ABB to Implement Gearless Mill Drive Service Program at Codelco Copper Mines in Chile
Strengthening Industrial Automation in Chilean Copper Production
ABB has partnered with Codelco to optimize the maintenance of its critical gearless mill drive (GMD) systems. This long-term service agreement (LTSA) combines maintenance, remote diagnostics, and skills training. Integrated into ABB’s cloud-based platform, GMD Connect, the program aims to support a combined copper output of approximately 400,000 metric tons per year.
Centralized Lifecycle Management for Multiple Sites
The LTSA covers four key GMD systems: three at Ministro Hales mine in the Antofagasta region and one at Andina mine in Valparaíso. Despite the mines being over 1,500 km apart and differing in design, ABB centralizes service management. This ensures consistent maintenance quality, improved operational efficiency, and enhanced asset availability across all sites.
Gearless Mill Drives: Key to Energy-Efficient Operations
GMDs eliminate traditional mechanical drivetrain components, running some of the world’s largest grinding mills. By reducing mechanical friction, these drives lower energy consumption and emissions while maintaining high reliability. In the context of growing copper demand, sustaining GMD performance is crucial for uninterrupted production.
Driving Sustainability and Technological Innovation
ABB’s services help Codelco meet sustainability objectives. By continuously evolving technology solutions and monitoring performance, the company maximizes uptime while minimizing unplanned downtime. Moreover, integrating advanced industrial automation tools such as PLCs, DCS, and remote monitoring ensures optimal control of mill operations.
Expertise and Long-Term Collaboration
Francisco Herrera, ABB Chile’s Process Industries Service Manager, stated that the company’s partnership with Codelco spans over a decade. He emphasized that ongoing collaboration and technology integration are essential to meet increasing copper production demands efficiently and sustainably. This demonstrates ABB’s authority and expertise in industrial automation for large-scale mining operations.
Future-Proofing Mining Operations
As the world transitions toward electrification and decarbonization, reliable GMD systems are essential for producing critical minerals sustainably. ABB’s industrial automation solutions enable precise control, improved reliability, and reduced environmental impact. By adopting these technologies, mining operators can ensure long-term productivity and compliance with global sustainability standards.
Application Insights: Enhancing Industrial Automation
In practice, integrating GMD Connect with advanced PLC and DCS platforms allows real-time monitoring of mill drives. Predictive maintenance and remote diagnostics reduce downtime and operational risks. For example, engineers can remotely detect performance deviations, schedule maintenance proactively, and train staff efficiently—boosting overall plant reliability and operational excellence.
