Autonomous operations and the opportunities they present are incredibly compelling, but they are not achievable overnight, says industrial automation specialist Honeywell Process Solutions sales director for Africa Megz Naidoo.

Autonomous operations are systems that can perform complex tasks without human intervention, using AI, machine learning (ML), robotics and other technologies, and are critical for the future. 

“Autonomous mining solutions can significantly address challenges in African mining operations by improving efficiency, safety and cost-effectiveness, particularly in remote and high-risk areas. These technologies reduce dependence on human-operated systems, enhancing operational uptime and mitigating safety risks,” highlights Naidoo.

Moreover, by integrating these solutions with local skills development programmes, companies can ensure a lasting legacy of technological empowerment and community upliftment.

Naidoo explains that while autonomous mining reduces direct labour requirements, it creates opportunities for reskilling the workforce to operate, maintain and manage advanced technologies. 

“This transition can lead to higher-value job creation, fostering economic growth and development. By investing in training programmes and local partnerships, mining companies can balance technological advancements with social responsibility, mitigating the potential displacement of workers.”

However, it is crucial to understand the steps needed for the effective implementation of autonomous mining solutions. Additionally, having a partner, such as Honeywell, which understands the unique opportunities and challenges in the mining industry is essential. 

The successful implementation of autonomous solutions into an organisation requires thoughtful planning and tactical execution.

The journey to autonomous operations is a progressive one, where companies can move from manual or semi-manual operations to 

fully autonomous operations in stages. While virtually any industrial company can start on the path to autonomous operations, it is also important to consider that the transition to fully autonomous operations is still a rarity in today’s operating environment. 

Naidoo suggests that an African mining operation go about introducing AI and autonomous solutions by undertaking stakeholder engagement to partner with stakeholders and align goals, undertaking pilot projects, as well as leveraging hybrid solutions by integrating AI and ML into well-established tools such as Advanced Process Control (APC), Asset Performance Management (APM) and digital twins.

“This approach ensures that operations benefit from improved optimisation, predictive maintenance, and process simulations without overhauling existing systems entirely,” adds Naidoo. 

In addition, he recommends workforce development and leveraging cloud-based platforms and Industrial Internet of Things solutions to enable data-driven decision-making and adaptability. This phased approach ensures local buy-in, minimises risks and maximises benefits.

Autonomous operations can deliver significant benefits and competitive advantages to companies over the long term, aligning with broader business goals such as increasing productivity. This is in addition to reducing downtime, improving quality and optimising throughput by continuously learning and adapting to changing conditions and demands.

Autonomous operations can also help to lower operational expenses, maintenance costs and energy consumption by facilitating actions that reduce waste, inefficiencies and errors. Improved environmental performance is another benefit of autonomous operations, as they can assist in reducing greenhouse-gas emissions, water consumption and waste generation by optimising resource use.

In addition, autonomous operations can help to prevent accidents, injuries and fatalities by detecting and avoiding hazards, promoting compliance and enforcing best practices.

Improved profitability is another benefit of adopting autonomous operations, which can help to reduce time and labour costs while increasing the productivity and efficiency of assets, people and processes.

Unfortunately, amid the fast-growing hype that surrounds AI, it can be easy to get swept up in the latest trending autonomous solutions. To be successful over the long-term, companies must focus on building the proper foundation and infrastructure before scaling up. 

The organisations that struggle the most on the path toward autonomy are those that try to skip to the autonomous future without first taking the time to lay the groundwork necessary to enable it.

Honeywell has executed several successful projects in African mining by integrating traditional solutions with advanced technologies, such as APC, simulation solutions and APM.

These solutions demonstrate Honeywell’s ability to infuse AI and digital technologies into traditional mining operations, delivering enhanced productivity and sustainability tailored to the African mining sector’s needs, concludes Naidoo.

Honeywell

Tel: +27 11 695 8000 

Email: hsa@honeywell.com

Tony White | Regional Sales Leader – South Africa 

Tel: +27 71 287 2224

Mostafa El Hossamy | Regional Sales Leader - West & East Africa

Tel: +254 739 279172