Mining Acutely Focused on Safety, Reducing Risk: DSI Underground

Q: What do DSI Underground's operations in Mexico entail?
A: The company has been part of the Sandvik Group since 2021, as a division within Sandvik called Ground Support. We have a production plant in the city of Guadalajara, and warehouses in this same city and Chihuahua. Our main market is almost 100% underground mining, with a small percentage geared toward tunnel projects, although there have been fewer of these latter projects in recent years in Mexico. Mainly, we provide ground support solutions to underground operations. 

Q: What are the most sought-after products and services in DSI Underground's portfolio for the mining industry?
A: Our main products are friction bolts, which are grooved tubes inserted into the rock for stability, and welded mesh for surface rockfall prevention. We also offer strand cables for deeper anchoring, and chemical products like injectable resin and resin cartridges for load transfer.

As part of Sandvik, we now have access to a wider range of products and equipment. We are working to integrate DSI’s products with Sandvik's anchors, codes, and underground equipment, particularly bolting jumbos.

Q: What is the primary challenge among mining industry clients in developing their underground operations?
A: The safety of personnel and equipment is a top priority, with a clear trend toward increasing safety in all underground operations. The standard practice is to reinforce every meter advanced in the majority of operations. This approach leads to safer work environments, increased productivity, and faster progress, and it is now common practice in underground mining in Mexico, with few exceptions. This is the biggest challenge for our clients: minimizing accidents in rock excavation to nearly zero.

Q: When assessing options for contractors and mining companies, what factors does DSI Underground consider to determine the most suitable solutions? 
A: Every project is different, even within the same project because the terrain varies. We primarily support the geomechanics department of mining projects. This department is responsible for geological surveys and characterizing the terrain's resistance. Depending on the quality of the terrain, the amount of anchoring or support required varies. Our role is to suggest suitable products based on the conditions provided by the mining companies. We offer a range of products and conduct quality tests to determine the best reinforcement solutions for specific terrains.

There can be variability within a single mining operation, with different types of terrain requiring different anchoring solutions. We work closely with the geomechanics department to determine the most suitable anchors or supports for each specific terrain type. Our support includes continuous testing and training for the installation teams to ensure proper installation and load-bearing capacity.

In a mine, there are different types of structures with varying lifespans. Some may last only five or six months, while others, like ramps, may be used for 15 to 20 years, or the projected lifespan of the mine. For longer-lasting structures, higher-quality products with greater capacity are used.

Q: How has awareness among Mexican suppliers regarding international safety standards evolved over the years? 
A: There has been an increase in quality; however, we are not yet regulated by any official Mexican standard. We still reference the US ASTM standard – and the demand for quality has grown. Among our clients, there is a growing awareness of the need for quality standards, such as ASTM F432. Engineers and purchasing departments are increasingly requesting products that meet these standards. 

While there are still a few local competitors in certain mining areas in Mexico that may use steel that does not fully comply with the standards, there has been significant improvement. In 2017, we were at about 60% compliance, but I believe we are now nearing 80% in terms of suppliers meeting international standards. This demonstrates the growing demand for quality among both clients and suppliers.

I have not seen any national initiatives to create a Mexican standard yet. We still adhere to the US ASTM standard. There have been discussions, even internally, about lobbying for the adoption of a national standard, but so far, there has not been much progress. Mining companies, our clients, are also not demanding that suppliers comply with a Mexican standard; they ask for compliance with international standards. 

Q: How does DSI integrate emerging technologies into its operations and services?  
A: Especially now that we are part of Sandvik Group, which has a clear direction in all digital matters, we have started to offer products to address various situations, such as ground deformation resulting from work related to mining. For example, we offer sensors called xCell Cyclops. These sensors are installed on each anchor and allow for remote monitoring of the terrain and its behavior. Data is collected by the sensors and downloaded to a computer for easy access. You can then see in almost real-time how much your work is deforming the ground. 

Our sister company Edvirt offers an augmented reality solution focused mainly on training. We have simulators for Pipe-Umbrella installations, as well as Shotcrete, launching for reinforcement structures.

Q: What technological trends does DSI Underground observe in the mining sector?  
A: One of the biggest trends in mining is the electrification of equipment, which reduces air pollution underground and lowers the demand for ventilation. Another trend is process automation, with equipment that can be operated remotely, improving safety in challenging rock conditions. Drones are also being used for remote monitoring of rock deformation and topography, enhancing safety and efficiency. These trends aim to increase safety and reduce the inherent risks of underground mining, which is positive for the sector as no lives will be lost. 

Q: What are the company’s plans and objectives for the next six years within the mining industry?  
A: In our operations here in Mexico, safety has always been our top priority. We aim to have zero accidents among our employees, both in manufacturing and in customer service operations at the mines. Automation of processes is another key focus for us. Given the heavy industry nature of our operations, there is a high risk of accidents, especially hand injuries. Automating processes with robotics and autonomous systems improves safety and ergonomics, reducing the risk for our workers.

In the mining industry in Mexico as a whole, the focus on safety has led to a dramatic reduction in accidents, particularly those related to rock falls. Compared to 20 years ago, what used to be seen as excessive spending on fortification is now considered standard practice, which demonstrates the positive evolution of mining and marks the path we must follow. Automating processes and increasing safety to reduce risks are the main challenges we face.
 

DSI Underground provides ground support solutions for the mining and tunneling industries. Its products include rock bolts, mesh, ground support systems, and other solutions to enhance the safety and stability of underground excavations.