Barrick implements CBO solar-powered network at its Cowal gold mine

Gold miner Barrick recently implemented a solar-powered Cisco wireless mesh network designed by Brisbane-based CBO Telecommunications at its Cowal gold mine in NSW

Toronto-based Barrick is the gold industry leader in production, reserves and market capitalisation. The company operates globally, with a portfolio of 27 operating mines and advanced exploration and development projects and large land positions on some of the most prolific and prospective mineral stores.

Last year, CBO Telecommunications was commissioned to design and implement a wireless mesh network at the Cowal operations to help run its mine site fleet automation system and integrate into the existing corporate network.The company also  needed the wireless network to be relocated quickly to anywhere within the mine, regardless of pit depth or geographical distance, yet still provide continuous, reliable connectivity.

CBO Telecommunications, a Premier Certified Cisco Partner, designed and deployed the solution, comprising Cisco Aironet 1524SB Outdoor Mesh Access Points, managed by Cisco Prime NCS. CBO deployed the network on its own Solar Mobility trailers that are easily moved within the mining operations.

 The Cowal minealso uses the Caterpillar MineStar software to manage its mining dispatch operations.  Barrick operators have screens in their vehicles, which allow them to enter information into a visual, graphical interface.

To take full advantage of the software solution, Barrick requires mobile wireless network coverage to provide continuous connectivity across the mine, wherever and whenever it’s needed, as mining operations progress from one location to another.

CBO Telecommunications managing director Mark McGregor said the rollout of Cisco Mesh Access Points had been brilliant. “With both fixed points and CBO Solar Mobility trailers, the solution delivers a robust and scalable platform for the mine to grow its connectivity assets,” he said.

“Our mobile wireless network can change from week to week as the topology and depth of the mine changes. For mobility, we simply move the CBO Solar Mobility trailer and point its solar panels north, supplying connectivity where it’s needed to help work at the mine progress safely and efficiently.

“We can finish in one part of the mine, then move over to another part and start operations right away.”

“Upgrading the Caterpillar MineStar dispatch system from a legacy 900 Mhz to Cisco Mesh technology enables companies like Barrick to improve productivity through more efficient fleet management, loading, hauling, bulldozing and dispatch - all in real-time, without manual uploads or legacy two-way radios,” Mr McGregor said.

Data and updates are transmitted in real-time to the centralised control room to help management and dispatchers alike make smart decisions about the mine’s efficiency, productivity, asset maintenance and safety.  As well as lowering day-to-day costs across the mine, the enhanced communications delivered by the CBO wireless mesh network has improved both efficiency and safety.