The project is supported by the Swedish Energy Agency and is being realized by a number of collaborating parties, such as Eitech and ABB for the electrical infrastructure, and Caterpillar and Pon Equipment for the truck conversion. ABB has been deeply involved in laying the groundwork for an all-electric mine concept and provides several solutions around electrification, automation and digitalization – three key elements that are transforming mining. Boliden is already partnering with ABB to develop automation in its mines to keep production running round-the-clock and improve safety.
Boliden and ABB have deployed unprecedented levels of automation and control, both below and above ground to optimize performance, building on their strong 90-year relationship. ABB has undertaken several projects at Boliden, including commissioning the first computerized mine hoist at its mine in Boliden and more recently, installing the System 800xA control solution at Aitik mine.
The electrification project at Aitik is significant, as demand for copper is expected to continue to rise, driven by increased production of electric vehicles and the widespread use of renewable energy. Increased productivity and safety, with the help of ABB solutions, will help Boliden meet the high demand for copper in a sustainable manner, perfectly in tune with ABB’s principle of running the world without consuming the earth.