Mining is no longer about just large hardware ecosystems – resources sector businesses focused on expanding digital operations will likely be more successful in the future thanks to the potential of the Internet of Things. 

Nearly 500 billion devices are expected to be connected to the internet by 2030, according to Cisco research. That makes linking mining equipment through controllers and integrators a significant opportunity to streamline process management and quality control.

A connected ecosystem of controlled equipment and devices could have major benefits for mining operations.

What do mining integrators and controllers offer?

Integrators and controllers automate processes that would otherwise need manual intervention. Coal cleaning takes place with a production system processing raw minerals through benefication. Each individual item needs to be integrated accurately to ensure each is sufficiently and evenly cleaned. In decades gone by this was managed by human workers. However, modern integrators and controllers allow operators to pre-set defined parameters controlling production equipment, ensuring the right amount of coal is introduced for beneficiation at the right time.

This more intuitive means of controlling production offers the following benefits:

• Reduces the labour cost of controlling a processing system.
• Streamlines the time taken to complete operational procedures.
• Lowers the risk of compromised end-product quality.

How do integrators and controllers link to the Internet of Things?

The Internet of Things is an ecosystem of interconnected devices sharing data with one another instantly over the internet. In mining, this can mean anything from your smartphone accessing speed sensor data readings to integrators controlling material flow on a belt scale.

In this industrial setting, the Internet of Things makes processing a more streamlined activity that operators can monitor from anywhere. Linking the integrator or controller to a personal device, key personnel can determine and alter parameters such as integration frequency whenever necessary. This also makes it easier to check data at any time.

Integration and control of production equipment designed for the Internet of Things needs to do more than connect remote workers to equipment. Leading system infrastructure should also be designed with easy-to-operate indicators and an interface able to connect any worker to the critical processes of the production system. This puts the responsibility of advanced production into the hands of a group of skilled workers rather than a single operator.

How can SRO Technology's equipment help?

There is a right integrator/controller device for every unique mining system application. Whether your process requires basic material integration or advanced proportional–integral–derivative (PID) control, SRO Technology can recommend the appropriate device to suit your business.

SRO Technology supplies a range or proprietary integrators and controllers from names such as Thermo Scientific Ramsey.

We stock a large range of Thermo Scientific Ramsey integrators and controllers but we can also design and develop a customised solution that suits your unique needs. If you aren't certain about what you require, our team will conduct a system audit of your key processes to determine the best fit for your business.

The Internet of Things will undoubtedly affect all businesses everywhere in the next decade, meaning those who consider smarter ways of working now will flourish in the future. To discuss your project needs with the SRO Technology team, simply contact us by clicking below.