Mining Technology & Security Conference

THE mining industry worldwide is undergoing unprecedented changes, including high commodity prices and rising exploration costs. In South Africa, the GDP from the mining sector decreased to 220907.55 ZAR Million in the first quarter of 2019 from 227291.33 ZAR Million in the fourth quarter of 2018. The fluctuations are partly as a result of number of challenges among others, illegal mining activities, the theft of commodities in refinery or final product stages as well as the hi-jacking of products in-transit. In many instances the loss of commodities is higher than the implementation of new technologies that can be used to manage and to improve security.

Various mines have lost their assets due to cable theft, mineral theft and other crimes within the mining industry. There is need for adaptation of improved technology that enhance security within the mines. The use of data in the mining sector has become imperative in a fast-paced and competitive market, and innovative data management platforms are creating better ways to manage, store and make sense of mining data. Artificial Intelligence (AI) and machine learning applications are being used to analyses important data and pick up patterns, which allows for better planning and resource management.

This conference presents perspectives on mining technologies that are being developed to better understand how mining industries are evolving to improve operational effectiveness and security. South Africa’s mining industry is set to undergo significant transformation in the next decade. With the rise of artificial intelligence, technology is set to drive a lot of what people are currently seeing in the mining industry going forward. The mining industry has to adjust and embrace new technology and innovation, as well as new ways of working. The development of new technologies benefits every aspect of the mineral industry. This includes; exploration, mineral processing, beneficiation, health and safety, as well as environmental issues. Above all, adaptation of technology will boost security within the mines. Technology development therefore, needs to be focused on those areas that are critical to the entire value chain.

This is a must attend conference to those interested in the discussion surrounding mining technology, security and the use of artificial intelligence in mining operations. Topics to be discussed include, technologies in mining, future of intelligent mining, use of drones in mining security, technology funding, challenges being experienced in securing precious resources amongst other topics.