The mining and tunnelling industry leaders are actively examining how India’s mining and tunnelling equipment industry is meeting the challenges of the current infrastructure landscape. We will take a deep dive into the creative solutions pursued by OEMs and manufacturers to optimise costs, enhance equipment availability, and strengthen self-reliance within the sector.

Driven by India’s growing infrastructure needs, the mining and tunnelling practices in the country have witnessed significant advancements. Embracing progressive technologies like automation and intelligent control systems, the industry has prioritised efficiency and safety. Original Equipment Manufacturers (OEMs) have played a crucial role in designing cutting-edge equipment. At the same time, collaborations with foreign companies have further strengthened self-reliance. In this context, the discussion focuses on the ongoing mining practices, with leaders from the mining and tunnelling industries actively assessing how the equipment sector is adapting to the challenges presented by the current infrastructure landscape in India.

Adapting advanced technologies

India’s mining and tunnelling equipment industry is proactively embracing the current infrastructure situation, driving sector growth through the adoption of advanced technologies. Original Equipment Manufacturers (OEMs) are focused on developing cutting-edge equipment with features like automation and intelligent control systems to enhance efficiency and safety. Mr. Dheeraj Panda from Sany underscores how crucial this adaptation is to meeting India’s infrastructure needs and supporting robust projects in mining and tunnelling.

The industry is exploring local manufacturing possibilities to optimise costs and improve equipment availability. Collaborative efforts with foreign companies have also bolstered self-reliance in the tunnelling sector. The emphasis on sustainability and innovation has resulted in eco-friendly machinery and multi-purpose machines capable of handling diverse applications and challenging terrains. With strong aftermarket support and a focus on customer satisfaction, the mining and tunnelling equipment industry plays a vital role in shaping India’s progress and prosperity as the nation invests in infrastructure development.

Mr. B. K. R. Prasad from Tata Hitachi speaks about the technological advances being explored by mining equipment manufacturers. He states, “The manufacturers in the mining equipment space have started introducing new products and technologies and exploring the possibilities of local manufacturing. This would help the industry with cost optimisation and better equipment availability. Introducing new technologies is also imperative for the mining equipment industry to improve equipment performance and enhance efficiency in projects where they are deployed.”

Vermeer offers machines that facilitate greater mining productivity, precision, reduced wear and tear on cutting teeth, and consistent material sizing. These results are achieved through a cutting technique that allows cutting teeth to penetrate hard rock with the weight of the attachment rather than relying solely on the tracks. Mr. Tarique Salman, Segment Manager at Vermeer, mentions the company’s online management system: “Vermeer Telematics is an online tool that tracks machine productivity and job site management. Fleet or operations managers can access Telematics via smartphone, tablet, or computer to view real-time information about the GPS location, productivity (including idle times and fuel consumption), and maintenance needs of their Vermeer equipment. Telematics also sends alerts when a machine operates outside its expected GPS location and provides notifications.”

Many companies are actively working on new technologies to enhance mining equipment manufacturing and maintenance, adapting to the country’s ever-changing infrastructure demands. Continuous technological advancements are being made to further the growth of the sector.

Safe mining and tunnelling practices

As India expands its roads and highways, safety and sustainability are becoming top priorities in the mining sector. Manufacturers are stepping up their game by innovating equipment that keeps reliability and productivity high. They are developing clever attachments like rock breakers and vibro rippers that enable safe and sustainable mining without the need for controlled blasting. This way, they can preserve the environment and resources during construction.

Mr. Ranvir Singh Katoch, a Tunnelling Engineer from PEMS Engineering, shares his thoughts on India’s Green Corridor Highways expansion. India is actively working on expanding and constructing the Green Corridor Highways to promote a sustainable environment. He elaborated further on the impact, saying, “While there are environmental impacts during construction, the government and executing agencies take measures to safeguard resources and follow a well-structured approach. They also conduct regular plantation drives, including plant relocation from the alignment and plantations in the dumping area, to mitigate environmental effects.”

Mr. Puneet, on the other hand, explains that safety and operator comfort is premium for Case Constructions, and they ensure it with their intelligently designed excavators. “Our equipment features air-conditioned cabs, ergonomic controls, adjustable seating, and improved front, top, and sides visibility for safe operations. Moreover, we’ve adapted our machines to meet the BS-CEV IV emission norms and are gearing up to transition to the BS-CEV V emission norms, which will be introduced in April 2024.” They have also implemented environmental solutions in their mining equipment, such as the L-series excavators with a fuel-efficient FPT Engine designed to boost machine performance and optimise fuel economy. 

