ABB, the leading power and automation technology group, has won an order to provide four dual pinion high-speed ring-geared mill drive systems for the Swakop Uranium Husab mine, in the Erongo region in western-central Namibia.
The Husab greenfield project is expected to become the second largest uranium mine in the world, with production potential of 6,800 tons of uranium oxide per year. This amount surpasses the total current uranium production of Namibia, enabling the country to become the second largest uranium producer worldwide. The mineralization grade of the granite-hosted uranium at the Husab greenfield project is considered one of the world’s most significant mineral discoveries in decades.
The scope of supply comprises four variable-speed drive systems with asynchronous motors, ACS6000 frequency converters with mill application controller, transformers, medium voltage cubicles and system engineering and spare parts for two 6.75MW semiautogenous (SAG) mills, and two 4.25MW ball mills.
ABB’s variable-speed ring-geared mill drive (RMD) solutions are designed for reliable, long-life and low maintenance operation. The proven technology optimizes the grinding process, which makes it ideal for ores with varying grinding properties. In addition to high system efficiency, availability and process reliability, the variable-speed drive also provides significant energy and operating cost savings by using less electricity than a conventional fixed-speed mill drive.
The innovative energy-efficient RMD technology, combined with ABB’s extensive industry knowledge, grinding references and capability for fast-track delivery were significant factors for winning this order.
The contract was awarded in May 2013 with first deliveries scheduled for Q1, 2014.
The mine will be developed as large-scale conventional open-pit mine. With uranium reserves of more than 280 million tons it has an estimated life span of more than 20 years.
ABB is a leader in power and automation technologies that enable utility and industry customers to improve their performance while lowering environmental impact. The ABB Group of companies operates in around 100 countries and employs about 145,000 people.
Watch the ring-geared mill drive animation here: https://youtu.be/xJgOcEI2QI0
For help with any technical terms in this release, please go to: www.abb.com/glossary