A modern asset optimisation system can help mines to go from reactive to predictive maintenance strategies, avoiding unnecessary maintenance and reducing operating costs. Extended automation solutions such as ABB Ability™ System 800xA can integrate modern maintenance systems from suppliers such as IBM, SAP and ABB Ability™ Ellipse, connected asset lifecycle management (CALM) from ABB Enterprise software.

A good example of this is the integration of IBM Maximo at Boliden’s Aitik mine in northern Sweden. With ABB Ability™ System 800xA, the operator is alerted by a predictive maintenance alarm if equipment needs repairing. They can access the maintenance system, see all upcoming work orders and easily add new orders. The field engineers can view the same information on their mobile devices and together they can decide on the optimal maintenance plan.

ABB Ability™ System 800xA’s asset monitoring functions for mining combine automation architecture with advanced information technologies, including integrated fieldbus. Called ABB Ability™ AssetVista Condition Monitoring for mining, this digital application monitors all mining assets in real time. This includes field devices, control systems and automation elements, as well as major assets such as heaters and generators.

“The ABB Ability™ AssetVista Condition Monitoring architecture and functionality promotes the creation of complex asset-specific monitors that not only makes use of the raw device data itself but also integrates it with process and environmental information to put the data into context and deliver more precise condition statements. This concept can be extended to complete production areas such as hoists, conveyors, mills and grinding and flotation circuits, thus creating a new level of insight into plant performance.”