Master Drilling has announced its acquisition of Konec, a pioneering technology company specialising in integrating equipment with artificial intelligence (AI) solutions for the mining sector.
This strategic acquisition aligns with Master Drilling’s vision of integrating innovative technology to enhance safety, efficiency and long-term competitiveness in the industry, it says.
Konec has established itself as a leading innovator in mining technology, with a primary focus on integrated AI-driven safety solutions. Its flagship product, an AI-powered anti-collision proximity detection system, has set new standards in mining safety by preventing accidents involving personnel and heavy machinery, Master Drilling says. Konec has been a key player in Chile, successfully developing, implementing, and validating this technology for Codelco.
The company said: “By integrating Konec into its operations, Master Drilling strengthens its position as a forward-thinking leader in mining technology. Konec now serves as the company’s dedicated technology arm, spearheading the development of innovative integrated AI-driven solutions. In addition to its anti-collision system, Konec is advancing the integration of AI-driven imagery and long-range microwave radars into a collision avoidance system. This breakthrough technology is poised to become the new benchmark for mining safety in Chile and across global mining operations.”
Roelof Swanepoel, COO of Master Drilling South America, said: “The acquisition of Konec represents a significant step in our long-term strategy to drive innovation in the mining industry. By combining our expertise in drilling with Konec’s cutting-edge integrated AI technology, we are enhancing our ability to deliver safer, more efficient solutions to our clients in Chile.”
By leveraging integrated AI-powered safety and operational solutions, Master Drilling enhances mining efficiency while significantly improving workplace safety, it says. The integration of Konec’s technology will contribute to a smarter, more automated and more secure mining environment, Master Drilling added.
Luis Piña, CEO of Konec, said: “The union with Master Drilling gives us the opportunity to take our technological solutions to the next level, driving digital transformation in mining. Together, we can improve safety and operational efficiency, opening new possibilities for the future of the industry.”
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