The future of applied telemetry in mining

introduction

Mining is a sector that has undergone significant transformation in recent decades, driven by the adoption of advanced technologies. One of the key tools in this evolution is telemetry, which allows the collection and analysis of data in real time to improve the efficiency, safety and sustainability of mining operations. In this article, we'll explore how telemetry is revolutionizing the future of mining and what challenges and opportunities it poses.

Definition of telemetry

Telemetry refers to the process of collecting and transmitting data remotely using sensors and communication systems. In the mining context, telemetry is used to monitor critical parameters such as equipment location and performance, water levels, temperature, and environmental conditions (Tompkins, cited in (Coates Hire, 2021), (Industrial Computer Hardware, 2025). This allows operators to make informed decisions to optimize operations and reduce risks.

The digital transformation of the mining sector

Digital transformation in mining involves the integration of Industry 4.0 technologies, such as the Internet of Things (IoT), artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning (ML), to improve efficiency and reduce costs (Metallurgical Systems, 2025). Telemetry is essential in this process, since it provides the necessary data to power these advanced systems and allow for data-based decision-making (Loudon, cited in (Industrial Computer Hardware, 2025), (Lainnya, 2023)).

Technologies adopted by mining and their impact

Below, the table shows the technologies adopted by the mining industry (Lainnya, 2023), as well as their impact on it.

Internet of Things (IoT)

Description

• In the mining industry, the use of IoT devices and sensors has become increasingly common.
• This technology plays a crucial role in gathering valuable data from a wide variety of mining equipment and processes.
• The devices provide real-time updates on equipment status, prevailing environmental conditions, and worker safety.

Impact

• It improves operational efficiency through real-time monitoring of equipment and processes, allowing for more efficient management of resources (Zealous System, 2024), (Axceta, 2024).
• Optimizes safety by detecting hazardous conditions and alerting workers (Bare Syndicate Ltd., 2024).
• It reduces costs by preventing equipment failures through predictive maintenance (Ramesh, 2024).

Autonomous Vehicles and Equipment

Description

• Autonomous transport trucks, drilling rigs and loaders are becoming more common in mining operations.
• These vehicles are remotely controlled or use advanced AI systems to operate without human intervention, increasing safety and efficiency.

Impact

• They increase productivity by operating continuously without human intervention, reducing labor costs and improving safety (GlobalData, 2024), (Mine, 2024).
• They allow the optimization of routes and the reduction of security incidents (Nolan, 2024).

Advanced Data Analysis

Description

• Mining companies use data analysis tools and algorithms to analyze large data sets generated by mining operations.
• This helps to optimize processes, predict equipment maintenance needs and improve overall productivity.

Impact

• It improves decision-making by providing accurate details about operations and resources (Ramesh, 2024).
• It optimizes processes by identifying areas for improvement and reducing operating costs (Matellio, 2023).

Machine Learning and AI

Description

• Machine learning and AI algorithms are used for predictive maintenance, mineral grade optimization and safety monitoring.
• They can identify patterns and anomalies in data to make informed decisions.

Impact

• It assists in predicting equipment failures and optimizes mining processes, improving efficiency and reducing costs (Ramesh, 2024), (Mine, 2024).
• It improves exploration by analyzing large sets of geological data (Ramesh, 2024).

Remote Monitoring and Control

Description

• Miners can remotely monitor and control equipment and processes, reducing the need for on-site personnel.
• This is especially valuable in remote or dangerous locations.

Impact

• It reduces risk by allowing operations to be controlled from a safe distance, improving worker safety (TEAL, 2024), (Bell Canada, 2025).
• Optimizes resource usage by monitoring and adjusting parameters in real time (Zealous System, 2024).

Digital Twin Technology

Description

• Digital twins create virtual replicas of physical mining assets and processes.
• They are used for simulation, monitoring and optimization, helping mining companies make informed decisions and reduce downtime.

Impact

• Simulate operations to optimize processes and reduce trial and error costs (Mine, 2024).
• It improves planning by replicating real scenarios in virtual environments (Mine, 2024).

Drones and Unmanned Aerial Vehicles

Description

• Unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) and drones are used for surveying, mapping and monitoring mining sites.
• They can quickly collect data on the ground, stockpiles and infrastructure.

Impact

• They improve safety by inspecting inaccessible areas without risk to workers (Mine, 2024).
• They optimize exploration by mapping terrain and detecting minerals more efficiently (Mine, 2024).

3D printing

Description

3D printing technology is used to create custom parts and prototypes, reducing delivery times and equipment maintenance costs.

Impact

• It reduces delivery times by manufacturing spare parts quickly, minimizing equipment downtime (Mine, 2024).
• It improves sustainability by reducing waste and transportation costs (Mine, 2024).

Blockchain

Description

Blockchain technology can be used to improve the transparency and traceability of the supply chain in the mining industry. It helps to track the origin and movement of minerals, ensuring a responsible source.

Impact

• It guarantees the traceability of minerals and materials, improving transparency in the supply chain (Mine, 2024).
• It improves security by recording transactions in a secure and transparent manner (Mine, 2024).

Virtual Reality (VR) and Augmented Reality (AR)

Description

VR and AR are used for training, simulation and maintenance tasks. They allow workers to visualize complex equipment and processes, improving training and problem solving.

Impact

• It improves training by simulating real environments to train workers safely (Mine, 2024).
• It optimizes maintenance by providing interactive instructions for complex repairs (Mine, 2024).

Environmental Monitoring and Management

Description

• Digital technologies are used to monitor environmental impact and regulatory compliance.
• This includes monitoring air and water quality, as well as monitoring emissions.

