Grupo México is the largest mining operator in Mexico and the third largest in the United States. The Santa Barbara site comprises four different mines and seven shafts, primarily extracting zinc, lead and copper, with gold and silver concentrates.
In August 2024, ABB was awarded a contract to upgrade two of the seven mine hoists at the site. This project was initiated following a lifecycle report conducted by ABB, which identified the two most critical hoists for site operations.
The hoists in question are two
friction hoists: one used for production and a cage hoist used for transporting people and materials. Both are old Asea friction hoists that have been in operation for more than 50 years. As part of the project, ABB’s team of hoisting experts will upgrade the electrical powertrain and control system, as well as the brake mechanics and hydraulics.
“Our mine hoists play a critical role in our mining operations, so ensuring they run efficiently and reliably is of utmost importance,” says César Corral, Hoist Superintendent at Grupo México. “The ABB team have been quick and agile in responding to our requirements and we have great confidence in working with them once more on this important project.”
ABB’s service team will work closely with the customer throughout the project and continue to offer support upon its completion. Once the upgrade is finished, the customer will benefit from more reliable operations and easier access to spare parts.
“We are proud to be awarded this project as it serves as a testament to our ability to meet customer demands and serve as a partner in complete mine hoist system projects, closing the loop with full valuable lifecycle services for our customer”, says David Palacios, Account Manager at ABB Process Industries. “We have collaborated with Grupo México on many projects over the years and are delighted to do so once more.”