Can you provide highlights from 2023 and early 2024 in North America?

GH: We have some very exciting opportunities with one of our global customers which operates throughout the Western USA and the eastern part of Canada. We are installing our Collaborative Information Server within their operations, and it has been quite a successful implementation. This server allows them to gather information all in one space for actionable results. By integrating the handling of all kinds of data from plant equipment, devices, and systems, this solution facilitates the optimized management of production activities across an entire enterprise. What mining services do you offer, and which have been most in demand recently?

GH: Our goal is to stabilize mining operations by managing fluctuations in material quality and throughput with our control systems. We address the natural peaks and valleys in mining by understanding and adjusting for variations in material to ensure consistent and efficient operations.

PR: Yokogawa offers a complete range of solutions from sensors to boardroom management, all of which are essential for mining operations.

How is the shift from industrial automation to autonomy progressing in North America?

PR: The shift from industrial automation to autonomy is accelerating. For instance, trends in Chile will influence North America and the rest of the world. We share advancements and insights across regions; they are supported by tools such as the Collaborative Information Server, which provides remote data access, benefiting both us and our customers. Many of our users are transitioning to autonomous operations across broad geographical areas.

GH: As we move from automation to autonomy, we offer customers flexible engagement levels, addressing human capital challenges in mining. Operators can work remotely rather than on-site or fly-in/fly-out. Our Collaborative Information Server allows real-time global data access, such as monitoring a US plant from a remote operations center in Australia, ensuring visibility into safety, production, and performance.

How is Yokogawa ensuring cybersecurity?

PR: With the rise of autonomy, cybersecurity has become essential. As the value of information grows, so does the need for robust security. The cyber threat landscape has certainly changed and is a key topic in all customer discussions. We offer a comprehensive range of cybersecurity solutions and services, including security operations centers (SOCs), which are rooted in a sound risk management strategy.

How does Yokogawa ensure safety in mining with current labor shortages?

GH: First, we are adopting robotics in dangerous environments through our Yokogawa platform, Robotics Management Core, integrated with Collaborative Information Servers for data collection. We also offer safety platforms for our distributed control systems, with safety integrity levels from SIL 2/3 to SIL 4. Our work platforms support safe entry and process execution with electronic safety checklists.

PR: We are enhancing safety by partnering with or acquiring technologies that prioritize safety, such as robotics in hazardous areas. The advancement of technology to improve safety and efficiency is a major goal for us and our customers, making our solutions increasingly popular.

How does Yokogawa view the future of mining?

PR: Technological advances are allowing Yokogawa to deliver top-tier products and services globally, from sensors to boardroom solutions, across various industries including mining.

GH: Yokogawa's co-innovation approach involves actively engaging with customers to understand their needs. For the mining and metals industry, our solutions enhance safety and support remote work, which are crucial for maintaining a safe working environment. Mining will continue to be vital, whether for rare earth elements or battery minerals, and we are excited to be a part of this essential industry.

What are key objectives for Yokogawa in North America?

PR: Looking to the future, technology will keep advancing at an ever-increasing pace. This progress in industrial control technology allows us to enhance our services globally, with our products accessible in Eastern and Western Canada, as well as the US. Our goal is to co-innovate with customers to continually improve.

GH: Yokogawa's growth in North America's mining and metals sector benefits from our global network. I collaborate with colleagues in Australasia and South America on shared customers and applications, introducing these solutions to our US operations.