Impact

• It reduces environmental impact by monitoring and controlling emissions and waste (Bare Syndicate Ltd., 2024), (Bell Canada, 2025).
• It improves sustainability by optimizing the use of natural resources (Bell Canada, 2025).

Cybersecurity

Description

With increasing digitalization, cybersecurity is crucial for protecting sensitive data and preventing cyberattacks in mining operations.

Impact

• It protects the infrastructure against cyberattacks, ensuring operational continuity (Mine, 2024).
• Ensures the privacy of sensitive company data (Mine, 2024)

Geographic Information Systems (GIS)

Description

GIS technology is used for spatial analysis, geological mapping and optimization of the design of mining sites.

Impact

• It improves exploration by analyzing geospatial data to identify promising areas (Mine, 2024).
• It optimizes planning by visualizing and analyzing geographical data in real time (Mine, 2024).

Robotics

Description

Robotic systems are used for tasks such as rock breaking, material handling, and exploration in hostile or hazardous environments.

Impact

• It increases efficiency by automating dangerous or repetitive tasks (Zealous System, 2024), (Mine, 2024).
• It improves safety by reducing the exposure of workers to risks (Mine, 2024).

Energy Management

Description

Smart grids and energy management systems help mining companies optimize energy consumption and reduce operating costs.

Impact

• Optimizes consumption by monitoring and adjusting energy use in real time (Bell Canada, 2025).
• It reduces costs by minimizing energy waste (Bell Canada, 2025).

Automation Strategies

Automation is a key strategy in modern mining. The integration of telemetry systems with autonomous technologies, such as autonomous vehicles and equipment, allows greater efficiency and safety in operations (MIPAC, 2023). In addition, automation facilitates remote monitoring and control of critical processes, reducing the need for human intervention in hazardous areas (RAMJACK, 2025).

Challenges and Future

Despite the benefits, adopting telemetry in mining faces challenges. Interoperability between systems from different manufacturers is a significant obstacle (Tompkins, cited in (Coates Hire, 2021)). In addition, data security and the infrastructure needed to support advanced telemetry systems are important concerns. However, the future promises significant advances, with the integration of technologies such as AI and ML to analyze data and predict critical events (Metallurgical Systems, 2025).

Technological advances in mining in Latin America

In mining in Mexico, Chile, Peru and Brazil, significant advances have been made in the use of innovative technologies that seek to increase efficiency, reduce costs and minimize environmental impact. Below are the most relevant technologies adopted by each country:

• Mexico
  
  • Automation and data analysis: Mexico prioritizes process automation and the use of data analysis tools to optimize mining extraction, as part of the National Plan 2025 (Mexico Minero, 2025).
  • Sustainable mining: The use of clean technologies and the restoration of affected ecosystems are promoted, with fiscal incentives for projects that reduce carbon emissions (Mexico Minero, 2025), (Mexico Minero, 2025).
  • Strategic projects: In 2025, initiatives for the extraction of minerals such as lithium, gold and silver stand out, integrating sustainable models and advanced technologies (Mexico Minero, 2025).
• Chile
  
  • Autonomous mining: Chile leads with the use of autonomous vehicles and equipment, such as trucks and drills, that improve safety and productivity (De Vicente, 2025).
  • AI and Big Data: These technologies optimize mineral exploration, predict equipment failures and improve operational decision-making (De Vicente, 2025), (Desormeraux, 2025).
  • Blockchain: Used to ensure traceability in the mining supply chain (De Vicente, 2025).
  • Renewable energy: Green mining in Chile includes the use of solar and wind energy to reduce the carbon footprint (De Vicente, 2025).
• Peru
  
  • Automation and IoT: Peru implements AI, IoT and autonomous systems to optimize operations in exploration, extraction and transportation (Mining Technology, 2025), (Mining Innovation Hub of Peru, 2025).
  • Circular mining: Projects are being promoted that reuse discarded materials to reduce waste and improve sustainability (Mining Technology, 2025), (Mining Innovation Hub of Peru, 2025).
  • Critical Minerals: Peru explores strategic minerals such as rare earths to support the global energy transition (Peru Mining Innovation Hub, 2025).
• Brazil
  
  • AI and automation: Brazil uses AI to improve operational efficiency through autonomous vehicles, advanced sensors and predictive algorithms (Corporate, 2025), (Online Mining, 2025).
  • Circular Economy: Projects such as the “Multidisciplinary Study on Circularity” seek to convert mining waste into valuable predictive assets (Corporate, 2025), (Online Mining, 2025).
  • Green hydrogen: Brazil is making progress in the development of clean energies such as green hydrogen to support its energy transition (Corporate, 2025).
  • 5G connectivity: The implementation of 5G networks allows greater industrial automation and real-time monitoring in mining operations (Quezada, 2025).

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Conclusions

Telemetry is a crucial tool in the digital transformation of mining, allowing greater efficiency, safety and sustainability. As the industry continues to evolve, it's essential to address current challenges to make the most of the opportunities offered by telemetry. With the integration of advanced technologies, the future of mining looks promising, with a focus on automation, AI and data-driven decision-making.

The implementation of telemetry and automation in mining has a significant impact on the business. It reduces operating costs by improving equipment utilization and preventing premature failures (Coates Hire, 2021). In addition, telemetry helps to comply with environmental and safety standards, avoiding fines and unscheduled shutdowns (Metallurgical Systems, 2025).

In the case of Mexico, it is aligned with other Latin American countries in terms of the adoption of advanced technologies to improve safety and efficiency in mining. However, each country has its own strengths and challenges in implementing these technologies.