Newmont Corporation (NYSE: NEM, TSX: NGT, ASX: NEM, PNGX: NEM) has announced plans to expand its use of next-generation 5G wireless networks to enhance safety and operational efficiency in underground mining.
This decision follows successful trial results at its Cadia mine in New South Wales, Australia, one of the largest underground gold and copper mines globally.
The trial, initiated in partnership with Ericsson and Telstra Purple in February last year, aimed to address the limitations of the existing wi-fi network at Cadia, which provided upload speeds of only 20-30 megabits per second (Mbps).
These wi-fi connections were often unreliable, leading to insufficient capacity for operating multiple machines simultaneously and causing frequent false triggers of automation safety stops due to network packet loss.
By implementing 5G, Newmont achieved significant improvements, with upload speeds reaching approximately 90Mbps in access drives and declines, and 150Mbps upload and 500Mbps download speeds in extraction drives.
The 5G connections proved to be persistent and highly reliable, overcoming the historical limitations of wi-fi and ensuring consistent performance for remote control and autonomous mining systems.
Suzy Retallack, Newmont’s Chief Safety and Sustainability Officer, emphasised the transformative potential of 5G technology, stating: “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 success of the 5G trials has prompted Newmont to plan the deployment of more autonomous fleets, including drill rigs, graders, and auto haul trucks, as part of future mining operations.
These advancements will leverage 5G’s capacity to streamline operations and enhance safety systems, such as radars and collision avoidance technologies.
The initiative also included trialling 5G New Radio (NR) technologies on the surface at Cadia, demonstrating significant improvements in throughput at extended distances using innovations like 64T64R Massive MIMO, beamforming, and beam-steering.
Following the trial’s success and support from the Australian Communications and Media Authority (ACMA), Newmont has applied for Area Wide Licences to extend its 5G technology use across its Australian operations.
The company plans to expand 5G networks across its global network of Tier 1 underground gold-copper mines, reinforcing its commitment to using technology to enhance worker safety and operational efficiency.
