAI platform. It allows enterprises to rapidly create tailored solutions for geopositioning intelligence in various mining applications. Moreover, demonstrating its innovative technologies, Picterra presented the opportunities offered by advanced analytics and artificial intelligence in changing mining operations and mining decision-making.
Robotec.ai – Bronze Sponsor
Robotec.ai, a software development company, presented its ROS2-enabled, scalable simulation solutions for robotics applications in sectors including mining. Moreover, its participation in the 6th Mining 4.0 Summit supported the industry’s advancement towards autonomous operations, a key area of focus for the event.
AuroraGeo Consulting – Bronze Sponsor
AuroraGeo, a geohazard mitigation consultancy, shared its expertise in providing a unified workflow for mining companies to simultaneously protect humans and infrastructure, ensure sustainable operations, and optimize budget and planning. By addressing the critical challenge of geohazard management, AuroraGeo’s insights were valuable for mining companies seeking to balance operational continuity, environmental protection, and cost-effective planning.
Donaldson Company Inc. – Exhibition Partner
Donaldson Company is one of the market leaders in the field of filtration technology. It showcased its innovative work in addressing complex pollution and filtration problems in the mining environment. Through enabling miners to improve operational efficiency and environmental performance, Donaldson Company’s involvement corresponded to the summit’s focus on sustainable mining and practices and technologies.
RAMJACK Technology Solutions – Cocktail Networking Sponsor
RAMJACK Technology Solutions, leveraging its expertise as a mining technology provider, created an opportunity for attendees to network and discuss use cases for their best-of-breed technologies and productivity and safety optimization services that enhance mining operations. Through valuable connections and exchanges, RAMJACK Technology Solutions facilitated the summit’s objective of building collaborations and sharing information in the field.
To Sum Up
The mining industry is ever-evolving and innovation-evoking events such as this 6th Mining 4.0 Summit are significant steps in propelling this change and encouraging collaboration in the direction of a more sustainable future. So, if you want to be up-to-date with this technological revolution and learn from some of the best in the business, register for future sustainability events by Future Bridge!
