Tag Archives: Perth

ABB on the final piece of the electrification puzzle

Environmental, Mining equipment, Mining events, Power supply for mines, Sustainable mining, , , , , , , , , ,

Every train, industrial, or transportation vehicle needs a unique traction powertrain for operation, with ABB, through its Traction division, holding a complete and flexible product portfolio that, it says, allows it to build the perfect electrification solution for operators to transition businesses to more sustainable and lower cost operations.

Each of these solutions can be tailored to customer requirements and the operating conditions of each vehicle that it powers, enabling maximum energy efficiency, zero carbon emissions and high reliability.

The company is able to leverage high-tech e-mobility and rail system traction converters, energy storage systems and electric vehicle charging solutions as part of its offering, complementing this with enhanced expertise to help accelerate the transition to all-electric operations.

One project where its impact has been felt is at Nuh Cement in Turkey where ABB is working jointly with the company to convert 10 mainly Euclid/Hitachi dump trucks with an average 160 ton capacity, which have completed their 30-year service life, from diesel engine power to electric.

This is one of the first mining truck battery conversion projects of its kind in the world and will be discussed in more detail during a presentation at The Electric Mine 2024.

Ahead of the event, taking place at the Crown Perth Complex, on May 21-23, we spoke with Fabiana Cavalcante, Head of Mobile e-Power at ABB, to find out more about the offering.

IM: ABB’s Traction division is working within a very competitive landscape when it comes to e-mobility in mining. What would you say are your unique selling points to the industry?

FC: We bring over 130 years of experience in mining electrification, combined with extensive expertise in electrification and charging infrastructure for cars, buses and trucks. This allows us to extend our capabilities to the final piece of the puzzle: electrifying mobile equipment.

Fabiana Cavalcante, Head of Mobile e-Power at ABB

Our journey began by utilising our unique knowledge in rail propulsion systems and adapting it to the harsh environment of mining. Our roots in electrifying the Swiss railway network over a century ago have established us as leaders in sustainable transportation solutions. We have translated this experience to increase energy efficiency, reliability and reduce emissions across rail networks, electric buses and other heavy vehicles. The building blocks of the technology are similar, making for a smooth transition.

Besides this, what truly sets us apart is our capacity to execute customised customer projects. Battery-electric propulsion requires more personalisation compared to diesel, and our history as an independent supplier has equipped us with the skills, mindset and a perfect portfolio of proven base components to adapt quickly and in larger quantities than any other company.

IM: You work with multiple OEMs and solution providers across the globe looking to electrify their operations. Are most of these companies looking to electrify their offerings during a similar timeframe?

FC: Many mining operators have ambitious sustainability targets, aiming to reduce their Scope 1 and 2 emissions by at least 30% by 2030. By 2050, many operators aim to achieve net-zero emissions, and the only path to that is by electrifying their mining vehicle fleets. If every truck in every mine were electrified, we could remove 198,000 tons of CO2 from the atmosphere each day. Mining operators and OEMs recognise the potential to minimise their carbon footprint, and while this transition won’t happen overnight, we’re excited to partner with them and guide them on their electric journey.

IM: How often are you interacting directly with the operators during these types of projects? At this stage, is it often a collaboration between ABB, the OEM and the client?

FC: The level of interaction varies from project to project. In some cases, we have limited direct engagement with the mine operator, while in others, we are heavily involved. A recent example is our collaboration with Boliden and Epiroc, where we worked together to create the first battery-electric trolley truck system for underground mining. This close partnership was crucial to bringing this innovative project to life.

IM: In this regard, how does your work with Nuh Cement on converting its diesel powered fleet to electric power stand out from the work you normally carry out? Why is Nuh Cement able to collaborate directly with ABB on such a project?

FC: Nuh Cement approached us with the goal of converting their existing mining fleet of Euclid/Hitachi dump trucks to electric power and we officially began the project in 2022. We have vast experience in retrofitting vehicles for the rail business and we followed the same approach and procedures for the haul trucks.

