Electronics, automation and robotics company ABB is partnering with zinc, copper and lead miner Nexa Resources in a digital transformation programme to modernise existing mining and smelting process installations in Brazil and Peru.

Aligned with Nexas directive automation and information master plan, ABB will install ABB Ability System 800xA as part of a five-year agreement. It is a powerful distributed control system automation platform.

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.

ABB automation and digital for mining, aluminium and cement global product line manager Marcos Hillal says 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.

As part of the journey, he says, ABB is providing Nexa with a thorough training and communications plan to support it through the transition.

In addition to automating existing sites, ABB will be responsible for the delivery of automation platforms at the Aripuan site the new Nexa expansion investment in Brazil.

The Aripuan project comprises the polymetallic extraction of zinc, lead and copper, and is located near the city of Aripuan, in the state of Mato Grosso, 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.

According to ABB, together, these solutions will make Aripuan one of the most modern operations in Brazil.

Go here to read the rest:

Mining Weekly Nexa Resources appoints ABB for automation systems - Creamer Media's Mining Weekly