Gefran stands out in the mining technology sector thanks to continuous innovation and product quality.
Kalpesh Desai
Managing Director, Gefran India
What are the current trends in the mining equipment and solutions market that you believe are shaping the industry?
The mining equipment market is currently going through a fast-evolving time period, being under the influence of various key trends. One of the more significant refers to the increasing use of advanced technologies such as automation and digitalization. Mining companies are investing in automation solutions to improve the efficiency in operations and to reduce costs. Following close, the use of smart sensors has also grown, where Gefran provides a wide portfolio for pressure and position measurement. Namely, Gefran’s TWIIST for multivariable linear position in CAN Open, and the KMC pressure transducer in CAN Open Safety SIL2 PLd, which allow real time monitoring of equipment and operations. In addition, there is a growing focus on environmental sustainability. Stricter regulations and social expectations are pushing companies to implement greener practices. Modern mining equipment is designed to reduce environmental impact, such as through the use of more efficient hydraulic systems that minimize energy consumption and emissions. Another important trend is predictive recognition of maintenance. Thanks to the analysis of data collected by Gefran’s sensors, companies can predict equipment faults before they happen, reducing inactive times and repair costs. This approach improves not only the reliability of mining operations but allows high security standards for operators. Lastly, the increasing demand for automated mobility in mining operations is reshaping this market’s scenery. Automated mining vehicles are designed to work without direct human intervention, increasing productivity and safety for operators.
How does your company differentiate itself from competitors in the mining technologies sector?
Gefran stands out in the mining technology sector thanks to continuous innovation and product quality. We are specialized in the manufacturing of pressure sensors, position sensors, rotary sensors and inclinometers, specifically designed for mining applications. Our company implements cutting edge measurement technologies, offering superior accuracy and precision compared to direct competitors. Furthermore, we focus on full product customization to satisfy the specific needs of our clients in the mining industry. Our sensors can also be entirely integrated in already existing systems, ensuring optimal interoperability. Our focus on safety is another key factor that differentiates us. Gefran’s sensors are designed not only to monitor equipment performance but also to ensure operator safety. We implement high safety standards and certifications such as SIL2, PLd in our products. Another important factor is represented by our unique and distinctive commitment to environmental sustainability. We develop technologies that not only improve operational efficiency but also reduce the environmental impact of mining operations.
In what ways do your products address environmental concerns and sustainability during mining operations?
Our products are entirely developed and manufactured within our productive plants and can solve various specific needs through innovative strategies. First of all, our sensors are designed to optimize energy consumption of mining equipment. Thanks to the use of advanced technology, we can ensure a more efficient use of machines, reducing fuel consumption and harmful emissions. Our GIT inclinometer with redundant output and TWIIST multivariable sensor can help monitor and control with precision the movement of equipment (through spatial movement analysis). This allows for more efficient material handling, therefore reducing waste production during mining operations. In Gefran, we have been investing for over five years in the research and development of sustainable materials for our products, through recyclable material and low carbon footprint processes. We also work with clients that we call “Early Adopters”, with whom we study predictive maintenance programs based on data collected by our sensors. Our approach not only improves equipment reliability, but also helps extending the live span of machinery, reducing the need of repairs and environmental impact.
What future trends do you foresee in mining, and how is your company preparing for these changes?
For the upcoming future, we see various trends of this market that could significantly influence our approach. One of which is the acceleration of automation in mining operations. With the increased use of automated technology, we are preparing to develop even more advanced sensors capable of supporting automated vehicles and systems. As sensors manufacturer, Gefran expects an increase in the use of digitalization of the mining market. Data collection and analysis will be always more critical when trying to optimize operations. We are also investing in similar technologies to the Internet of Things, that will be used to integrate our sensors with digital platforms that allow real time monitoring and smart resource management. Sustainability will still be a growing priority for this sector, as we research to develop innovative solutions to reduce environmental impact of mining operations through cleaner and more efficient technologies. Lastly, we also expect more focus on operator safety in response to more strict regulations, which is supported by the integration of the CAN OPEN Safety communication standard of our sensors. We are working on solutions that will not only improve safety but will also provide useful data for a safer working environment.
What are the major challenges and opportunities in mining technologies’ space?
Some of the major challenges include the rising pression from norms regarding environmental sustainability and work safety. Companies must rapidly adapt to these norms without compromising productivity or increasing operation costs. Another challenge stems from the scarcity of qualified workforce in the mining industry, where the need of specialized know-how increases the use of advanced technologies. Therefore, finding adequately trained personnel proves difficult. These challenges provide significant opportunities for Gefran, where the rising demand for automation offers tech companies a chance to develop innovative solutions to improve operation efficiency. There’s a steady request of sustainable technologies for the mining industry, and companies capable of providing these solutions have a significant competitive advantage. In conclusion, the global market offers opportunities to expand our operations beyond national borders, especially in emerging markets where there is a growing need for mining equipment modernization.
These considerations clearly outline how Gefran can meet market challenges while capitalizing on emerging opportunities in the modern mining industry.
