The global mining industry is ramping up innovation in advanced tunnelling and anchoring machines in a bid to revolutionise excavation.  

According to GlobalData, patent filings in mining jumped from 754 in 2022 to 1,266 in 2023, with over 6,832 total patents filed for tunnelling and anchoring equipment.  

Likith Togita, senior disruptive tech analyst at GlobalData, said: “Tunnelling and anchoring machines are transforming mining operations by enabling deeper excavations with greater precision. These machines are designed to adapt to the diverse geological conditions, ensuring consistent performance even in the most challenging environments.” 

GlobalData’s FutureTech Series report ‘Tech Frontiers: The Mining Edition’ assesses high-impact innovations in the industry which also include precision milling, emergency rescue systems and high performance drill bits.  

The report also highlights the leading role of Chinese companies in developing tunnelling and anchoring machines, such as Tian Di Science and Technology, Shanxi Tiandi Coal Mining Machinery and Sichuan Huayingshan Guangneng.  

Tian Di Science and Technology filed a patent for a high-adaptability digging and anchoring integrated machine with a dual-mode anchor drilling system, designed to improve efficiency in tunnelling and anchoring operations across varying ground conditions. 

Another notable patent is Sichuan Huayingshan Guangneng Group’s large inclining angle fully mechanised hydraulic support anti-tilting and anti-sliding device. This is designed to enhance stability and safety in steeply inclined mining operations by preventing tilting and sliding of hydraulic support systems. 

Other leading patent filers in this area are Komatsu, Caterpillar and Sandvik. GlobalData analysis reveals that there are over 260 companies, spanning technology vendors, established mining companies, and up-and-coming start-ups engaged in the development and application of tunnelling and anchoring machine innovation. 

Togita concluded: “Despite the numerous benefits, challenges such as ensuring long-term durability, managing maintenance costs, and addressing the complexity of system integration with older machinery remain significant.  

“However, the drive for innovation and the industry’s focus on automation indicate a strong momentum that will shape the future of mining operations.”