Debswana and Huawei Unveil the World’s First 5G Mine

Mining and ExplorationTechnology

Debswana and Chinese tech giant Huawei at the Mobile World Congress Trade Show this week announced plans for the unveiling of "the world's first 5G-oriented smart diamond mine project".
The 5G network allows cutting-edge technologies like autonomous driving and enables more intelligent digital transformation of the mining industry in the years to come.

Huawei’s new 5G private network solution will provide stable connectivity for the Jwaneng mine, connecting more than 260 pieces of equipment, including drilling rigs, excavators, heavy trucks, and pickup trucks. This enables interconnection between the mine’s production, safety, and security systems. By connecting over 260 pieces of equipment at the Jwaneng mine, in Botswana, it says it has increased both efficiency and safety.

Transferring data in real time makes equipment like mining vehicles more efficient, increasing yield and reducing long-term operating costs.
It also makes the system more sensitive and accurate to provide more reliable protection for staff and vehicles.

Debswana also announced that they have plans to roll out the new 5G network solution at its Damtshaa, Orapa, and Letlhakane mines in the near future.

Photo Credit: Debswana