Vertical: Mining
Application: AGVs, improved safety
Ecosystem: Ericsson, Telstra Purple
Private Network: 5G
Newmont Corporation, a leading gold mining company, is taking a significant step forward in modernizing its underground mining operations. Following successful trials at its Cadia Mine in New South Wales, Australia, the company is set to expand its use of next-generation 5G wireless networks across its global operations.
The $81.72 billion market cap company aims to leverage 5G technology to roll out more autonomous fleets, including drill rigs, graders, and auto haul trucks. This move is part of Newmont’s strategy to enhance operational capabilities and improve safety in its mining operations.
The trial, conducted in partnership with Ericsson and Telstra Purple, began in February 2023 at the Cadia Mine. The results were striking when compared to the previous Wi-Fi setup:
- Upload speeds increased from 20-30 Mbps to 90 Mbps along access drives and declines.
- In extraction drives, the system achieved 150 Mbps upload and 500 Mbps download speeds.
- Connections proved to be persistent and highly dependable, addressing the limitations experienced with Wi-Fi.
These improvements are crucial for the reliable operation of remote-controlled and autonomous mining systems.
Suzy Retallack, Chief Safety and Sustainability Officer at Newmont, highlighted the potential of 5G: “The trial results show the extraordinary potential of 5G to improve safety, increase the number of machines that can be operated on a single network and boost production efficiencies in underground mining.”
The company plans to deploy additional safety systems, including radars and collision avoidance technology, to further enhance overall mine safety. This initiative represents a new frontier in mining technology, using innovation to prioritize worker safety while boosting productivity.
Prior to the 5G trial, Cadia Mine faced significant challenges with its Wi-Fi network, including unreliable and slow wireless speeds. The switch to 5G effectively addressed these issues, providing the consistent performance essential for remote control and autonomous mining systems.
Based on the success of the Cadia Mine trial, Newmont is now planning to expand the use of 5G networks across its global network of tier-one underground gold-copper mines. The company has applied for area-wide licenses from the Australian Communications and Media Authority (ACMA) to extend its use of 5G technology across its Australian operations.
Manish Tiwari, Head of Private Cellular Networks at Ericsson, expressed pride in the partnership: “Ericsson is proud to be partnering with Newmont on demonstrating the potential of 5G to the global mining sector.”
