KGHM Polska Miedź S.A. and Wrocław University of Science and Technology strengthen cooperation – framework agreement on research and scientific projects has been signed

KGHM Polska Miedź S.A. and Wrocław University of Science and Technology have signed a framework agreement on cooperation. This document assumes the expansion of economic cooperation in the area of research and development, services and joint solutions of technological problems based on scientific potential and experienced expert personnel. The agreement also opens the door to raising external funding for innovative research initiatives.

Long-term cooperation for innovation

KGHM and Wrocław University of Science and Technology have been cooperating for many years. Examples of projects carried out as part of this cooperation include the optimisation of technological processes, regeneration of machine components in difficult operating conditions and modelling of the operation of blast furnaces. In 2021, work began on optimising hammer crushers, and in the following years the scope of research was extended to include monitoring the operating parameters of power equipment and modelling metallurgical systems.

The signed agreement formalises our activities and allows for even closer cooperation, which will be beneficial for both industry and science. Together with the university, we can achieve more, especially in the area of technological innovation, which is of key importance for the future of our mining and metallurgy industries – said Zbigniew Bryja, KGHM's Vice President for Development.

Modern laboratories and new projects

A key element of the cooperation between KGHM and the Wrocław University of Science and Technology is the use of advanced research infrastructure. GEO-3EM, one of the most modern scientific centres in Europe, offers unique research opportunities in the field of sustainable use of raw materials and energy. This complex, opened in 2019, has 12 research laboratories, including laboratories specialising in modelling techniques, occupational safety and machine systems in mining.

By combining scientific research with practical knowledge used in KGHM's divisions, the copper company and the university can effectively address the challenges of the future, such as digitalising industrial processes, improving work safety or reducing the carbon footprint.

A step towards sustainable development

The agreement between KGHM and Wrocław University of Science and Technology is also a step towards the development of innovative technologies related to Industry 4.0 and data analytics. The projects to be carried out in 2024 focus on improving work safety, energy efficiency, environmental protection and developing the principles of a circular economy.

Joint scientific and research plans on the horizon

In the near future, KGHM and Wrocław University of Science and Technology are planning new projects, including the development of an integrated system for monitoring and diagnostics of machine operation and the expansion of a seismic monitoring system. Both partners also announce cooperation in the development of mining, metallurgical and processing technologies.

KGHM is also a patron of two faculties at Wrocław University of Science and Technology - geoinformatics and, geodesy and cartography. The cooperation assumes, among other things, the organisation of student internships and the joint development of curricula.