🇸🇪 LKAB signs new technology partnership with ABB to shape the future of mining

ABB and LKAB have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to form a strategic technology partnership to shape the future of mining. The agreement establishes a framework for joint collaboration for the development in automation, electrification and digitalization with a focus on next-generation energy, production management and robotics solutions across the mining industry.

The partnership will focus on some of the biggest shifts in the mining industry’s journey to the all-electric, automated and digitalized mine, enhancing safety, sustainability and productivity. ABB and LKAB will explore advanced energy systems, from smarter power distribution and storage to battery-electric vehicle (BEV) charging and battery management. They will also investigate how production is optimized and managed across the value chain, including ventilation, milling and flotation.

The agreement also opens the door to collaboration on possible new developments in robotization, such as automated blast charging, as well as safer, more efficient hoisting solutions like hybrid ropes for deeper haulage. Representatives from LKAB and ABB will be part of a steering group to guide the collaboration.

“We are entering one of the most significant technology shifts in the history of mining. This partnership with ABB will help accelerate our transformation towards a more sustainable, secure and digitalized future,” said Jenny Greberg, VP of Technology, LKAB. “By combining our mining expertise with ABB’s technology leadership, we aim to set the industry blueprint for safety, efficiency and environmentally responsible performance.”

“Our latest research shows that 77 percent of mining leaders believe automation, electrification and digital technologies are vital for the sustainable transformation of mining, and they rely on trusted technology suppliers like ABB to co-create the solutions needed to meet today’s needs,” said Vedrana Spudic, Head of Technology for Mining, ABB’s Process Industries division. “This collaboration allows us to mature technologies in mining environments, ensuring that we deliver immediate and measurable value for our customers in terms of energy efficiency, productivity and safety.”

The partnership – led by Jan Moström, CEO of LKAB, Jenny Greberg, VP of Technology at LKAB, Vedrana Spudic, ABB’s Mining Head of Technology, and Peter Terwiesch, ABB’s President for Process Automation – highlights how collaboration between mining operators and technology providers can accelerate the transition towards a safer, more productive and less energy-intensive future.

With this MoU, ABB and LKAB signal a shared commitment to exploring long-term value creation and innovation in mining, fast-tracking technologies from pilot stage to large-scale deployment. The framework not only supports LKAB’s transformation but also sets a benchmark for more sustainable mining worldwide.

LKAB is an international mining and minerals group that offers iron ore, minerals and special products. We are committed to developing carbon-free processes by 2045, leading the transformation of the iron and steel industry. Since 1890 we have developed through unique innovations and technological solutions and are driven forward by more than 5,000 employees in 12 countries. In 2024, the LKAB group had sales of about SEK 33 billion. nlkab.com

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