ABB Mine Hoists to Support Copper Extraction at New Eti Bakır Underground Mine

October 11, 2024

Global technology company ABB has signed a contract to deliver two mine hoists to Eti Bakır, Türkiye's largest copper producer, to support operations at a new underground copper mine in the Maden district of Elaziğ. This agreement marks ABB's first complete mine hoist installation in Türkiye.

The new mine, currently under development, is expected to be fully operational within the next three years. With the installation of ABB's mine hoists, scheduled for commissioning in late 2025, Eti Bakır aims to increase its total cathode copper production by nearly 30%, reaching approximately 90,000 tons. The hoists are equipped with efficient electrical drives and motors to minimize energy consumption, in line with Eti Bakır's commitment to sustainable mining practices.

Copper plays a crucial role in clean energy technologies, such as wind turbines, electric vehicles, and battery storage. The International Energy Agency forecasts that mineral demand from clean energy technologies could double by 2040, underscoring the need for efficient and sustainable mineral extraction. This project contributes to the global shift towards more environmentally friendly mining operations, helping meet the rising demand for critical minerals.

ABB will provide both a production hoist and an auxiliary hoist for the mine. The package will include mechanical and electrical equipment, such as a double drum and a single drum hoist, as well as head sheaves and arrestors. These hoists are expected to enhance productivity, improve efficiency, and increase operator safety at the mine.

Yılmaz Şara, Investment Manager at Eti Bakır, emphasized the importance of the collaboration with ABB: "The installation of these hoist solutions will help us enhance copper production while maintaining high standards of reliability and productivity in our operations. This partnership is crucial for the sustainable extraction of essential minerals."

Per Lärk, Local Business Line Manager for Hoisting at ABB, noted that the project represents a significant milestone for ABB's mine hoist systems: "This is our first complete installation in Türkiye, and it marks an important step towards achieving more efficient and sustainable mining operations. We are committed to working closely with Eti Bakır to develop tailored solutions that prioritize safety, efficiency, and sustainability."

ABB's mine hoists are known for their high equipment availability and reliability, which is essential for ensuring the continuous operation of mining facilities. With more than 130 years of experience in the mining sector, ABB continues to innovate solutions that contribute to the future of sustainable mining without compromising productivity.

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