About
Newtrax is a leading underground mining technology platform, now part of Sandvik's comprehensive digital solutions portfolio following its strategic acquisition. Newtrax specializes in deploying wireless IoT sensor networks throughout underground mines to deliver real-time visibility into worker locations, equipment status, and environmental conditions. Its core offering centers on worker safety through proximity detection and collision avoidance systems, which are critical in environments where heavy machinery and personnel operate in close quarters. The platform provides connected fleet telemetry, giving mine operators live data on equipment utilization, health, and positioning. This data feeds into operational analytics and shift execution tools that help planners optimize productivity and reduce downtime. Integration with Sandvik's broader AutoMine® automation suite, Deswik mine planning tools, and Polymathian optimization models enables end-to-end digital mine management from planning through execution. Newtrax is purpose-built for underground hard rock and soft rock mining enterprises seeking to improve safety compliance, boost operational efficiency, and support the transition toward autonomous mining. It suits large mining companies, contract miners, and operations looking to implement data-driven decision-making. The platform is delivered as an enterprise solution with hardware, software, and ongoing services, making it a fit for mines at various stages of digital maturity.
Key Features
- Worker Safety & Proximity Detection: Real-time tracking of personnel locations with proximity detection and collision avoidance alerts to prevent accidents involving heavy machinery.
- Connected Fleet Telemetry: Live monitoring of underground equipment health, utilization, and positioning to reduce unplanned downtime and improve asset management.
- Operational Analytics & Shift Execution: Data-driven tools for operational planning, shift management, and performance reporting across underground mining operations.
- IoT Sensor Network Infrastructure: Wireless mesh network deployment throughout underground mines enabling continuous, reliable data collection from personnel and equipment.
- Integration with Sandvik Digital Ecosystem: Seamless connectivity with AutoMine® autonomous systems, Deswik mine planning, and Polymathian optimization for full-lifecycle digital mine management.
Use Cases
- Monitoring real-time locations of underground miners to enforce safety zones and emergency evacuation procedures.
- Detecting proximity conflicts between heavy equipment and personnel to trigger automated collision avoidance warnings.
- Tracking underground fleet utilization and equipment health metrics to optimize maintenance scheduling and reduce downtime.
- Integrating operational shift data with mine planning tools to improve productivity reporting and decision-making.
- Supporting the safe deployment of autonomous underground mining equipment by providing personnel awareness layers.
Pros
- Comprehensive Safety Coverage: Industry-leading proximity detection and collision avoidance significantly reduce the risk of fatalities and injuries in underground environments.
- End-to-End Digital Mine Integration: As part of Sandvik's ecosystem, Newtrax connects safety, fleet, planning, and automation tools in a single coherent platform.
- Proven at Scale: Deployed in major underground mining operations globally, demonstrating reliability and ROI in demanding real-world conditions.
Cons
- Enterprise-Only Pricing: Newtrax is designed for large-scale mining operations and is not accessible to smaller or mid-tier mining companies due to cost and infrastructure requirements.
- Hardware Deployment Complexity: Installing wireless sensor networks in underground mines requires significant upfront infrastructure investment and technical expertise.
- Vendor Lock-In Risk: Deep integration within Sandvik's ecosystem may limit flexibility when integrating with third-party mining software or equipment from other OEMs.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Newtrax and who owns it?
Newtrax is an underground mining IoT and digital intelligence platform that was acquired by Sandvik. It is now fully integrated into Sandvik's digital solutions portfolio alongside Deswik and Polymathian.
What safety features does Newtrax provide?
Newtrax offers real-time worker location tracking, proximity detection, and collision avoidance systems that alert both operators and personnel when machinery and people come dangerously close underground.
Does Newtrax work with non-Sandvik equipment?
Yes, Newtrax supports mixed fleet environments and offers telemetry solutions compatible with equipment from multiple OEMs, though deepest integration is available with Sandvik machinery.
What types of mines can use Newtrax?
Newtrax is purpose-built for underground hard rock and soft rock mines. It is suitable for large-scale mining operations across metals, coal, and other mineral extraction industries.
How does Newtrax integrate with automation systems?
Newtrax integrates with Sandvik's AutoMine® autonomous and tele-remote systems, providing the safety and telemetry data layer that enables safe co-existence of autonomous equipment and human workers underground.
