BHP has entered into a global framework agreement with Wuxi BOTON Technology to collaborate on the development of sustainable conveyor systems for mining operations.
Signed last month at BOTON’s Innovation Centre in Wuxi, China, the agreement extends the ongoing relationship between the two companies.
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Under the new terms, the collaboration will move beyond the supply of products to also cover joint technology initiatives, life cycle services, sustainability projects and expanded global support.
BHP and BOTON plan to jointly develop technologies aimed at advancing automation in conveyor operations.
This work will build on previous projects at BHP’s Escondida copper mine and will investigate the introduction of intelligent systems such as longitudinal rip detection, digital X-ray scanning, AI-based belt alignment and robotic inspection tools.
BHP chief commercial officer Rag Udd said: “This agreement taps the strength of our long-standing partnership with BOTON and our shared focus on innovation, safety and sustainability.
“By working more closely together, we are advancing the next generation of mining conveyor solutions to improve productivity, support our decarbonisation ambitions and deliver long-term value across our global operations.”
The two companies also intend to address environmental concerns by considering the introduction of a Supply Chain Partner Programme.
This initiative would involve creating a comprehensive system to monitor the carbon footprint throughout the entire life cycle of mining operations, from the sourcing of raw materials and manufacturing processes to operations and the eventual recycling of conveyor belts.
The collaboration will look at improving methods for tracking and managing emissions, as well as developing new recycling solutions to increase circularity and help lessen environmental impacts.
BOTON is expected to strengthen its service operations in BHP’s core mining markets by making use of its international facilities, including those in Australia and Thailand.
Plans also include setting up dedicated service stations to provide faster local support.
In February this year, BHP signed a long-term streaming agreement with Wheaton Precious Metals, which includes a $4.3bn (£3.17bn) upfront payment for silver from BHP’s production share at the Antamina mine in Peru.
