The new Performance Optimization service features a built-in connection between a customer's mine hoists and ABB experts located remotely in the company's Collaborative Operations Centers.

Because the monitoring of the hoists is continuous, potential issues can be identified. This allows for quick action to rectify any problems, leading to safer operations and increase machine availability.

"What we have done is create a cyber-secure bridge between the information technology (IT) and operational technology (OT) elements of our mine hoist customers' businesses," global service manager hoisting Bengt Hedlund said.

"This is how we are progressing across our customer base and it is creating more connected infrastructure, more collaborative relationships and greater transparency in terms of real-time data reporting and actions." 

Featuring remote support for underground operators, the solution will be hosted on the ABB Ability Edgenius Dashboard application.

"Predictive analysis of a mine hoist's condition prevents operations from unexpected, time-consuming and costly shutdowns," the company said.

"Using ABB Ability Performance Optimization for hoists, ABB's mining customers can work towards condition-based monitoring. Data is automatically collected, segregated and managed, then securely monitored and analyzed to generate actionable insights that can increase production performance, identify safety hazards, and provide optimized maintenance scheduling."

The announcement comes just a week after ABB's confirmation of the release of the ABB Ability Safety Plus for hoists, which is a suite of mine hoist safety products that focus on personnel and equipment safety.

The products include Safety Plus Hoist Monitor (SPHM), Safety Plus Hoist Protector (SPHP) and Safety Plus Brake System (SPBS) including Safety Brake Hydraulics (SBH).