Nokia 5G Standalone Private Wireless Network Selected By Sandvik To Advance Digital Transformation In Mining.
By Mark S. Kuhar
Nokia announced that Sandvik Mining and Rock Technology will deploy a Nokia 5G SA industrial-grade private wireless network at its test mine in Tampere, Finland.
Based on Nokia Digital Automation Cloud (DAC), the 5G standalone (SA) network will be used to enhance communications and connectivity at the facility, a real-life mining environment where Sandvik Mining and Rock Technology tests, develops and prototypes mkining solutions for its customers worldwide.
The network will enable fast, reliable and secure voice and video communications in a mining setting, which presents highly challenging deployment conditions. Its 5G capability will also be used for automated mining processes, enabling remote machine operations over 4K video links between deep underground and the surface control center.
Combined with IP/MPLS, private wireless builds the foundation for the converged mining automation network: to realize the promise of automation, to create safer, more efficient and productive mines, and to make the evolution to 5G almost seamless.
- One network for voice, video, data and IoT applications with predictable data rates, industry-grade reliability and security by design.
- Automated and remote operations: real-time operations monitoring, with on-demand adaptive bit rate video and low-latency control let you respond quickly to critical events.
- 360-degree situational awareness lets you improve safety and sustainability, with full visibility of people, assets and infrastructure; data from IoT sensors, cameras and drones generates actionable insight and influences better decisions: wearable PPE enables tracking of personnel location, alertness and health parameters.
- Advanced data and video analytics enables asset lifecycle management and preventive maintenance of vehicles and machinery, while empowering autonomous drilling and hauling systems for 24/7 operations.
Patrick Murphy, president, Rock Drills and Technologies, Sandvik Mining and Rock Technology said, “By deploying a Nokia 5G SA private wireless network with Nokia Digital Automation Cloud, we can trial and showcase an entirely new range of game-changing products and capabilities here in our Tampere test mine.
“As we work with our customers to help them leverage technology to digitalize their operations, the introduction of 5G opens the door to new opportunities in robotics, remote and autonomous operations, full-fleet automation, analytics and enhanced safety. As such, it comprises a breakthrough in the digital transformation of mining,” he said.
Stephan Litjens, general manager, Nokia Digital Automation Cloud said, “It’s an honor to work with a world-class company such as Sandvik on leading-edge digital automation solutions for the mining industry. With 5G SA, its high speed, low latency performance and edge computing, the next steps on this journey can be taken. Through our plug-and-play Nokia DAC platform we’re supporting Sandvik to realize not only its own digital transformation goals, but also those of the wider industry as it continues to deliver value to mining customers worldwide.”