ABB launches next-generation control system for mining hoists

The new ABB Ability NGX hoist control system is suitable for a wide range of hoist types, replacing both legacy and third party systems

ABB is pleased to announce the launch of the ABB Ability NGX hoist control system. The control system will help mining companies optimize the performance of their hoists and improve operational safety. In addition to the proven reliability of previous ABB hoist control systems, the system brings a new level of reliability, flexibility and ease of use to new build or retrofit projects. In addition, its standardized configuration helps large groups of companies to reduce costs and increase efficiency.

The ABB Ability NGX hoist control system, scheduled to be unveiled at Euro Mine Expo 2022 in Sweden in June, is designed to work with a wide range of hoists, and is also a perfect replacement for third-party control systems in upgrades and retrofitting projects. The NGX hoist operator station is designed in accordance with the latest ergonomic and human factors engineering guidelines and draws extensively on the latest developments in the field of Human Machine Interfaces (HMIs) for an innovative and intuitive interface.

ABB control system will help mining companies improve hoist operational performance and safety

The system can be easily integrated into other market-leading ABB technologies, such as the ABB Ability Safety Plus hoist safety solution, which was the first to be fully certified to SIL 3. taking safety to an unprecedented level, and was first commissioned on the world's largest friction hoist in 2019. It is also compatible with the ABB Ability Hoist Performance Optimization service. This advanced digital monitoring service continuously tracks hoist operational status and provides actionable Key Performance Indicator (KPI) information to improve uptime, availability, operational performance and efficiency, with remote online support from ABB experts at all times.

ABB Ability NGX hoist control system helps mine operators improve reliability, flexibility and user experience

“This new launch is another important milestone following the introduction of ABB Ability Safety Plus, which takes mine hoist reliability, performance optimization and safety protection to a whole new level,” said Oswald Deuchar, Global Product Line Manager for ABB Hoists. With the ABB Ability NGX hoist control system, mine operators get more flexibility, a better user experience, including 24/7 support, and the ability to manage and optimize equipment. By deploying the same control system across the entire mine site, operational costs can be further improved.”

“Safeguarding the health and safety of operators, whether they are our employees or those of our customers, is a top priority for ABB,” said Max Luedtke, Global Head and Vice President of Mining, Aluminum and Cement at ABB, ”The ABB Ability NGX hoist control system is the latest demonstration of this philosophy, and follows on from the ABB Ability Safety Plus hoist safety solution and autonomous solutions such as on-demand ventilation and digital services. They work closely together to improve the quality of the working environment and support remote monitoring and autonomous operations, ensuring that operators are kept out of hazardous areas.”

Euro Mine Expo 2022 will take place from Tuesday, June 14 to Thursday, June 16 at the Skellefte Kraft Arena in Skellefte, Sweden. ABB will be present at booth 188 in the Zink exhibition hall.

ABB has been involved in the mining industry for more than 130 years, and has always been at the forefront of electrification, automation and digitalization in the mining industry. As the only supplier of complete mining hoist systems, ABB offers a wide range of mining hoist solutions with low lifecycle costs, high system reliability and availability, fast project execution and one-stop system service and spare parts.