The steep ramps with up to 20% gradient required us to pay close attention to ensure that the electric trucks could meet the expected performance and efficiency levels. This involved intense collaboration between both parties to translate simulations into practical, real-world solutions. Working closely with Nuh Cement, we tailored our solutions to fit their specific operational requirements and made sure our technologies aligned with their vision for a sustainable future. We hope many more mine operators will soon start to electrify their fleet and we’re excited to closely partner with them throughout their journey.

IM: Are you able to provide a sneak preview of what you will present at The Electric Mine 2024 in Perth about the Nuh Cement project? How has this project advanced since it was announced back in 2022?

FC: I’m excited to share the results of our groundbreaking collaboration with Nuh Cement at the event. Our partnership led to the successful electrification of a haul truck, demonstrating ABB’s ability to retrofit diesel-powered vehicles into fully electric ones – a milestone with significant implications for the mining industry. This transformation of a 30-year-old vehicle into a net-zero haul truck sets a new standard for sustainable mining practices worldwide.

Additionally, attendees will hear from Nuh Cement’s CEO, Kamil Gökhan Bozkurt, who will provide insights into this key project.

IM: In addition to what you have already discussed above, what can attendees of The Electric Mine 2024 look forward to hearing about next month?

FC: I encourage everyone to visit our team at booth 58 during the conference. Attendees will have the chance to explore our latest technology and innovations, including a preview of our new energy storage system, which offers exceptional lifespan, power and safety. We look forward to seeing you all there!

ABB is a Gold Sponsor of The Electric Mine 2024, with the company having a major indoor display in the exhibition hall. Fabiana Cavalcante will be on stage at the event presenting, ‘Powering progress: ABB and Nuh Cement’s zero emission dump truck’ during Day 1 of the event. Find out more about The Electric Mine 2024 by going to www.theelectricmine.com

Rio Tinto to partner with Founders Factory on commercialising breakthrough mining tech

Automation, Environmental, IoT, Mining finance, Power supply for mines, Sustainable mining, , , , , ,

Rio Tinto is teaming up with a leading global venture studio and start-up investor to back the development and commercialisation of breakthrough technologies in the mining industry, supporting the company’s efforts to find better ways to provide the materials the world needs.

The company will partner with Founders Factory and invest A$14.4 million ($9.5 million) in global pre-seed and seed stage start-ups over the next three years. The focus will be on technologies in the fields of safe mine operations, decarbonisation, exploration processing and automation.

Each start-up will receive a cash investment and participate in a four-month accelerator program run by Founders Factory to support product development and commercialisation.

The Western Australian Government has also partnered with Founders Factory to invest in nature-tech start-ups that preserve and restore nature and biodiversity.

The partnerships with Rio Tinto and the Western Australian Government will support the first Australian hub of Founders Factory in Perth, Western Australia, boosting the state’s innovation credentials. Founders Factory successfully operates in London, Johannesburg, Milan, Berlin, Bratislava, New York and Singapore.

Rio Tinto Iron Ore Chief Executive, Simon Trott, said, “Technology has always been at the forefront of our industry and Western Australia can be the Silicon Valley of the global mining industry.

“Our iron ore operations in the Pilbara are among the most technologically advanced in the world. This exciting new partnership gives us the opportunity to build on our innovative legacy to unlock new technologies and help our business find better ways to provide the materials the world needs.

“With the backing of industry and the State Government, local and international start-ups will receive investment opportunities and access to real-world testing and scaling support, helping Western Australia’s innovation economy to grow.”

Western Australian Premier, Roger Cook, said, “Securing the internationally renowned Founders Factory for Perth is a major coup for our state.

“This is the first time the tech accelerator has operated in Australia, providing a springboard for innovative local businesses to reach an international audience and maximise their chances of success.

“My government is committed to decarbonising our economy by 2050 and it’s vital that we support local startups developing the technology to reach this goal.

“This three-year partnership will further cement WA’s position as a global leader in research and the development, helping to diversify the economy and create the jobs of the future.”

Founders Factory CEO, Henry Lane, said: “We are excited to be partnering with Rio Tinto and launching operations in Western Australia. Startups can drive further productivity, safety and automation in the mining sector, whilst accelerating the industry’s transition to net zero.

“This program can help international and local founders test their technologies with the global leader in the sector and find pathways to commercial scale and impact.”

Epiroc to consolidate European manufacturing of hydraulic attachment tools

Equipment maintenance, Mining consumables, Mining equipment, Mining services, , , , , , ,

Epiroc says it is taking actions to promote efficiency within its Tools & Attachments segment, consolidating its European manufacturing of hydraulic attachment tools to improve competitiveness.

As a result of this move, the manufacturing facility in Essen, Germany, will be closed, Epiroc said.

Epiroc will consolidate the hydraulic attachment tools manufacturing in Europe to other existing production facilities in Kalmar and Fagersta, Sweden, and Dermbach, Germany. The consolidation will strengthen Epiroc’s competitiveness, it said.

Epiroc’s operation in Essen is planned to be closed by the end of 2025, with some 130 employees to be affected.

Helena Hedblom, Epiroc’s President and CEO, said: “We regret that this consolidation will affect our colleagues in Essen. These actions, however, are necessary to safeguard that we remain competitive within hydraulic attachment tools. We will ensure that our customers get the best products and solutions possible also onwards.”

The restructuring cost is estimated at about SEK155 million ($14.3 million) and will be reported in the December quarter of 2023.

Epiroc also has manufacturing of hydraulic attachment tools in the US, India and South Korea.

In an additional activity to increase efficiency and promote sustainable profitability in its Tools & Attachment segment, Epiroc has decided to cease production at its relatively minor rotary pipes and accessories facility in Perth, Western Australia.

Epiroc’s aim is that all the facility’s employees will be offered new jobs in the company.

Navtech Radar confronts mining’s dust problem with two new sensor-based solutions

Automation, IoT, Mining events, Mining safety, Mining services, Mining software, , , , ,

Navtech Radar has used the backdrop of the WA Mining Conference and Exhibition in Perth, Western Australia, this week to launch two new innovations in its industrial automation product range: a compact imaging sensor and anti-collision solution, suited for a mining environment.

Both the RAS (Robust Automation Sensor), a range of sensors specifically designed for harsh environments, and SafeGuard, the company’s brand-new, standalone, anti-collision system, are designed to work in any conditions where visibility is compromised, the company says.

Navtech Radar says it has been at the forefront of radar innovation for the last 25 years, delivering world-leading solutions in highways safety, critical national infrastructure, security and industrial automation. Its solutions provide very high resolution at ranges of up to 600 m, and are rugged enough to function in the toughest environments.

Sam Wood, spokesperson for Navtech Radar, said: “We are delighted to be showcasing our latest innovation at WA Mining. Both RAS and SafeGuard are the result of accumulated expertise in designing, building and deploying world-class, 360° imaging sensors, optimised for use in the toughest environments, especially for the mining industry. These innovative, smart-sensing systems have been engineered to address a specific gap in the sensor technology market. Where dust, snow, fog, or steam, for example, present challenges that cause traditional sensors to fail; radar’s robust, penetrating performance is unimpaired.”

Navtech Radar’s sensors are installed on existing mining machines and autonomous trucks and can be used for navigation, anti-collision, obstacle detection, stockpile measurement, situational awareness, autonomous vehicles and much more, the company says.

Wood added: “Crucially, given that dust is an inherent challenge in the mining sector, and can have an impact on productivity, safety and worker health, our radars are designed for mining-specific environments and built to operate in the harshest conditions, requiring no maintenance or cleaning.”

WesTrac to deploy Palantir Technologies’ Foundry across Component Rebuild Centres, Inventory Management teams

Equipment maintenance, IoT, Mining equipment, Mining services, , , , , , , , , , , ,

Palantir Technologies and WesTrac, one of the world’s largest Caterpillar dealers and leading provider of heavy mobile equipment and aftermarket services to the Australian mining and construction sectors, have announced a multi-year enterprise expansion of their partnership, which first began in 2021, to deploy Foundry across core operations.

The expanded partnership will initially focus on deploying Foundry across WesTrac’s Component Rebuild Centres and to Inventory Management teams, to drive greater overall efficiency and customer delivery for WesTrac, Palantir says.

Palantir’s Foundry operating system is being used to help increase throughput of WesTrac’s Component Rebuild Centre at its headquarters in Perth, Western Australia, and is being expanded to the Company’s Tomago facility, in New South Wales. Foundry is used daily by workshop planners and supervisors to improve task scheduling decisions, manage upcoming part constraints, and increase labour efficiency through proactive alerting on task performance and schedule adherence. Foundry will also be leveraged by WesTrac’s Inventory Management teams to identify deficits in available inventory that may block workshop progress, enabling the team to make more proactive ordering decisions, Palantir says.

Jarvas Croome, CEO at WesTrac, said: “In the current technology-rich era, WesTrac has a strong focus on incorporating enhanced data-driven decisions across our business as we look to drive our own digital transformation and improve delivery of Cat® products in Australia. Implementing Foundry has delivered a strong initial return on investment, and we anticipate the five-year expansion of our partnership with Palantir will enhance return on investment and enable more data-driven decisions. The Foundry platform has been a leading feature within WesTrac, with rapid uptake, high usability and widespread acceptance by users across the business.

“As we expand the scope of Foundry, including to new applications like artificial intelligence (AI) solutions, we expect uptake of Palantir’s products to increase. WesTrac is committed to providing world-class products and services to our customers by ensuring operations are supported by the latest technology, which is why we are pleased be extending our partnership with Palantir.”

Ashwin Rajan, Head of Commercial for Australia at Palantir, said Foundry is now serving as the digital twin for WesTrac’s core operations, delivering tangible business benefits.

“The suite of software in Foundry help front-line Component Rebuild Centre & Inventory Teams improve overall efficiency and customer delivery,” he said. “For example, in just the last six months, Foundry has identified a significant number of constrained parts blocking work order progress – and suggested remediation strategies to ensure continued operations. WesTrac predicts these outcomes alongside improvements in inventory management will drive overall throughput up by at least 5% over the next five years, with additional benefits expected in other areas such as reduced working capital requirements and improved time to invoice.”

In addition to Foundry, WesTrac plans to explore AI solutions leveraging a suite of software including Palantir’s new Artificial Intelligence Platform (AIP). AIP, Palantir says, can allow WesTrac to better connect sales to operations, by enabling sales functions to ask questions of workshop operations, to inform sales strategy and improve the accuracy of information provided to customers.

Komatsu opens A$6 milllion training centre to address WA skills shortage

Automation, Careers in mining, Mining equipment, Mining services, , , , , ,

Komatsu has opened a new A$6 million ($4.1 million) state-of-the art training academy in Western Australia as part of the OEM’s plans to address a critical skills shortage in the state.

The opening of the training academy in the Perth suburb of Welshpool coincides with Komatsu doubling its annual investment in training to A$12 million dollars, it says.

Construction of the recently completed Perth training academy includes advanced workshop training rooms, a 30 t crane heavy lifting bay, and labs dedicated to hydraulics and electronics.

Regional General Manager, Glenn Swift, says the purpose-built facility is Komatsu’s response to a critical skills shortage, particularly in Western Australia’s resource sector.

“Skills and labour shortages are a significant challenge for the resource sector,” he said. “We need to invest in training and upskilling programs to ensure that our workforce is equipped with the necessary skills to meet the demand for these industries.”

Komatsu’s training centre offers both apprentice and post-trade technical training in mining and construction industry jobs with a focus on diesel mechanics, auto electricians and fabricators.

Company research shows upon completion of Komatsu’s apprenticeship program, Komatsu’s customer-facing employees will be approximately one year ahead of an equivalent conventionally-trained apprentice who has completed an apprenticeship outside of this system, it says.

This, the company says, is down to its training methods incorporating VR/AR and its highly proficient educators. Komatsu also recognises the importance of equipping apprentices with important life skills, such as mental health awareness, public speaking, road safety and fatigue management, drug and alcohol awareness, and a variety of business skillsets.

In addition, Komatsu maintains an 84% retention rate, far exceeding industry standards by up to 30%, it says.

Komatsu General Manager Training and Capability, Janine Gurney, says apprentices gain experience in next-generation technology including telemetry and driverless trucks as well as learning essential life skills.

“It’s about fitting into the broader company culture where we focus on safety, community, career progression and access to the latest technologies,” she said. “Our aim is that the apprenticeship is the first step in a lifelong career with us.”

Gurney said the company aims to train 600 apprentices by 2025.

Women filled nearly half of the 2023 intake of 75 places, and the 2024 intake will open in July.

Gurney said Komatsu is a pioneer of autonomous haulage systems, and a leader in smart construction via integrated technology as it builds a workforce of the future.

She concluded: “We want to help ordinary operators become fantastic operators so that when they are cutting or digging trenches, for example, their precision is to the exact millimetre and a lot of our current technology does this for them.”

New CORE Innovation Hub opens in Newman, Western Australia

Equipment maintenance, Mining equipment, Mining industry recognition, Mining services, , , , , , , ,

The CORE Innovation Hub Newman has officially opened its doors at Parnawarri, in Western Australia, becoming the first business innovation centre in Newman to support the local mining equipment technology and services (METS) industry.

The specialist METS business hub, co-working and education space supports start-ups, small and medium businesses and industry working across the mining sector, according to BHP, with the new satellite hub allowing businesses to take advantage of CORE Innovation Hub’s  national mining and resources ecosystem, where they will be able to connect with potential partners, work with industry experts and expand their business network.

The Newman facility comes on top of the original CORE Innovation Hub in Perth and a second one in Adelaide. The plans for Newman were announced last year.

Newman Innovation Hub Lead, Natalie Jones, said: “This initiative is a huge investment into the future of Newman and the surrounding Pilbara region. The hub will help drive our local regional businesses forward in Newman, across the Pilbara and beyond.”

BHP is a major sponsor of this hub along with the Department of Jobs, Tourism, Science and Innovation and METS Ignited Australia.

Liebherr-Australia prepares for zero emission tech developments with Perth facility expansion

Automation, Environmental, Equipment maintenance, Mining equipment, Mining services, Power supply for mines, Sustainable mining, , , , , ,

Liebherr-Australia has expanded its Perth mining facility, adding 47,000 sq.m of workshop, office and build space to the complex, strengthening the company’s ability to deliver accelerated zero emission solutions to the wider market.

Perth is Liebherr-Australia’s second largest branch after the company’s head office in Adelaide, South Australia.

Liebherr says the company’s growing involvement in the development and implementation of zero emission technology with Australian customers illustrates the necessity for this investment in infrastructure, and signifies Liebherr’s commitment to these industry-leading projects.

The Redcliffe-based branch purchased the land and buildings adjacent to the current location, increasing the Liebherr complex from 34,000 sq.m to 81,000 sq.m. The new acquisition includes two workshops and a three-storey office building, adding to Liebherr’s existing 3,000 sq.m service workshop, 5,000 sq.m parts warehouse, along with an administration building and build area.

Liebherr-Australia Managing Director, Trent Wehr, said: “This is our largest investment in infrastructure here in Australia in many years, and this signifies how vital this facility is for our current and future business. Liebherr’s developments in zero emission technology, and the projects we are working on with industry partners and customers, are progressing every day and will deliver tangible solutions for the wider industry well before 2030.

“The team at Liebherr-Australia is making important contributions to the decarbonisation of the mining industry, and we’re committed to resourcing this momentous work for both our long-term success and the benefit of the whole industry.”

The newly acquired office and workshop buildings will form the central hub for Liebherr’s mining zero emission, autonomy and other technology development and implementation projects in Australia.

The workshop and additional hardstand areas will facilitate these development projects, as well as new equipment builds for the growing number of machine orders in Western Australia. The additional office space will house the growing teams working on these industry-leading projects.

One can expect some of the work associated with integrating the zero emission power system technologies being developed by Fortescue Future Industries and Williams Advanced Engineering into Liebherr’s 240-t-class T 264 haul truck as part of an agreement with Fortescue Metals Group to be carried out at these expanded facilities.

