As all industrial sectors undergo digital transformation, March Consulting Associates Inc. (March) is always looking at quantitative methods to minimize risk and maximize Return on Investment (ROI) for any project that we undertake. From automating mining operations, intelligent 3D models used to model both greenfield and brownfield projects to simulating real world scenarios, there are a number of ways these solutions can transform the Potash industry. Automation is a broad topic within digital transformation with all existing mining operations looking at adding autonomy to their operations to improve safety, reduce operational costs and increase efficiencies.
As is the case with any new technology, there are several things to consider when looking at automating any operation.
1. Creative Competition – As automation demands grow, numerous small to mid-size manufacturers are starting to offer PLCs that are fully featured, low cost controllers that can compete directly with mainline PLCs. This may present a great opportunity for achieving automation while staying within budget constraints that a mining operation might be working under. March engineers have knowledge of these options and continue to investigate new applicable options for the Potash industry.
2. Cybersecurity – Every conversation related to digital transformation generally leads to network security. Unlike last generation control systems, PLCs and DCSs are now integrally connected over Ethernet not just to other control devices, but also to external environment so they can be remotely supported. Therefore, any network design needs careful consideration to mitigate the risk of cyberattacks. Further, applications such as cloud computing and data exchange with external systems impose a challenge and a potential cybersecurity threat to crucial mining operations. Our experts in the area of controls can provide designs for connecting through firewalls to external networks while still maintaining the security which is always top of mind for any mining operation.
3. Disruptive Technologies such as AI, Machine Learning and Augmented Reality – As a part of digital transformation, all mining operations are also evaluating technologies such as artificial intelligence and machine learning and its application to real world scenarios. Given the pandemic, augmented reality is another technology that may be very applicable for the future as travel is restricted. March has engineers with advanced degrees in this area who can help to evaluate practical applications that can truly bring value to mining operations.
In summary, the area of automation continues to grow and provides great opportunities for all mining operations. In addition to the considerations above, the key challenge will be the interaction of autonomous equipment with equipment that may need to be non-autonomous and manually-operated to ensure safe and efficient operations. Data extraction and communication becomes critical for a successful implementation.
March Consulting Associates Inc. is a multi-discipline engineering company with the digital simulation tools, software and expertise for any number of applications, from routine to challenges at the forefront of the industry. If you believe these tools could help improve the reality of your project, get in contact with us today.