Power and automation technology group ABB in August launched a new service product for hoist systems, known as the hoist performance monitoring service, which delivers a service that is unique in the underground mining market, as it can monitor and analyse the hoist system remotely, ensur-ing that possible failures are detected before causing serious problems.

A mine hoist system is a huge invest- ment for mining companies and an important component in the underground mining process. As such, hoist systems must operate at the highest level of reliability and safety, as any potential failure can lead to catas- trophic results, such as injury or death to underground mining personnel.

ABB’s hoist performance monitoring ser- vice connects customers’ hoist systems to experienced ABB experts who monitor and analyse the hoist’s condition and perfor-mance. The new service links hardware moni-toring with secure, remote access options and expert software.

It contains two solutions to maintain hoist performance. Firstly, hoist service experts provide a scheduled quarterly analysis of collected data against established key performance indicators, including that hoist systems meet the correct load capacities. By using remote sessions with ABB engi-neers, corrective action can be implemented. After every analysis, the customer also receives an associated report.

ABB offers a continuous asset monitoring solution over extended periods of time. If a monitored hoist system shows abnormal conditions, pre-established triggers alert the customer immediately. ABB proactively investigates the source of the alarm and provides customers with recom- mendations to restore process performance.

Powered by ABB’s service delivery platform, ServicePort, the hoist performance monitor-ing service uses continuous data collection and analysis to transform raw data into actionable information, quickly pinpointing issues and allowing hoist operators to ensure the best performance of equipment and systems. ServicePort enables retrieval of information from numerous operational points, including the hoist’s motor, hydraulics and brakes, and helps to diagnose and identify root problems.

With the hoist performance monitoring ser- vice, ABB is able to better maintain hoist sys- tems, as it allows site engineers to contin-uously collaborate with ABB experts when-ever support is needed.

ABB Group of companies operates in around 100 countries and employs about 145 000 people.