Ericsson and Ambra Solutions to collaborate on private mission-critical networks for mining automation

Ericsson and Ambra Solutions, a turn-key engineering services systems integrator, announced on 29 April that they have entered into a global cooperation agreement, under which Ericsson will be Ambra’s radio partner of choice to provide 5G-ready network solutions to automate mining operations.

Applications include ventilation systems, real-time personnel and vehicle tracking, and remote controlling of machinery like scoop diggers, hauler trucks, drillers, and other mining equipment.

Ericsson claims that its 5G-ready radio system will enable Ambra to simplify its network deployments and replace up to 60 Wi-Fi access points with a single Ericsson solution. In addition, it states that mission-critical private LTE will allow specialised task and applications across an entire mining coverage area that were previously difficult or impossible to achieve when using leaky feeder cables or Wi-Fi connectivity.

Eric L’Heureux, CEO, Ambra Solutions, says: “We are excited to expand our partnership with Ericsson to a global footprint. The Ericsson products are optimal to deliver the most demanding applications used by the mining 4.0 industry. The reliability of Ericsson products enables more predictable, secure and lower-cost connectivity, and mining companies want to use a reliable product that is available worldwide.”

Shannon Lucas, head of customer unit emerging business for Ericsson North America, says: “The global mining industry has been vulnerable to challenges of energy consumption, equipment loss, and human safety. We have designed an easy-to-use cellular connectivity solution to address these issues and deliver efficiency through digital transformation, while creating a path to 5G. Ambra will sell this solution as part of its portfolio and will partner with Ericsson customers (global service providers) to deliver it, which opens up exciting new opportunities and revenue streams for the service provider.”