ABB & EcoHoist to collaborate on mine hoisting technology
23 April 2024ABB and EcoHoist have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to collaborate on the development of a vertical material transport solution for underground mines.
The solution combines EcoHoist's technology with ABB’s technical capability and experience in vertical ore haulage in mining.
The EcoHoist aims to improve on traditional vertical hoisting systems, by substantially reducing the size of the required mine shafts.
This reduction in mine shaft size leads to a reduction in capital cost and construction time compared to skip hoist systems.
The EcoHoist operates on electricity and provides the opportunity for mines using conventional diesel-powered load and haul fleets to simultaneously cut production costs and decarbonise.
The collaboration will see experts from both companies contributing to solutions for the future of underground ore haulage systems and provides opportunities for further commercial arrangements.
ABB has a strong reputation for delivering robust solutions for the mining industry, and EcoHoist hopes this collaboration will accelerate the adoption and deployment of the EcoHoist pilot.
“The mining industry globally is poised for a sustainability step-change and ABB is excited to work with EcoHoist in support of new technologies in this journey,” said Björn Jonsson, global business line manager, Hoisting, ABB.
Aaron Trueman, Australian Business Line Manager for Hoisting, ABB, added, “No matter the mine in Australia, the challenge is how to get ore out of the ground safely and efficiently with high availability in very remote locations.
"Hoists are a critical mine asset to achieve this, and novel approaches to ore haulage such as EcoHoist are what the industry needs to deliver minerals essential to modern technology.”
Michael Short, business development engineer, EcoHoist, added: “EcoHoist offers an opportunity for mining leaders interested in integrating a low-cost solution into their operation. We are now in early conversations with interested mining companies for collaboration projects to trial this innovative technology, aiming to increase production rates while reducing both operating costs and carbon footprint.”
