South Africa’s Master Drilling has continued to build its in-house technology portfolio with the acquisition of Chilean safety tech company, Konec.
Johannesburg-listed Master Drilling described Konec as a “pioneering technology company specialising in integrating equipment with artificial intelligence (AI) solutions for the mining sector”.
“Its flagship product, an AI-powered anti-collision proximity detection system, has set new standards in mining safety by preventing accidents involving personnel and heavy machinery,” it said.
“This strategic acquisition aligns with Master Drilling’s vision of integrating innovative technology to enhance safety, efficiency and long-term competitiveness in the industry.”
Konec has worked with copper major Codelco and other South American miners to validate and commercialise its technologies.
“Konec now serves as the company’s dedicated technology arm, spearheading the development of innovative integrated AI-driven solutions,” Master Drilling said.
“In addition to its anti-collision system Konec is advancing the integration of AI-driven imagery and long-range microwave radars into a collision avoidance system. This breakthrough technology is poised to become the new benchmark for mining safety in Chile and across global mining operations.”
Luis Pina, CEO of Konec, said the Master Drilling union gave the small firm an opportunity to “take our technological solutions to the next level, driving digital transformation in mining”.
