We invest in technological solutions aimed at reducing operational risks related to dams and tailings storage structures while enhancing safety for people and the environment. These initiatives include, for example, the use of advanced technologies at our geotechnical monitoring centers and unmanned equipment for operations in high-risk areas. We also invest in enhancing the Vale Geotechnical Laboratory and in research, development and innovation projects, establishing partnerships with universities and research centers.
Geotechnical monitoring centers
Vale operates three monitoring centers distributed across its Northern, Southeastern and Southern corridors in the states of Pará and Minas Gerais.
These centers operate 24/7, using innovative technologies to monitor geotechnical structures, including tailings dams. Equipped with drones, radar, video monitoring systems and sirens, they help ensure the safety of operations and communities through continuous monitoring.
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Photo: Ricardo Teles
Unmanned equipment
The use of unmanned equipment is one of Vale’s major innovations. In higher-risk areas, vehicles such as trucks, bulldozers and excavators are operated remotely, allowing activities to be carried out from a distance while ensuring the safety of the workers involved. These vehicles have been widely used for tailings removal and the decharacterization of upstream dams.
In addition, remote drilling is used for geotechnical investigations. This solution makes it possible to investigate structures without the need for personnel to be physically present on site, significantly reducing exposure to operational risks.
Vale Geotechnical Laboratory
The Vale Geotechnical Laboratory was created in 2019 to generate knowledge about the behavior of soil and the materials used in mining, supporting the safety and efficiency of operations. Today, it is recognized nationally and internationally for its technology, methodologies and the quality of its geotechnical investigations.
Located at our Mineral Development Center in Santa Luzia, Minas Gerais, the laboratory is equipped with state-of-the-art equipment for advanced testing of soils and tailings, providing highly reliable scientific data. As well as supporting Vale’s operations and projects, it plays an essential role in validating new methodologies and developing solutions that strengthen the safety of structures and improve operational efficiency.
As well as supporting Vale’s operations and projects, it plays an essential role in validating new methodologies and developing solutions that strengthen the safety of structures and improve operational efficiency.
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Research, development and innovation
Geotechnical challenges in Brazil and around the world require increasingly intelligent solutions. In this context, Vale has significantly expanded its investments in research, development and innovation.
These initiatives have contributed to new technologies that extend beyond the Company, strengthening the global mining industry. Recent advances include new approaches such as open innovation in partnership with leading universities and research institutions, including the University of São Paulo, the federal universities of Rio Grande do Sul, Ouro Preto and Viçosa, the University of Brasília, the University of Toronto, Polytechnique Montréal, the TAILENG Center, the University of Coimbra, the Norwegian Geotechnical Institute and Imperial College London.
Among the practical applications, the following stand out:
Use of artificial intelligence and automation to predict scenarios and optimize decision-making;
Expansion of autonomous and unmanned vehicles in higher-risk areas to enhance safety and efficiency;
Circular economy projects, focused on repurposing tailings as an alternative to dams, in line with sustainability and innovation principles.
Photo: Daniel Mansur
Mining 4.0: applying new technologies to drive digital transformation
We believe that innovation is one of the keys to a safer, more efficient and more sustainable future. That is why we are at the forefront of Mining 4.0, applying digital technologies to transform every stage of our operations.
We integrate automation, connectivity and data intelligence to optimize processes and reduce risks.
The main technologies we use include:
Autonomous trucks and automated drills that increase productivity.
Connected sensors for real-time monitoring of equipment and dams.
Advanced analytics to predict failures and improve operational efficiency.
Data-driven decision-making powered by intelligent algorithms.
Safe inspections in high-risk areas and precise geological mapping
Virtual simulations for strategic planning.
Traceability and transparency throughout the value chain.
Specialized technical support to conduct geotechnical testing and strengthen the methodologies applied across the production chain.
Partnerships and research, development and innovation projects to strengthen knowledge, techniques and best practices.
Applying these technologies delivers important benefits, including:
Operational Efficiency
Reduced downtime and increased productivity.
Sustainability
Optimized resource use and lower environmental impact.
Enhanced safety
Reduced human exposure to hazardous environments.
Smarter Decisions
Real-time data for more informed strategic decisions.
By integrating automation, connectivity and data intelligence, we reinforce our commitment to safety, efficiency and sustainability. This ongoing advancement enables us to anticipate challenges, make more informed decisions and transform our operations end to end, preparing Vale for a more resilient, innovative and competitive future.
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