Towards zero-entry mining: Sandvik’s David Hallett on the next phase of automation

How close is mining to a future where people are routinely removed from active production areas? In this Canadian Mining Journal interview, David Hallett, vice-president, automation, Digital Mining Technologies at Sandvik, discusses the path towards autonomous and zero-entry mining. We explore how AI, advanced analytics, digital twins and connected fleets could shape mine operations over the next decade, and how these technologies fit into Sandvik’s automation strategy. Hallett also addresses the challenges of moving from individual automation projects to integrated autonomous operations, sharing lessons from customers making that transition and discussing what broader adoption will require.

Watch the full video of the interview here: