ABB and Codelco, Chile’s state-owned copper mining giant, have inked a long-term service agreement (LTSA) to optimise maintenance programmes at two of the company’s key mining sites. This collaboration, which includes maintenance, remote diagnostics, and skills training, aims to enhance the performance of Codelco’s gearless mill drive (GMD) systems, critical components in copper production. The agreement underscores a shared commitment to operational efficiency, sustainability, and innovation in the mining sector.
The LTSA covers four GMD systems—three at Ministro Hales mine in the Antofagasta region and one at Andina mine in Valparaíso region—spanning over 1,500 km. Despite their geographical and operational differences, this contract unifies them under a centralised service management framework. ABB’s advanced cloud-based platform, GMD Connect, will play a pivotal role in this integration, supporting a combined copper production of approximately 400,000 tonnes per year (tpy).
Francisco Herrera, Service Manager for Chile at ABB’s Process Industries division, highlighted the significance of this partnership. “Our collaboration with Codelco has lasted more than a decade. With demand for copper production set to increase, this latest contract award enables us to build on that partnership through expertise and technologies for looking after proprietary GMD systems,” he said. Herrera emphasised the mutual commitment to integrating innovative solutions within Chilean mining operations, crucial for meeting production targets efficiently and sustainably.
GMDs are becoming increasingly vital in copper mining, ensuring efficient ore grinding while minimising energy consumption and emissions. As global copper demand is expected to surge over the next decade, maintaining the reliability of these systems is essential to meeting market needs. This agreement aligns with Codelco’s goal to maximise uptime, enhance asset availability, and avoid unscheduled downtime, thereby sustaining productivity.
The partnership also supports broader sustainability goals. ABB’s GMDs eliminate mechanical drivetrain components, delivering more efficient, reliable operations with lower emissions. This is particularly relevant as the world transitions towards electrification and decarbonisation, driving demand for critical minerals and metals. By optimising the output of these resources, the mining sector can play a pivotal role in supporting a low-carbon future.
The collaboration between ABB and Codelco sets a precedent for how mining companies can leverage advanced technologies to enhance operational efficiency and sustainability. As the sector faces increasing pressure to meet growing demand while minimising environmental impact, such partnerships will be crucial in shaping the future of mining. This agreement not only strengthens the relationship between ABB and Codelco but also underscores the importance of innovation and collaboration in driving the mining industry forward.
The implications of this agreement extend beyond Chile. As the world’s largest copper producer, Chile’s mining practices and technological advancements have a global ripple effect. The integration of ABB’s GMD Connect platform and the centralised management of GMD systems could inspire similar initiatives in other mining regions, fostering a more interconnected and efficient global mining industry.
Moreover, the focus on skills training and remote diagnostics highlights a shift towards a more technologically adept workforce. As mining operations become increasingly complex, the need for skilled personnel capable of managing advanced systems will grow. This agreement could serve as a model for other mining companies looking to invest in their workforce while enhancing operational capabilities.
In conclusion, the ABB-Codelco partnership is a testament to the power of collaboration and innovation in the mining sector. By optimising GMD systems and integrating advanced technologies, the two companies are not only boosting copper production but also setting a new standard for sustainability and efficiency in mining operations. As the world grapples with the challenges of decarbonisation and electrification, such initiatives will be instrumental in meeting the demands of a rapidly evolving global landscape.