The two companies will share knowledge and collaborate in bringing solutions to the mining industry, with the aim of reducing the greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions related to heavy machinery. As part of their collaboration, the two companies may explore possible technologies for high power and automated charging and connector systems to facilitate the adoption of BEVs in industries such as mining.
ABB noted that mining companies require solutions that are specifically designed for heavy industries to meet demanding requirements such as high power, automated and safe operation, ruggedised designs fit for harsh environmental conditions and approved standards.
MEDATech provides efficient drive train technology to OEMs and end users, as well as consulting and developing optimisation tools to realise the efficient and cost-effective implementation of electric fleets.
The company's 100% electric mining haul truck, the Western Star 4900XD, accepts a charge power of 600kW which gives it ultra-fast charging capability. With ABB's charging capability, it is possible to achieve charging times of under 15 minutes by matching the charging cycles to the production. Fast charging is a critical part of battery-electric technology viability for industrial fleets, which operate 24 hour a day, seven days a week.
MEDATech has just launched its Electric Vehicle Fleet Optimization Software (EV-FOS), and will showcase it at MINExpo 2021 in Las Vegas, US next week.
Rob Rennie, founder and president of MEDATech, said: "We are very excited to be working with ABB in this new and dynamic field of electric vehicles and will bring our advanced drive train technology to the forefront alongside ABB's advanced charging technology. Collaborating to accelerate the adoption to emission-free transport systems enabling cleaner operations is truly at the heart of our company."
ABB stated that its collaboration with MEDATech is the latest in a series it is developing to accelerate the transition to all-electric mines with other OEMs and technology innovators.
Mehrzad Ashnagaran, global product line manager, electrification & composite plant at ABB, said: "Within the ABB Ability eMine framework, ABB is increasingly working with OEMs and technology innovators to fast-track the development of new emissions-reducing systems through the electrification and automation of the whole mining operation. Strategic collaborations, such as with MEDATech, provide solutions that support responsible mining operations. The aim of our combined solutions is to enhance the efficiency and flexibility of customer businesses, contribute to the reduction of CO₂ and the realisation of a sustainable society."
Nic Beutler, global product manager, power system & charging solutions at ABB, added: "The mining sector has set clear and ambitious targets to decarbonise operations for a more sustainable future. To meet or even exceed productivity targets while not compromising on safety, new thinking and technological solutions are required. ABB and MEDATech are an ideal match for exploring the steps needed to reach net zero emissions for heavy-duty industrial machinery."
Earlier this week, ABB launched ABB Ability eMine, a new purposeful portfolio of electrification technologies designed to accelerate the decarbonisation of the mining sector.
