Technology leader ABB has been selected to partner with Nexa Resources in an ambitious digital transformation program in Latin America. The first step will be the modernization of existing mining and smelting process installations in Brazil and Peru, which will form the foundation of digitalized and cost-effective operations
Nexa Resources has appointed ABB to provide state-of-the-art industrial automation systems for existing and new operations in Brazil and Peru 
ABB to provide Nexa Resources with a comprehensive automation platform, equipped with ABB Ability™ MineOptimize solutions such as the Minerals Process Control Library 
ABB Ability™ MineOptimize connects and optimizes all stages in the lifecycle of any open pit or underground mine and will make Aripuanã one of the most modern operations in Brazil
Aligned with Nexa’s Directive Automation and Information Master Plan, ABB will install ABB Ability™ System 800xA as part of a five-year agreement. It is the most powerful Distributed Control System (DCS) automation platform in the market and is ranked by ARC advisory group as the world’s #1 over the last 20 years. This technology is the basis for the digital transformation and will serve as a common operations platform to support all technology upgrades as the plants evolve into digital mines of the future.
“One of the main immediate gains will be employee safety as the modern automation platform allows remote monitoring and control. The platform also increases productivity by applying modern control techniques and creating value for the company and local community,” said Marcos Hillal, Global Product Line Manager Automation & Digital for Mining, Aluminium and Cement at ABB.
“As part of the journey, we are providing Nexa with a thorough training and communications plan to support them through the transition.”
In addition to automating existing sites, ABB will be responsible for the delivery of automation platforms at the Aripuanã site, the new Nexa expansion investment in Brazil.
The Aripuanã project is a polymetallic extraction of zinc, lead and copper, located near the city of Aripuanã in the State of Mato Grosso in Brazil. The plant is a greenfield site in which Nexa is investing in operations infrastructure, engaging ABB from the start. There, ABB will deliver automation solutions that result in high levels of productivity, safety and cost savings.
The scope includes a comprehensive automation platform, based on ABB Ability™ System 800xA, and equipped with ABB Ability™ MineOptimize solutions such as the Minerals Process Control Library, Power Control Library and camera connection. Together, these will make Aripuanã one of the most modern operations in Brazil.
About Nexa
Nexa Resources is one of the world’s largest producers of zinc, and also produces copper and lead. It has over 60 years of experience in the mining and metallurgy segments, with operations located in Brazil and Peru and offices in Luxembourg and the United States, supplying its products to every continent on the planet. It has more than 5,000 employees who work every day focused on building the future of mining, in order to be increasingly sustainable and innovative, with the best safety practices and respect for people and the environment. Since 2017, its shares of stock have been traded on the New York and Toronto Stock Exchanges, and its majority shareholder is Votorantim S.A. For more information, visit www.nexaresources.com
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ABB (ABBN: SIX Swiss Ex) is a leading global technology company that energizes the transformation of society and industry to achieve a more productive, sustainable future. By connecting software to its electrification, robotics, automation and motion portfolio, ABB pushes the boundaries of technology to drive performance to new levels. With a history of excellence stretching back more than 130 years, ABB’s success is driven by about 110,000 talented employees in over 100 countries. www.abb.com
