This week, Shaw Business deployed Western Canada’s first-ever industrial-grade private LTE network for mining systems for Teck Resources, providing significantly greater coverage and connectivity at Teck’s Elkview Operations in British Columbia. Developed by Shaw in partnership with Nokia, the network for mining systems was created to support the deployment of Teck’s RACE21 program designed to transform how the company mines by harnessing technology and innovation.
The industrial-grade, 5G-ready private LTE network, which will be built exclusively for Teck, will provide greater coverage and reliability as compared to the traditional, non-dedicated wireless networks, according to the company. Teck is also looking at opportunities for using 5G-ready private LTE network technology at other operations.
“Teck’s RACE21 program aims to generate new value, reduce operating costs and significantly improve safety, sustainability and productivity at our operations, and improving network infrastructure will support achieving those goals,” said Andrew Milner, senior vice president and chief transformation officer, Teck.
Because it is fully private, Teck can operate mission critical applications without the conflict of any outside IT and operations constraints that are prevalent in similar non-dedicated wireless networks, according to Shaw Business.
Katherine Emberly, president, business, Shaw Communications, said, “Through this project, we were able to combine our spectrum assets with our deep industry knowledge and sector expertise to help Teck boost productivity, efficiency, and improve safety while transforming their network infrastructure to deliver significant operational value.”
Jeffrey Maddox, president, Nokia Canada, added, “Nokia’s 5G-ready private wireless portfolio enables Teck to be future-proofed for years to come — allowing for significant digital transformation in the mining industry and beyond.”
