In context
In late 2023, underground mining still relied on manual processes for charging blasting holes, exposing workers to risks near unsupported rock faces. Automation was advancing in mining, but this task remained a challenge due to its complexity and safety requirements.
What was reported
ABB announced successful completion of testing for its industry-first automated robot charging technology, developed with mine operators Boliden and LKAB. The system, called ABB Robot Charger, automatically detects boreholes and fills them with explosives without human presence, eliminating the need for workers near the rock face during blasting.
The testing phase validated integration with a carrier vehicle, communication with bulk emulsion and vision systems, and the addition of a second robot arm to assemble primer and detonator. The system ensures full reach to all borehole levels and areas, with remote control for operators.
Trials were conducted at Boliden Garpenberg, the world’s most productive underground zinc mine. ABB is now entering the final development stage to execute the full blasting sequence with control handed over to the customer, and is discussing co-development with other mine operators to test in different environments.
Why it mattered
This development marked a significant step toward automating one of the last manual, high-risk tasks in mining. By removing humans from blasting areas, the technology could improve safety and support ESG commitments, potentially setting a new standard for underground mine operations globally.
“The robot locates the drilled holes on the rock face using a vision system, and these recent tests show all can be reached and charged with the cycle fully automated.”
Source: Robotics & Automation News (roboticsandautomationnews.com) · Published 2023-10-30 · “ABB completes testing of robotic system for inserting charges in boreholes in mines”