In recent years, the coal mining industry in China has undergone a significant transformation, with a particular focus on intelligent construction and operation. The ‘Three-year Action Plan for the Intelligent Construction of Coal Mines in Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region (2023-2025)’ is a comprehensive initiative aimed at modernising and enhancing the safety, efficiency, and sustainability of coal mines in the region.
This plan reflects a broader national push towards intelligent mining practices, recognising the critical importance of technology in addressing longstanding challenges in the industry. Within this context, the process of Intelligence Acceptance has emerged as a crucial benchmark for measuring progress and ensuring compliance with new standards. It represents a rigorous evaluation of a mine’s technological capabilities, operational efficiency, and adherence to safety protocols.
As coal remains a vital energy source for China, the successful implementation of intelligent systems in mines is not just a matter of technological advancement, but also of national energy security and economic stability. In this landscape of rapid change and innovation, Builder X has established itself as a key player and driving force behind the intelligent transformation of coal mines, particularly in relation to shovel and loader remote control.
The company’s contributions span across Xinjiang and beyond, encompassing a wide range of solutions from remote intelligent control systems for various mining equipment to the integration of cutting-edge technologies like AI. Builder X’s work has been instrumental in helping numerous mines achieve intelligence acceptance, setting new standards for the industry and paving the way for a safer, more efficient, and environmentally conscious future in coal mining.
To give some examples, Xingsheng Open-pit Coal Mine, part of Xinjiang Jiangna Mining Co Ltd, located in the Namuhu Desert, was the first to achieve intermediate intelligent coal mine status under the new regional action plan. It successfully overcame harsh working environments including high altitude, extreme heat, and rough terrain. The implementation of BuilderX excavator remote intelligent control systems enabled marked a significant milestone in intelligent mining.
Builder X has also been working with Jiangergobi No 2 Open-pit Coal Mine, part of Xinjiang Tianshan Energy Co Ltd, underwent a transformation to become a 10 Mt/y class smart coal mine. The focus was on upgrading and transforming construction machinery, particularly bulldozers, to achieve remote intelligent control. This approach aims to reduce manpower, increase safety, and improve overall efficiency in the mining process.
Recognised as the world’s largest uninterrupted coal field, the Zhungeer Open-pit Coal Mine, part of CHN Energy, and including the Heidaigou operation, was the first 10 Mt/y class open-pit coal mine approved during China’s 14th Five-Year Plan. Located in the heart of the Gobi Desert, it leverages advanced technologies such as 5G, AI, and AR to achieve intelligent upgrades. Notably, it was the first to realise unmanned on-site coal excavation, working closely with Builder X, and setting a new standard in the industry. This included converting a XCMG 700 t class XE7000 hydraulic backhoe excavator – to use its Tele+AI Operation System. The system provided also incorporates intelligent features such as pedestrian detection, bucket teeth detection, and posture monitoring, effectively mitigating the impact of harsh environmental conditions on operations.
Pingshou Coal’s mines in Inner Mongolia – Mongdong Mining, Baiyinhu Company and Xilinhe Company – have also collectively achieved successful intermediate intelligent assessment in Inner Mongolia. The transformation included upgrading all electric shovels with remote intelligent control. This achievement is particularly notable given the extreme temperature fluctuations (-40°C to 55°C) these mines face.
Hongshaquan No 1 Mine invested RMB 1.25 billion in intelligent construction. The mine tackles extreme weather conditions, including strong winds, temperatures ranging from -35°C to over 40°C, and severe sandstorms. Builder X upgraded three excavators with remote intelligent control in less than a month, demonstrating rapid adaptation to intelligent mining technologies.
Builder X told IM that it has become a key player in the intelligent transformation of China’s coal mining industry, making significant contributions to the acceptance and implementation of smart mining technologies. At the core of its offering are remote intelligent control systems, designed for a wide range of heavy machinery including excavators, loaders, and bulldozers. It says these systems have revolutionised traditional mining operations by enabling unmanned or reduced-personnel operations in hazardous environments.
The company adds: “Builder X’s approach to rapid deployment and adaptation has been particularly noteworthy, with some projects, like the Hongshaquan No 1 Mine, seeing system implementation in less than a month. This agility has been crucial in helping mines quickly meet new intelligent standards and improve their operational efficiency.”
Builder X says its technological innovations have been at the forefront of the industry, seamlessly integrating cutting-edge technologies such as 5G, artificial intelligence (AI), and augmented reality (AR) into their solutions. These advancements have not only enhanced the precision and reliability of mining operations but have also opened new possibilities for real-time monitoring, predictive maintenance, and data-driven decision-making.
“In terms of safety, Builder X’s systems have proven invaluable in extreme conditions, allowing operators to control equipment remotely from comfortable and safe environments, even in mines facing temperature extremes from -40°C to over 55°C. This has significantly reduced the risk of accidents and health hazards associated with harsh mining environments. Moreover, the efficiency enhancements and cost reductions achieved through Builder X’s solutions have been substantial.”
It says automated and intelligent systems have increased productive hours, optimised resource utilisation, and reduced operational costs. By enabling continuous operation and minimising downtime, these systems have helped mines boost their output while simultaneously reducing their workforce requirements in hazardous areas. “This combination of improved safety, enhanced efficiency, and cost-effectiveness has positioned Builder X as a key enabler in the intelligent acceptance process for mines across China, driving the industry towards a more sustainable and technologically advanced future.”
In conclusion, Builder X says it has established itself as a pivotal force in China’s intelligent coal mining transformation. Through innovative remote control systems for various mining equipment, the company has significantly enhanced safety and efficiency in challenging environments. Quick and efficient deployment capabilities and integration of advanced technologies have set new industry standards. Builder X’s contributions extend across diverse mining conditions, from Xinjiang’s deserts to Inner Mongolia’s extreme temperatures, demonstrating adaptability and reliability.
Looking ahead, Builder X says it is well-positioned to drive further innovation in intelligent mining. “As China continues to prioritise automation and intelligence in coal mining, Builder X’s expertise and proven track record place it at the forefront of this evolution. The company’s future outlook is promising, with potential for expanded influence both within China and possibly in international markets, solidifying its role as a key player in shaping the future of intelligent mining.”