Technological Challenges and Innovations in Mining

Technological Challenges and Innovations in Mining: An Interview with King Becerra, Director of Digital Product Strategy at Weir Minerals

In a recent interview with King Becerra, TLS 2024 Panellist and Director at Weir Minerals, we delved into the biggest technological issues facing the mining industry. Becerra identifies three key challenges: the abundance of data without actionable insights, underutilisation of digital twin technology, and the complexity of operationalising AI. Becerra also highlights the essential skills and mindset shifts needed for adapting to the evolving landscape of technology and digitalisation.

What are you most excited to explore at TLS 2024 in relation to your topic?

At TLS 2024, I'm eager to explore the latest advancements in digital and automation technologies for the mining and minerals sector. Learning from industry leaders about their experiences, including success stories and lessons learned, will be invaluable. Understanding the challenges faced during digital transformation and strategies to overcome them will help us avoid pitfalls.

What are the biggest technological issues facing the industry?

In this digital era, I see three main issues facing the mining industry: data abundance but not enough insights, underutilisation of digital twin technology, and the complexity of effectively operationalising AI.

Data Abundance but Not Enough Insights

Despite substantial technology investments, miners often find themselves data-rich but insight-poor. The industry generates vast data from various sources, yet extracting actionable insights remains challenging due to:

• Data Overload: The abundance of data overwhelms, hindering the identification of valuable information.
• Integration Issues: Data is often siloed across different systems and platforms, complicating the comprehensive analysis process.
•  Lack of Advanced Analytics: Many mining companies need more tools and expertise to transform raw data into meaningful insights.

Digital Twins Underutilised

Despite its proven value, digital twin technology still needs more adoption and utilisation in the industry. Several factors contribute to this situation:

• Awareness Gap: Many professionals must know digital twin technology's full capabilities and benefits.
• Cost Considerations: Implementing the necessary sensors and infrastructure involves substantial upfront investment.
• Data Integration Challenges: Managing and integrating vast amounts of data with existing systems can be complex.
• Perceived Complexity: The concept and implementation of digital twins may appear intricate, discouraging widespread adoption.

Operationalising AI Technologies in Mining

Recent AI advancements offer promising opportunities for the mining sector but also introduce increased complexity and operational demands. While modern AI platforms facilitate the creation of demos, the real challenge lies in operationalising these technologies and demonstrating their business value. To capitalise on AI, companies must:

• Develop a Robust AI Strategy: Ensure the strategy aligns with business objectives.
• Execute Technology Trials Effectively: Conduct thorough and well-planned trials to test AI applications.
• Bridge the Gap Between Demos and Real-World Implementation: Transition from conceptual demos to practical, value-generating solutions.

All of that, while implementing reliable cybersecurity measurements that enable customer to connect to the cloud.

How is Weir Minerals tackling this?

We are implementing targeted solutions that leverage our expertise and technology capabilities.

Data Abundance but Not Enough Insights

We are enhancing our applications by integrating predictive analytics capabilities, utilising our in-depth knowledge of critical mining machinery such as cyclones, pumps, and screens. These predictive models will analyse operational data to forecast maintenance needs, optimise performance, and prevent potential failures, thus transforming raw data into actionable insights.

Digital Twins Underutilised

We are creating specialised applications that incorporate our extensive knowledge of our products. These applications will provide tailored insights and operational efficiencies specific to our equipment. We are collaborating with vendors who specialise in digital twin technology. By combining their technical expertise with our subject matter knowledge, we can enhance the functionality and adoption of digital twins within the mining industry. 

Operationalising AI Technologies in Mining

We are constructing an end-to-end platform that spans from data gathering to automatic insights, recommendation systems, and real-time operational advice for process optimisation. This platform will ensure seamless data integration, advanced analytics, and real-time decision-making capabilities.
We continue to invest in partnerships, talent, and M&As, such as the recent acquisitions of Motion Metrics and SentianAI. 

What are the skills we need for adapting to the evolving landscape of technology and digitalisation or is it just a mindset shift?

Adapting to the evolving landscape of technology and digitalisation in the mining and minerals industry requires both specific skills and a mindset shift.

Miners need to build multidisciplinary teams that include:

• Experts Who Can Drive Digital Transformation Programs: Individuals capable of effectively leading and managing digital transformation initiatives.
• Experts in Cutting-Edge Technologies: Professionals skilled in adopting and implementing technologies such as AI, machine learning, deep learning, advanced analytics, and robotics to innovate and optimise mining operations.
• Traditional Automation and Process Control Specialists: Individuals with a strong background in conventional automation and process control to ensure seamless integration of new technologies with existing systems.
• Subject-Matter Experts in Mining and Minerals Processes: Specialists who understand the unique challenges and needs of the mining industry, ensuring that technological solutions are practical and effective.

At the heart of the mindset shift is a crucial change management process, vital for successfully adopting and implementing technology. This process involves strong leadership which provides clear vision and direction, transparent communication to build trust and reduce resistance, and ensuring employees feel involved and engaged through training and development.