Liebherr-Australia’s Regional Manager WA, Paul Hyham, says the company’s decarbonisation and technology focus has ramped up quickly over the past year.

“We’re building a really critical team here in Perth to support new technology development, which will employ everyone from engineers to on-site technicians,” he said. “We’re excited to be bringing across some of our best international talent, as well as recruiting talent locally, and upskilling our own workforce over the next 12 months. We currently have around 200 permanent employees here in Perth and we forecast an increase steadily over the next few years.”

This expansion will have significant impact on the Liebherr Mining business both locally and globally.

Hyham continued: “It’s exciting to have the forefront of this technology development and deployment right here in our backyard. Across the business there’s a feeling of excitement that we’re making real progress. Announcements like this facility expansion really show our employees, customers and our wider network that we’re on the cusp of meaningful change.”

Alongside this expansion, the Perth complex will continue to be the main mining facility for all services in Western Australia, and support its satellite network of branches in the state’s regional mining hubs including Newman and the recently-established branch in Kalgoorlie.

Conveyor Products and Solutions plans ‘highly automated’ facility in Perth

Bulk handling, Mining equipment, Mining services, , , ,

Conveyor Products and Solutions has announced its latest investment in a new state-of-the-art facility in Western Australia as part of its ongoing commitment to the local economy.

This new facility will house a number of innovative technologies and complement CPS’ existing operations, thereby strengthening its Australian manufacturing capability, the company said.

Present for the foundation pour was Director, Mike Einhorn, and CFO, Matt Einhorn, along with a contingency of local contractors keen to oversee this milestone.

CPS said its first manufacturing plant in Perth is highly automated, with a significant investment in custom-built equipment to process roller components safely, more quickly, and to a higher, more repeatable quality standard for quicker turnarounds and shorter lead times.

SGS adds Chrysos PhotonAssay services to Australian Minerals Regional Hub

Environmental, Metallurgy, Mineral exploration, Mining services, , , , , , ,

SGS says it is expanding its service delivery in obtaining Chrysos PhotonAssay™ technology as an alternative to traditional fire assay procedures.

The two companies – SGS and Chrysos – have reached an agreement to install a PhotonAssay unit at SGS’s Australian Minerals Regional Hub in Perth, Western Australia.

PhotonAssay provides enhanced analysis of gold, silver and complementary elements in as little as two minutes, improving turnaround time, SGS said.

“SGS is at the forefront of innovation excellence in the minerals and mining sectors with leading automation across FTIR, pXRF, NIR and now PhotonAssay, which will support mining and exploration customers with faster, safer and more environmentally friendly analysis,” SGS said.

Chrysos Corporation Chief Executive, Dirk Treasure, said: “Chrysos is excited to be working with the SGS team. The installation of this new PhotonAssay unit at their cutting-edge facility in Perth reflects the desire of both organisations to deliver unparalleled levels of customer service through faster, safer and more sustainable assaying technologies.”

Hitting samples with high-energy X-rays, Chrysos PhotonAssay causes excitation of atomic nuclei allowing rapid and enhanced analysis of gold, silver and complementary elements. Importantly, the non-destructive process allows large samples of up to 500 g to be measured and provides a “true” bulk reading independent of the chemical or physical form of the sample, the companies said. The technology is also measurably safer and more environmentally friendly than previous assay processes, aligning with SGS’s core principle of achieving a better, safer, and more interconnected world, SGS said.

Derick Govender, Executive Vice President, Natural Resources, SGS, said: “As the leading testing, inspection, and certification service provider to the mining industry globally, SGS continues to seek new, innovative and sustainable solutions to further enhance our services to our customers. In adopting Chrysos PhotonAssay technology at our Perth facility, SGS will continue to work on further deployments of this technology within our global network. Our team’s technical expertise and insight into our customer`s value chain end-to-end is one of our key advantages that allows us to develop innovative solutions.”

Chrysos Corp has already worked with MinAnalytical, MSALABS and Intertek on deploying PhotonAssay units at labs.