CUSTOMER-LED UPGRADES FOR GEARLESS MILL DRIVE TECHNOLOGY
As a critical component in grinding operations, internal inspections of ring motors have traditionally posed two frequent challenges: achieving optimal visibility and implementing effective fall protection systems, while keeping the required inspection downtime to a minimum. Working in collaboration with service specialists and frontline user crews, ABB analysed customer feedback and launched a development project to improve the safety and comfort of personnel accessing the interior of the ring motor.
The newly integrated GMD motor lights ensure better visibility inside the motor housing, delivering consistent illumination across all internal working areas and eliminating shadows to enhance inspection clarity and accuracy. In addition, the improved lighting reduces the risk of slips, trips and falls, contributing to a safer and more efficient inspection process.
The anchor points have been engineered as certified safety hooking points throughout the interior stator circumference. They support ABB GMD customers in increasing safety more effectively and are compliant with international fall protection standards, such as EN 795 and OSHA 1926.502. The motor lights also contribute to improving HSE aspects for adequate workplace illumination during inspection tasks. These upgrades also enhance the efficiency of GMD inspections in harsh mining environments.
The certified anchor points are now a standard feature in new ABB ring motors, with the LED lighting systems available as an optional upgrade. Both solutions can also be retrofitted to existing GMDs. The new features are being rolled out across ABB’s GMD portfolio, with early pilot installations across customer sites receiving highly positive feedback, citing both improved safety conditions and better outcomes from inspections.
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This article appeared in Renew magazine. To read more or request your personal digital or print edition of Renew, click here.
