Earlier this year, our team in Norway had the wonderful opportunity to tour the Boliden Odda zinc smelter where we were introduced to new green zinc production technologies and the end-to-end production process. Accompanied by good-spirited and long-time staff members, our plant visit was nothing short of fascinating.
Our guide for the day took us inside to see the massive yellow tank house crane and an all-electric industrial robot named Johannes 4.0, the latest successor of Johannes 2.0 and Johannes 3.0—which our team later learned was not a mere coincidence!
The Johannes Effect
Johannes was an inspiration at the Boliden Odda zinc smelter for more than 30 years. Never missing a day at work, Johannes always outperformed himself at his tasks. To honour his strong work ethic, staff members affectionately named the robot after him.

A Generation of Johannes
Today, the smelter plant is serviced by the fourth generation of the industrial robot. While Johannes 4.0 is much taller, faster, and stronger than the human Johannes, it can never truly replace him in the hearts of many. Instead, it serves as a reminder that though machines might make our jobs more efficient and safer, they cannot replace our craving for human connections and desire to collaborate with our colleagues.
With ambitious plans to become the most sustainable zinc smelter in the world, Boliden is looking to elevate its waste management systems and minimize carbon dioxide intensity levels in future expansion projects. Many like Johannes (and Johannes 4.0) are working around the clock to make this a reality.
Stay tuned for more updates on Draga's collaboration with Boliden. To learn more about us, visit www.draga.sg.