Codelco and ABB have signed a letter of intent to explore a long-term strategic collaboration looking into ways to further decarbonise the state-owned mining company’s numerous operational sites in Chile by deploying digitalisation, automation and electrification solutions.
The two companies aim to work together to identify Codelco’s innovation needs as the miner continues to fulfil its commitments to achieve its net-zero targets. These could include digital systems for more sustainable operations and operational excellence, electrification and automation of various mining operations including fleet electrification to achieve decarbonisation targets. Existing and future mining projects are under consideration in the scope.
ABB has a track record of developing technological innovation studies and will target objectives with the purpose of improving safety, productivity, operational expenditure and availability across Codelco’s open-pit and underground mines and large-scale processing facilities in Chile. Decarbonisation and technological innovation projects may also involve the handling or transport of materials in mines utilising ABB eMine™ solutions.
“There has been significant interest by both parties to work towards decarbonisation goals together for some time, including site visits and technology discussions,” said Nicolás Rivera, Vice President of Mining Resources, Development, and Innovation at Codelco. “We have strong ties with partners and collaborators around the world for the globally significant mining operations we have in Chile. Announcing our intentions with ABB is an important step we’re pleased to make.”
“Mining is evolving faster than it has done before, and only by all parties working together can we meet the demands coming from the wider world,” said Joachim Braun, Division President, ABB Process Industries. “The conversations at this year’s MINExpo showed that mining companies, equipment manufacturers and technologists are driving positive change together. Every day, quality reserves of metals and minerals are becoming harder to reach, but by taking steps into digitalisation, automation and electrification we can maintain supplies for the current energy transition.”
ABB draws on 130 years of experience in the mining industry and is a pioneer in the integration of automation, electrification, and digitalisation in mining.
ABB has deployed the likes of digital twins, and digital process performance and operational excellence technologies including energy management and decarbonisation systems in mines around the world. Mining companies have also benefited from integrated automation and electrification technologies through the eMine™ portfolio.