Can you describe some recent highlights of ABB’s operations?

For today's mining companies, the main objective is to improve the safety and efficiency of their production processes and minimize the number of people on site.

In recent years, we have worked on essential mining projects, such as Quebrada Blanca 2 and Gold Fields, supplying all the electrification and automation for their mining operations. In the case of Quebrada Blanca 2, a deposit that recently produced its first copper production, we implemented a remote operation 1,700 km away with a fiber optic connection and supplied 6 GMD (Gearless Mill Drive) mills. In addition, we implemented remote monitoring via LTE technology with a satellite link at the GoldFields’ project. We also support Albemarle's lithium production with our technology. ABB is a diversified company with technological offers for copper, gold, and lithium plants.

What are the main technological trends in the mining industry?

The most important trend in recent years has been operations centers. The implementation of those centers has accelerated with the pandemic. Tools such as satellite communication technologies, fiber optics, and 5G have helped to implement remote work on a massive scale. The main mining clients, including Teck, are already operating remotely.

Another notable trend in the industry is digitization, the use of digital twins, data collection, and mathematical modeling. These tools are used to simulate processes, predict production after a change in the production process, and train personnel before the plant is in operation. These technologies help projects minimize control logic errors and improve start-up times.

How can ABB improve the productivity of mining operations?

ABB contributes to energy efficiency by producing monitoring solutions for high-performance equipment. For example, for an engine, we use sensors that provide early warning of potential failures that could lead to catastrophic results during the production process. On the other hand, we also offer service contracts to keep ABB equipment in optimum condition with high manufacturing standards. Our maintenance service has a significant impact on the performance of the equipment and its useful life.

How do you support your clients' decarbonization efforts?

The need for companies to reduce their CO2 emissions has driven increased demand for decarbonization solutions. We are accompanying clients on their path to decarbonization, working on solutions that allow them to reduce their emissions. One highlight is our ABB eMine Trolley System, a solution that enables the transition of mining trucks from diesel to electric, significantly reducing energy costs and environmental impact. This has other advantages since the electric trucks work at a higher speed, decreasing the equipment required to move ore in the mine.

What are the main consequences of the switch to underground mining for ABB?

In the shift from open pit mining to underground mining, it is essential to use new technologies that adapt to these new challenges. At ABB, we have developed electric conveyor belts that can transport a large amount of material in a short time. Another need in underground mining is to ensure high air quality for the people who work inside the mine. In this sense, we have developed software that optimizes the airflow by controlling the ventilation in an efficient way based on the needs of the mine (Ventilation on Demand, VOD). This software dramatically reduces production costs and increases the energy efficiency of mine ventilation.

What are ABB's main goals for 2023?

The main objective is to continue growing with our clients and import technological developments from our centers of excellence to Chile. We also seek to continue working with universities and research centers to develop new technologies that meet the specific needs of our Chilean clients.

Finally, a central pillar of the company is creating a healthy work-life balance for all of its employees. As a result, we are proud to have recently been awarded first place in the Life and Work Balance category.