Vertical: Mining
Application: IoT, improved communications, video
Ecosystem: China Telecom, Huawei
Private Network: 5G
China Telecom and Huawei have jointly launched a cutting-edge private 5G network, revolutionizing communication in the Sandaogou coal mine located in Yulin, China.
The mining industry has long suffered from inefficient communication systems both above and below ground, posing significant challenges, particularly when issues arise and miners need to communicate in real-time, as they were limited to fixed-location phones and unable to connect with colleagues above ground.
To address these limitations, Huawei and China Telecom have deployed a private LTE/ 5G network, enabling seamless audio and video calls through the convergence of 4G and 5G technologies. This solution complies with the requirements set by the Chinese Ministry of Industry and Information Technology.
With the implementation of this system, miners now have the ability to communicate with each other underground and with those aboveground, significantly enhancing efficiency and safety by enabling constant contact.
Moreover, the network’s capability to integrate with the mine’s dispatching system allows for streamlined operations, including equipment allocation, refueling, and equipment downtime monitoring. Real-time task scheduling can now be conducted from the surface, unlocking new possibilities for advanced mining applications.
Thanks to the enhanced 5G data access, a wide range of IoT devices demanding high bandwidth and low latency can be accommodated. This includes real-time cameras, sensors, coal shearers, smart mine lamps, smartphones, excavators, and inspection robots. This comprehensive connectivity empowers the mine with the latest technological advancements, paving the way for optimized operations and increased productivity.