Nordic Iron Ore appoints ABB to provide automation and electrification planning for Blötberget mine in Sweden
Nordic Iron Ore has appointed ABB to scope process control and management systems for a future-proof and fully-digitalized mining operation at the Blötberget iron ore mine.
Global technology company ABB has provided mine design consultancy and recommended scope of supply for the opening of the old Blötberget mine near Ludvika in the Dalarna region of Sweden.
– Mining and the support industries are a significant part of the Swedish economy, with some of the most advanced and efficient mining operations anywhere in the world, said Lennart Eliasson, Managing Director of Nordic Iron Ore.
– There are many challenges when opening a new mine. We want to draw on the strong technical knowledge that exists in Sweden to open a mine with low environmental impact and footprint and that is also competitive and safe. The early involvement from ABB, which has a track record of working with innovative mines in Sweden, ensures that the construction, design, and planning for the development of the mine can take a significant step forward and with improved costs and benefits forecast accuracy.
– ABB can provide assistance at an early stage in mine development for electrification and automation and routinely collaborates with mining companies from initial feasibility studies through to full deployment, said Björn Jonsson, Hub Manager, Process Industries, ABB.
– Swedish mines are already benefiting from ABB solutions, using ABB Ability™ System 800xA distributed control system and the integrated ABB Ability™ Ventilation Optimizer.
ABB’s recommendation addresses automation, digital, and electrification for long-term, safe, sustainable, and efficient mining operations at the site. ABB analyzed a Detailed Feasibility Study by Nordic Iron Ore and made significant advancements on the definitions and scope of supply of the automation and electrification aspects of the mine. ABB also looked at electrical infrastructure requirements for the Blötberget mine, including surface and underground containers, switchgears, and transformers.