Mining is a high-stakes industry. Few other industries are under so much pressure to consistently deliver products while contending with the demands of a world racing towards decarbonisation. Reducing emissions and meeting ESG targets while building resilient operations is a real challenge, and mines are now looking for solutions that can help cool this melting pot of demands while establishing a sustainable future.
Today there are technologies that combine environmental responsibility with greater, future-proofed operational intelligence. One such technology is SF6-free switchgear which replaces hazardous sulphur hexafluoride (SF6) with pure air, a greener and more sustainable alternative.
Already overcoming the negative impact of a greenhouse gas (GHG) with a global warming potential (GWP) 25 200 times higher than carbon dioxide, SF6-free switchgear also embeds digital intelligence for faster decision making.
This is a win-win in the truest sense, and allows mines to overcome a range of challenges in one step. It enables the replacement of SF6-based equipment with pure-air technology. Under South Africa’s Carbon Tax Framework, and given the potency of SF6, mines risk incurring heavy penalties if even minor leaks occur. With embedded digital intelligence, SF6-free switchgear can also meet the broader purpose, safety objectives and long-term sustainability roadmaps of mining operations.
Adding intelligence to electrical infrastructure
Modern mining operations rely on electrical networks that must perform continuously, often in demanding environments. Unexpected failures can result in significant downtime, production losses and safety risks.
When advanced monitoring, analytics and connected infrastructure are integrated with SF6-free switchgear, mining operators gain real-time visibility into the health and performance of their critical electrical assets. This intelligence, embedded into electrical systems, provides mines with insight across their operations, allowing them to identify risks earlier and optimise performance. It also creates a connected ecosystem where data becomes an invaluable tool for improving reliability and productivity.
Digital solutions such as Schneider Electric’s EcoStruxure Asset Advisor enable condition monitoring and predictive insights, helping operators identify potential risks before they become failures.
From connected assets to connected outcomes
The evolution of mining technology is increasingly about integration, connecting equipment, data and people to create a more complete view of operations. By connecting electrical infrastructure from field level through to digital platforms, like SF6-free switchgear with native digital intelligence, mining companies can unlock greater value across the entire operational chain. This approach enables mines to optimise energy consumption, improve equipment availability and support safer working environments while reducing their environmental impact.
Schneider Electric’s World Economic Forum award-winning SF6-free AirSeT range features embedded digital intelligence offering condition monitoring:
Embedded sensors: Track thermal, humidity and environmental conditions, reducing downtime and fire risks.
Arc flash protection: Optical sensors provide ultra-fast detection, enhancing worker safety.
Predictive analytics: 24/7 monitoring and the EcoCare 24/7 service plan enable condition-based maintenance, cutting maintenance needs by up to 40%.
Mines are now asking how technology can help them achieve their ESG, energy efficiency and operational objectives, and their broader business impact. SF6-free switchgear with digital intelligence answers this question by both eliminating a potent GHG and providing digital intelligence that supports a broader sustainability vision for mining.
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