and 5G that could deliver similar functionality, but without the associated cost and complexity,” adds Gys Malan, Solutions Architect at Datacentrix. “Tharisa also needed something easy to manage, without the overhead typically associated with traditional mesh networks.” A flexible alternative To address these challenges, the two organisations identified RADWIN’s FiberinMotion® technology as a viable alternative, offering high throughput, low latency and the ability to support mobility in demanding environments. Following initial consultations, Tharisa and Datacentrix collaborated on a Proof of Concept (POC) to validate the solution in a live mining environment. The POC incorporated a hybrid design of fixed high sites for point-to-multipoint and point-to-point connectivity, along with two temporary six-meter mobile towers simulating trailer-mounted high sites. Testing extended across several fleet assets, including excavators, a dump truck and a light-duty vehicle, to assess roaming performance, handover capability and overall network stability. “The POC phase involved multiple iterations, with repeated testing and validation under real-world conditions until we were confident in the solution, and the results were very encouraging,” says Collins. “We achieved broad coverage, and even where there were minor gaps, they aligned with our expectations based on tower positioning. It gave us confidence that we could meet our operational requirements.” From concept to deployment Following the successful POC, Datacentrix deployed the permanent network infrastructure, including two ruggedised, trailer-mounted towers acting as nomadic high sites that can move with the pit as it evolves. The solution has now been operational for approximately a year, delivering reliable connectivity across the mining environment. “The key outcome for us was enabling telemetry across our fleet and improving visibility into performance,” Collins explains. “We can now stream data, monitor operations and even support video feeds from equipment like excavators. That simply wasn’t possible before.” In addition to operational efficiency, the solution has enhanced safety through improved monitoring and control of fleet activity. “For example, we can track behaviours such as unsafe machine operation, enabling better operational control and contributing to safer working conditions,” he adds. A scalable platform for the future Beyond immediate benefits, the deployment has established a scalable digital platform for Tharisa’s broader operations. “We now have a network backbone that can support both critical and non-critical traffic, which is something we didn’t have before,” says Collins. “There’s still a maturity journey ahead in terms of optimisation, but the platform is stable and performing well.” According to Malan, the total cost of ownership of the infrastructure is also lower because it can be managed end- to-end internally. “This is different to an LTE environment, for example, which often would require external dependencies.”
In an open pit environment, conditions are constantly changing.
Setting the benchmark in Africa The Tharisa Mine deployment marks the first implementation of RADWIN’s FiberinMotion® technology in Africa, positioning the company at the forefront of connected mining innovation on the continent. With additional deployments already underway across the region, the project is setting a benchmark for how adaptable wireless architecture can enable digital transformation in mining. “What started as a challenge to achieve reliable connectivity has become a long-term proven platform strategy for us,” Collins comments. “We now know that we’ve invested in something that is not only effective today, but reusable across the group and scalable for the future.” To this point, the organisation is currently extending its use of the same technology at Karo Platinum, its newest low-cost, open pit PGM asset, located on the Great Dyke in Zimbabwe. “The Tharisa deployment was the first in Africa, and a second is now in progress at Karo Mining in Zimbabwe,” he says. “The Zimbabwe rollout will cover a significantly larger operational footprint, further demonstrating the scalability of the solution in complex mining environments.” The ability to deploy and manage the solution remotely has also been a key advantage. “We now have enough confidence in the platform to roll it out in another country without needing a team on-site within close proximity. That’s a critical factor for us.” A trusted partnership Collins highlights the role of Datacentrix as a key factor in the project’s success. “It comes down to trust and responsiveness. If I can pick up the phone and get support when I need it, that makes a big difference,” he says. “Datacentrix understands both the technology and the mining industry, which means we can align quickly and move forward without unnecessary complexity.” “The RADWIN FiberinMotion® solution has subsequently been adopted by several other local mining organisations, with the assistance of Datacentrix, reinforcing its ability to enable safe, scalable, and cost-effective digital transformation across the full mining lifecycle,” Malan concludes. n
JULY 2026 | www.modernminingmagazine.co.za MODERN MINING 35
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