ABB and Komatsu Commit To Decarbonizing Mining Operations

Komatsu and automation specialist ABB announced their signing of a strategic collaboration agreement focused on providing electrified solutions, targeting diesel-guzzling mobile mining machinery, and integrating energy management systems to help decarbonize the mining sector. Komatsu manufactures smart, heavy-duty construction, forestry, military, and mining equipment.

ABB and Komatsu have signed an agreement to combine industry expertise and technological insights to fashion electrified solutions that will help decarbonize the mining industry. Image used courtesy of ABB 

Decarbonizing the Mining Industry  

The mining sector accounts for 1.9 and 5.1 gigatons of carbon dioxide (CO2) equivalent greenhouse gas emissions yearly. According to Global Data, the metal and mining industry produces between 4 to 7% of global GHG emissions, mostly derived from fuel use (such as electricity used on site, CO2, and methane). 

On October 21st, 2021, members of the International Council on Mining and Metals (ICMM) consolidated their commitment to reaching net zero scope 1 and 2 GHG emissions by 2050 or earlier. Direct GHG emissions are usually derived from assets or practices that an organization owns or controls, including transportation vehicles or burning fuel on-site, and are referred to as scope 1 emissions. Conversely, scope 2 emissions are indirect GHG emissions that result from purchasing and using energy. Emissions can arise from heating and cooling buildings and generating steam. 

Businesses employ scope 1 and 2 objectives to help mitigate risks related to changing regulations and government demand for eco-friendly practices and to meet stakeholder expectations and show corporate responsibility. These objectives can also help businesses reduce their energy costs while increasing the efficiency of their operations.  

Companies seek to decarbonize mining operations to meet government regulations and make operations more efficient. Image used courtesy of ABB

ABB and Komatsu 

Both ABB and Komatsu are working together to alleviate the mining industry’s decarbonization woes, focusing on the electrification of mobile mining equipment and the inclusion of energy management systems. 

The idea is to remove the dependency on diesel-intensive machinery and seek alternative carbon-free, green solutions that mitigate environmental impact while helping mining businesses achieve their net-zero ambitions in line with the requirements of the Paris Agreement.

To kick off the partnership, Komatsu will showcase ABB’s Robot Automated Connection Device (ACD) at MINExpo 2024. The interoperable ACD will be integrated with ABB’s eMine FastCharge solution for use with future electric vehicles (EVs) used in mining operations.

A demonstration showcasing the features and potential capabilities of the fully automated ABB eMine Fast Charge solution for mining EVs. Video used courtesy of ABB 

Electrification of Mining Equipment

ABB's eMine Fast Charge system is designed to provide mining companies with fast charging of mining vehicles and energy usage tracking. The fully automated solution uses vehicle recognition and camera-aided positioning to enhance user safety during the charging process. Human users do not need to manually operate the system, saving time and avoiding unnecessary hazards. An on-site battery charging station that can provide a rapid charging cycle means less battery weight is needed on stand-by, saving on weight, resources, and material costs. 

The eMine FastCharge solution features a modular design, allowing for deconstruction and relocation to suit mining operation requirements. The solution provides high power for charging in line with the current market offering and can cater to higher power for future EV innovations.