Nornickel displayed its industrial exoskeletons at an advanced technology exhibition organised by the Agency for Strategic Initiatives (ASI). The devices are designed to improve labour productivity and industrial safety.

“Exoskeleton projects play an important role in the National Technology Initiative for Russia’s leadership in global technology markets by 2035,” the ASI’s spokesperson said. The best solutions were demonstrated at the exhibition, which was attended by Russian President Vladimir Putin.

Nornickel and Digital Lab, its R&D unit, are developing industrial exoskeletons in collaboration with the South-West State University in Kursk. Currently, six units are being prototyped. Apart from Nornickel’s Polar Division, the tests are run on production sites of other Russian metals companies. One of the prototypes was tested at Severstal’s Vorkutaugol in September. After each test, Nornickel collects feedback and recommendations to further improve the devices.

Levon Kirakosyan, Head of Digital Projects and CDO at Nornickel, said that many large companies require certain levels of heavy manual labour. According to the Federal State Statistics Service of Russia, over 5 mln of Russian workers aged 15 to 72 are exposed to physical exertion in mining, processing, construction, transportation and storage, and not all manually handled operations can be successfully automated. “However, we are able to help workers by introducing advanced technology,” said Levon Kirakosyan. “One of the solutions here is industrial exoskeletons, which reduce load on the human’s spine and legs and carry up to 90% of the weight when lifting as much as 60 kg.”

Levon Kirakosyan added that the use of exoskeletons can also solve health and safety issues and improve operational efficiency.

“We are currently in the middle of testing the third prototype, and I must say that the device is extremely light when adjusted correctly,” said Victor Dikonenko, Deputy Chief Engineer and Chief Process Engineer at Norilskremont Production Association of Norilsknickelremont (part of the Nornickel Group). “An exoskeleton helps reduce loads, ensures safety of operations, and gives us extra abilities. I believe this technology will speed up and enhance the production process going forward. Our latest research shows that one worker wearing an exoskeleton is as productive as three workers exposed to heavy manual labour. It is most useful in operations with heavy hand tools, laying pipes, loading and unloading, and installing metal structures.”

Made of light and durable aviation aluminium, Nornickel’s industrial exoskeletons reflect biomechanics of human movement. They transfer the load from the human’s spine to their own metal framework. Workers put on exoskeletons over their workwear and adjust them with belts. Exoskeletons have a wide range of applications in various areas, from industrial production to medicine.

Nornickel demonstrates industrial exoskeletons to President of Russia