<p>BNI Coal employs the WingtraOne to survey its Center Mine, which yields roughly 4.5 million tons of lignite coal annually. The company reclaims approximately 210 acres of land each year. Previously, BNI Coal used manned aircraft for quarterly reports, which was costly and infrequent. To overcome these obstacles, BNI Coal integrated drone technology, initially the senseFly Ebee, then the WingtraOne.</p>
<p>The WingtraOne has proven more efficient and reliable. It offers superior coverage per flight, better wind resistance, and predictable flight patterns compared to the previous drone. BNI Coal now conducts two to three flights monthly, covering 640 acres per flight, a significant improvement over the older drone that required four times as many flights to cover only 160 acres. This shift has also reduced the flight crew size and enhanced safety by decreasing the need for surveyors to work in active mining zones. The drone provides more accurate data, which helps with volume tracking and safety planning.</p>

Drone mining surveying at BNI Coal offers clear ROI and safer sites

Wingtra

WingtraOne Gen 2

Drones

Mining companies can purchase drones equipped with high-resolution cameras, LiDAR, thermal imaging, or multispectral sensors to conduct aerial surveys, inspect equipment, and monitor site conditions.

Hardware

Specialized software processes drone-collected data, generating 3D maps, topographical models, and volumetric calculations for stockpile management, exploration, and environmental monitoring.

Software

Service providers offer drone-based surveys for mine planning, tailings dam monitoring, and safety inspections, reducing risks associated with manual inspections in hazardous areas.

Service

Companies provide training programs for mine personnel to operate drones, comply with regulations, and interpret aerial data for better decision-making.

Training

Tailored drone integration projects, such as autonomous drone deployment, AI-powered monitoring, or custom sensor installations for specific mining needs.

Project

Mining firms can rent drones with specialized equipment for short-term projects, eliminating the need for large capital investments while accessing advanced drone technology.

Drone mining surveying at BNI Coal offers clear ROI and safer sites

Description

Information