The companies will jointly assess solutions for mining companies that will de-risk their operations and lower operating costs while reducing emissions, energy use and waste. FLSmidth offers market-leading products, service and digital solutions for mining from the pit to the plant and provides a deep knowledge of mineral processing. ABB complements this with state-of-the-art automation, electrification, digital solutions and advanced services from the mine to the port.
The agreement was formalised at the FT Mining Summit in London, where the companies' leaders shared the stage for ‘The Mine of the Future' panel alongside major mining operators.
Further discussions and planning will take place between the teams of global experts over the coming months. They will explore the potential of using energy efficient solutions to address power and energy management, as well as integrating renewable sources of energy and digital capabilities to improve operational efficiency and the availability of assets.
"Driving collaboration within the mining industry is increasingly important and timely if the industry is to achieve its targets in line with their own expectations, those of society and as set out in agreements like the UN Paris Agreement; the faster solutions happen, the better," Joachim Braun, division president, ABB Process Industries, said. "ABB and FLSmidth have chosen to collaborate at this key time. If we can combine state-of-the-art equipment with digital solutions, we can better help customers achieve their business goals and carbon-free operations. Greater collaboration is key as it means fewer interfaces, reduced risk and shortened project schedules."
"FLSmidth and ABB already have many of the building blocks for carbon-free, resource-optimised operations. By assessing how to combine and integrate these technologies and our respective expertise we will, together with our customers, accelerate transition in mining operations," Mikko Keto, Group CEO, FLSmidth, said. "Mining is essential in the energy transition. Meanwhile, the mining industry is facing unprecedented challenges due to declining ore grade and high demand as it develops new sites, while also being asked to make existing operations more sustainable. Modern technology, expert analysis and digital solutions will help lower water and energy use and reduce waste - and FLSmidth and ABB can really move the needle in this area."
