Grupo Frisco Implements AI to Handle Explosives Management

Grupo Frisco’s San Francisco del Oro mine is the first mine in the country to utilize an advanced artificial intelligence (AI) assistant for explosives management, aiming to improve efficiency, safety, and regulatory compliance in mining operations.

The integration of the AI assistant powered by XControl’s platform will facilitate continuous and personalized training for employees, ensuring that each worker remains up to date with the latest regulations and best practices. The system provides immediate access to educational resources and updated procedures, promoting a constant and adaptive learning environment. 

Raymundo Ceja, President, XControl, explains that with XControl, the San Francisco del Oro mine can follow operational procedures with greater precision and adhere strictly to current legal regulations. The platform allows for quick and detailed consultations on various aspects of mining processes, ensuring that operations are efficient, transparent, and compliant with the law.

A key feature of this AI assistant is its ability to manage the traceability of explosives. XControl notes its platform enables detailed and real-time tracking of explosive use, optimizing their application to maximize efficiency and minimize waste.

The use of AI in explosive management will support the continuous improvement of methods and procedures. Through data analysis and AI-based recommendations, proactive improvements in handling and using explosives can be implemented, raising safety, and efficiency standards. 

XControl expects that this partnership with Grupo Frisco will set a new standard in mining practices. This tool is one of several AI functions that Grupo Frisco and XControl Technologies are jointly developing.

Technology in the Mining Sector

The implementation of AI in mining offers benefits such as cost reduction, increased productivity, and regulatory compliance, making this technology a valuable investment for any modern mining operation. Experts note that the industry, aiming to boost productivity, reduce costs, and minimize environmental impact, cannot depend on outdated technology, as optimization has surpassed human capacity to manage these challenges effectively. "New technologies allow us to promote automation to improve risk management and ensure the well-being of our employees and communities. These innovations also enable us to make our water and energy consumption more efficient and minimize our carbon footprint," says Octavio Alvídrez, CEO, Fresnillo.

Implementing new technology can pose challenges for companies, as some workers may hesitate to adopt these systems due to concerns about job security or doubts about their effectiveness. However, experts argue that rather than displacing jobs, technology can actually free up workers to concentrate on more valuable tasks within mining projects. However, experts have noticed technology adoption is gaining steam among the sector. The mining industry is one of the most conservative sectors in the world. However, in the past seven years, the sector has witnessed a generational change in company leadership, which has accelerated the technology transition,” notes Jesús Pelayo, Vice President, FLSmidth.