• ABB claimed the highest accolade at the 2024 Euromines Safety Awards in Brussels for its cutting-edge automated robotic solution designed to enhance safety in blasting operations.
• The company’s robotic loader and charger system, developed in collaboration with Swedish mining firms Boliden and LKAB, and explosive suppliers Forcit and LKAB Kimit, eliminates the need for manual handling in high-risk blasting zones, significantly improving worker safety.

Recognized for its exceptional dedication to health and safety in mining, ABB was awarded the 2024 Euromines Safety Award at the Brussels ceremony on October 2, 2024. This prestigious award was granted for ABB’s innovative technology demonstrator – a fully automated robotic loader and charger for remote blasting in underground mines, created in partnership with Boliden, LKAB, Forcit, and LKAB Kimit.

The second edition of the annual awards, organized by the European Association of Mining Industries, Metal Ores, and Industrial Minerals (Euromines), saw strong competition, with entries submitted from across the globe. Of the 12 finalists, three were awarded top prizes, with ABB taking the gold.

The robotic loader and charger developed by ABB aims to automate one of the last remaining manual tasks in mining: the charging of blast holes. In large-scale mining operations, this task can be repeated up to 15 times a day as chambers are expanded for resource extraction. The technology uses automation to identify boreholes and load them with explosives, eliminating the need for workers to be present in hazardous areas near the unsupported rock face during blasting.

The system features an ABB industrial robotic arm mounted on a mobile platform, equipped with integrated bulk emulsion and vision systems. A second robotic arm handles the assembly of the primer and detonator, providing a fully automated solution capable of reaching all borehole levels and areas of the rock face. The system can also be operated remotely, ensuring that workers are kept out of harm’s way.

“ABB’s commitment to ensuring a safe working environment is a great contribution to the mining sector, and we applaud the team for their continuous efforts,” commented Rolf Kuby, Director General of Euromines. “We extend our gratitude to all participants and look forward to further enhancing mining safety through the adoption of innovative technologies and best practices.”

“While productivity and sustainability are vital to advancing the mining industry, safety remains the top priority,” said Max Luedtke, Business Line Manager for Mining at ABB Process Industries. “At ABB, we believe that true progress in safety comes through the application of engineering and industry-specific technologies. Being recognized for our automated robotic loader and charger is a tremendous honor, and we want to extend our thanks to our partners – Boliden, LKAB, Forcit, and LKAB Kimit – for making this vision a reality.”

The Euromines Safety Awards celebrate contributions to health and safety within the European mining sector. An independent panel of experts from EU institutions evaluates the entries based on innovation, impact, practicality, and financial viability.

ABB became a member of Euromines in December 2023. Euromines operates as a collaborative network promoting responsible mining practices. It also monitors and responds to the impact of European and international legislation on the industry, while defining policy positions. Euromines represents a wide range of large and small mining companies across Europe and beyond, and is committed to fostering knowledge-sharing on key topics such as the circular economy, decarbonization, and nature restoration. The association also serves as a bridge between the mining industry and European authorities, as well as international bodies.

ABB’s Process Automation division specializes in automating, electrifying, and digitalizing industrial processes to meet essential global needs, from energy and water supply to production and logistics. With approximately 20,000 employees, ABB Process Automation leverages its technology and expertise to improve operational performance and safety across a range of industries, helping create a more sustainable and resource-efficient future.

ABB is a global leader in electrification and automation, driving innovation and efficiency for a more sustainable world. With a workforce of over 105,000 employees and a legacy spanning more than 140 years, ABB continues to push the boundaries of industrial transformation.

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