Swedish company buys Sudbury-based mining automation firm

Sweden-based Hexagon Mining has acquired HARD-LINE, a Sudbury company that specializes in mine automation technology. (Supplied)

Sweden-based Hexagon Mining has acquired HARD-LINE, a Sudbury company that specializes in mine automation technology.

“HARD-LINE specializes in remote control solutions and network infrastructure, allowing for the tele-remote operation of heavy machinery from a control station in a safe area on the surface or underground, regardless of distance,” Hexagon said in a news release Wednesday.

The deal will bring fully automated mining closer to reality, the company said.

“The portfolios realize a life-of-mine vision, autonomously managing vehicle traffic, improving fleet situation awareness and introducing drill automation while protecting drivers, pedestrians and equipment in the most demanding environments.”

HARD-LINE will help them develop the technology “necessary for achieving full autonomy in the mine,” the company said.

“The pressure to remove humans from dangerous situations where it’s unsafe to operate a manned vehicle is increasing, particularly as mines push deeper underground for minerals and metals,” Nick Hare, president of Hexagon’s mining division, is quoted as saying in the news release.

“We recognize that remote control is a key enabler of the autonomy required to answer this need, which is one of many reasons we’re so delighted to welcome HARD-LINE to the Hexagon family.”

HARD-LINE president Walter Siggelkow is quoted as saying the agreement will benefit everyone.

“With Hexagon’s expertise and our internationally recognized technology, this acquisition really benefits both companies and customers in many ways,” Siggelkow said.

“While HARD-LINE solutions have positively changed how critical mining tasks are accomplished underground by our customers over decades, the geographical footprint achievable with Hexagon will only increase our impact towards safer mines through autonomous processes.”

• Download the CTV News app now and get local alerts on your device
• Get local breaking news and updates sent to your email inbox

Established in 1996 in Sudbury, HARD-LINE is a supplier of automation, teleoperation, and remote-control technology to the mining industry with branch offices in Chile, Peru, and the U.S.