Bluestone Mines Tasmania Joint Venture has selected ABB to deliver a significant modernization of the main production hoist at the Renison mine – Australia’s largest tin mine.
With the mine now operating at greater depths, hoist modernisation became essential to maintain reliability, maximise productivity and extend the life expectancy of critical machinery. The upgrade from ABB will replace a legacy hoist system that was installed at the Tasmanian mine in the 1990s. The design will address space constraints in the existing winder house, using an innovative layout that retrofits new equipment into the current switch room and introduces a new surface-mounted room for control and safety systems.
ABB will also deliver a digitally integrated control system to ensure reliable performance, reduce downtime and streamline machine maintenance. At the same time, the new system will enhance energy efficiency to provide a more sustainable, cost-effective haulage solution for deeper mine operations, particularly when compared to traditional trucking.
“This investment supports the long-term future of the Renison operation,” said Mark Recklies, BMTJV chief operating officer. “Working alongside ABB, we’re upgrading a critical part of our infrastructure in a way that ensures safety, improves system availability and prepares us for the next decade of production of important minerals.”
The upgrade, which began in the first quarter of 2025, also includes the installation of ABB’s latest Safety Plus hoist control platform, a fully SIL 3-certified system designed to meet the highest functional safety standards. ABB will be supplying a new DC converter, brake stands, hydraulic power system, shaft communication system and a full suite of engineering and commissioning services.
Commissioning is expected in 2026.
Source: ABB