Can you highlight some of Rockwell Automation’s recent solutions for the mining sector?

We recently brought to market our Mining Operations Management (MOM) platform that compiles data from discrete sources into a single, holistic view from a single mine's operations to the full corporation’s asset view across multiple sites. Rockwell Automation is also interested in moving analytics down to the process level, so operations people can make local decisions before it is brought to a larger entity. We are developing smart AI modules that do not require a data analytics engineer to conduct configuration and analysis on the frontline.

As companies increasingly rely on data to optimize their performances, how can they assure this data is accurate and protected?

As an example, companies are looking at their haulage operations. Advanced systems are required to understand the data around each piece of equipment's operations, as variables such as weather changes and the time of day ‘contextualize’ the data. The energy efficiency of a truck on a wet day will not be the same as a dry day given slippage on tires, for example. This contextualization is fundamental, as is ensuring the accuracy of how the data is harvested. We have to validate the sensors that generate this information so that it is relevant.

Now, with all the data comes the need to properly scrutinize and implement network security. Firewalls around the whole site are not enough; you must break it down inside as well. People will bring a thumb drive into a network even if they are explicitly told not to, so there must be security between networks that ensures any leakage only impacts a small portion of process operations. Rockwell Automation can provide both cybersecurity and network analysis.

How does public perception lag behind the current image of the mining industry?

People still have a perception of mining based on what it was twenty years ago. For most individuals, however, mining is not even on their radar. The truth is that mining is crucial for nearly everything we do. Furthermore, the industry is far cleaner today than it was even ten years ago. ESG is no longer about the actions of individual companies. Increasingly, organizations, suppliers, OEMs, and end users are coming together under associations or councils to take greater risks in innovative processes or technologies. As an example, the Canadian Mining Innovation Council has significant members such as Agnico Eagle in its partnership, and its members are developing energy reduction processes that target 50% reductions on the comminution circuit. Comminution accounts for 6% to 8% of the world's energy usage, so cutting that down over the next ten years will be a very significant step. More broadly, people are taking a more holistic approach to ESG rather than focusing on each component as an isolated checklist item.

Will robotics and AI eventually replace the human element of mining?

We are investigating several use cases for robotics; the metals industry, one stream down from mining, had the largest robotics growth market in 2021. It is just a matter of time before that moves upstream to the mining sector. The principles of machine learning, AI, and simulations can be applied with great effect in mining. The results we are achieving with ARENA solution are changing the miner’s supply chain effectiveness and operational goals. You can use machine learning to model a process in its ideal operation, then compare your results with either a new process to see if it is living up to its expectations or with an older one to detect mechanical issues or signs of wear. People hear AI and fear we are removing human jobs. The truth is the skills dynamics of the market are far worse for mining than most other industries. Our skilled labor shortage is huge, and people would rather work in cities than remote locations. The important question to ask is whether you are removing jobs that can be filled in the mining sector or whether you are simply replacing jobs that nobody is willing to travel to do. I have worked in the business for long enough that I am confident it is the latter.