Connected consumables become living objects that are identified, traced and analysed in real time. At Bauma 2019, Epiroc will launch two digital solutions set to transform the role of consumables in mining and construction. As part of its “A bit smarter” concept, Epiroc launches digital solutions for smarter use of consumables. The new solutions will improve transparency and simplify planning, increasing availability and productivity for mining and construction companies.

“It is a big step towards bringing consumables to life”, says Fredrik Gabrielsson, Program Manager Connectivity at Epiroc. The first solution, Smart Consignment, automatically monitors stock levels and related transactions. “Keeping track of inventory levels and transactions helps us set up self-storage, giving customers full access to their own stock and an insurance that products are always available,” he continues.

Smart Consignment comes with an app that digitalises the supply process and creates end-to-end transparency and traceability. The concept is initially designed for tophammer drilling in surface and underground applications. The “A bit smarter” concept also includes Product Identification, which makes it possible to inform the rig which drill bit (or other consumable) is used at any given time.

“We use existing machine data from the rig to evaluate the performance of a specific product and to present it in a useful way,” Gabrielsson explains. Product Identification is initially designed for rotary drilling in surface mining. At Bauma 2019, Epiroc will show the first versions of Smart Consignment and Product Identification. Work will continue to refine the services and gradually introduce more “A bit smarter” solutions. “Our focus on interoperability lets us share more data and therefore help customers improve their planning and productivity,” Gabrielsson concludes.