According to Mr. Dheeraj, it’s all about following and maintaining eco-friendly practices, advanced technologies, and safety protocols for mining and tunnelling. “These practices include implementing advanced technologies for efficient resource extraction, strict adherence to safety protocols, and using environmentally friendly equipment.” Measures such as land reclamation, waste management, and minimising air and water pollution are also considered. Such sustainable practices will balance infrastructure development with environmental preservation, ensuring a safe and sustainable approach to mining and tunnelling in support of road and highway expansion plans.

The coal mining industry aims to meet future production targets by enhancing productivity and safety through mechanisation, online monitoring, wireless communication underground, and IT systems. Considering this, Mr. Shantanu Roy, Director-Mining & Construction at BEML Ltd., talks of their commitment to enhancing productivity and safety through mechanisation, online monitoring, and eco-friendly electric motor-driven excavators. “We intend to ensure sustainable mining practices while meeting production targets. Our focus includes fuel-efficient electronic engines, safety features on equipment, auto fire detection, and central monitoring for quicker checks and higher reliability.” Furthermore, employing auto lubrication systems and AI integration to improve availability and reliability, while our environmentally friendly electric motor-driven excavators with zero emissions and low noise have helped them contribute to sustainable mining practices.

These remarkable advancements by various companies have paved the way for sustainable and environmentally conscious solutions while prioritising the safety of workers and operators and boosting production goals. It’s a win-win for everyone involved, promoting progress with a conscience.

Challenges in obtaining high-efficiency equipment for sustainable operations

When it comes to obtaining high-efficiency equipment for mining, contractors and project managers face various challenges, and there are different perspectives on the reasons behind these obstacles.

Mr. Ranvir Singh Katoch points out one crucial reason – the reliance on imported machinery and the management of a skilled workforce. Finding the right equipment can be challenging; having skilled operators handle these advanced machines is equally important.

Speaking on the topic, Mr. Puneet Vidyarthi from CASE Constructions addresses the hurdles in equipment procurement, like high initial costs and limited availability. He stresses the need for skilled labour: “Integrating new equipment into existing systems requires careful consideration to ensure compatibility and efficient operation. Skilled operators are essential for maximising the benefits of advanced machinery, necessitating training programs to equip personnel adequately.” 

For contractors, reliability and consistent performance are of utmost importance. Unexpected breakdowns and downtime can disrupt project schedules and lead to increased costs, so they want equipment they can trust. However, it’s also essential to evaluate the long-term return on investment when considering high-efficiency equipment, even though it may offer potential cost savings in the future.

BEML emphasises the shift towards electrification in mines to reduce harmful emissions and operating costs. They’re exploring new battery-operated power trains and hydrogen fuel cells that promise higher efficiency and lower maintenance than internal combustion engines. Electric-driven equipment is a promising solution to meet emission standards and save costs. 

The mining industry is constantly evolving, and these perspectives show the different aspects contractors and manufacturers are considering in their pursuit of efficient and sustainable solutions. It’s a dynamic field where finding the right balance between technology, workforce, and environmental impact is crucial for success.

India’s mining and tunnelling industries are at the forefront of innovation, driven by the nation’s infrastructure expansion. The proactive embrace of advanced technologies, local manufacturing initiatives, and sustainable practices showcase the industry’s commitment to growth and environmental responsibility. As OEMs and manufacturers continue to push boundaries and collaborative efforts foster self-reliance, the sector is well-positioned to shape India’s progress and prosperity in infrastructure development. With a focus on efficiency, safety, and environmental preservation, mining and tunnelling practices stand poised to meet future challenges, driving sustainable growth and positively impacting the nation’s infrastructure landscape.

Spokespersons & Quotes –

“Adaptation is crucial to meet India’s infrastructure needs, driving sector growth with advanced technologies.” – Dheeraj Panda, – Chief Operating Officer (Sales, Marketing & Customer Support), Sany India & South Asia

“New technologies are imperative for better equipment performance and efficiency.” –
B K R Prasad, General Manager – Marketing, Tata Hitachi

“India’s Green Corridor Highways promote a sustainable environment.” –
Ranvir Singh Katoch, Tunnelling Engineer, PEMS Engineering

“Safety and operator comfort premium with intelligently designed excavators.” –
Puneet Vidyarthi, Head-Marketing & Business Development – India & SAARC, CASE Construction Equipment

“Enhancing productivity and safety through eco-friendly electric motor-driven excavators.” –
Shantanu Roy, Director-Mining & Construction, BEML LIMITED.

“Online management system enhances mining productivity and equipment maintenance.” –
Tarique Salman, Segment Manager – Surface Excavation Machine, Vermeer