Global technology leader ABB has signed a contract to supply mine hoists to Eti Bakir A.S., Turkey’s largest copper producer, as part of a collaborative effort to support the mining industry’s sustainable transformation. The agreement involves ABB providing two hoists for the new underground copper mine.
Located in the Maden district of Elazig, the mine is currently under development and is expected to be fully operational within the next three years. With the opening of this new facility, Eti Bakir A.S. anticipates a nearly 30% increase in total cathode production, bringing the total to 90,000 tonnes. ABB’s mine hoists, scheduled for commissioning in the fourth quarter of 2025, will incorporate one of the most efficient and reliable electrical drives and motors available to minimize energy consumption.
Copper plays a critical role in clean energy technologies such as wind turbines, electric vehicles, and battery storage, highlighting its significance in the global energy transition. According to the International Energy Agency (IEA), demand for minerals from clean energy technologies is projected to double by 2040 in the Stated Policies Scenario (STEPS) and quadruple in the Sustainable Development Scenario (SDS). This anticipated surge in demand underscores the need for the mining industry to implement more sustainable practices for cleaner production.
As a complete supplier of mine hoist systems, ABB will deliver a comprehensive range of hoisting services. This will include both a production hoist and an auxiliary hoist, comprising mechanical and electrical equipment for one double drum and one single drum hoist, along with head sheaves and arrestors. The reliability of these hoists is expected to enhance operational productivity, ensuring increased efficiency and improved safety for operators. This agreement marks ABB’s first complete mine hoist installation in Turkey.
The installation of these complete mine hoist solutions will not only boost copper production but also facilitate the extraction of other critical minerals, as noted by Yilmaz Sara, Investment Manager at Eti Bakir A.S. The collaboration with ABB emphasizes the importance of maintaining high standards of reliability and productivity in mining operations, which significantly contributes to the extraction of essential resources.
This project represents a key milestone for ABB’s mine hoist systems as their first complete installation in Turkey. With the growing adoption of these vital systems, the mining industry is moving closer to achieving more efficient and sustainable operations. Per Lärk, Local Business Line Manager for Hoisting at ABB, expressed enthusiasm about the expanding range of mine hoist solutions, looking forward to working closely with Eti Bakir A.S. to develop tailored services that promote safety and efficiency while supporting sustainable energy objectives.
