ABB will install ABB Ability System 800xA, a Distributed Control System automation platform, at mining and smelting process installations in Brazil and Peru as part of a five-year agreement. The platform will be used to support all further technology upgrades, said ABB representatives.

"One of the main immediate gains will be employee safety as the modern automation platform allows remote monitoring and control. The platform also increases productivity by applying modern control techniques and creating value for the company and local community," said Marcos Hillal, global product line manager automation and digital for mining, aluminium and cement at ABB. 

ABB will be responsible for the delivery of automation platforms at the Aripuanã site, a new Nexa expansion investment in Brazil.

The Aripuanã project is a polymetallic extraction operation for zinc, lead and copper, located near the city of Aripuanã in the State of Mato Grosso in Brazil. The plant is a greenfield site at which Nexa is investing in operations infrastructure, engaging ABB from the start.

The scope includes a comprehensive automation platform, based on ABB Ability System 800xA, and equipped with ABB Ability MineOptimize solutions such as the Minerals Process Control Library, Power Control Library and camera connection.