LKAB is modernising its central (CA) hoisting plant, which consists of eight hoists (B1-B8) in the CA plant, and five hoists in the sub-vertical level. ABB had recently won orders to deliver a new B1 hoist and modernise the B3 hoist, and has supplied equipment for all 13 production hoists over the years.

The main artery of LKAB's production flow, the CA plant raises ore from the sub level (898m) up to ground level.

ABB’s delivery includes mechanical equipment for the hoist plants and shafts, electrical and control equipment, construction, electrical installation, installation supervision, site management and commissioning.

Hoists are among the most significant pieces of equipment in an underground mine, and must operate at the highest level of reliability and safety, as any potential failure can lead to catastrophic results.

“We are proud to be chosen again by LKAB, the leading iron-ore supplier in Europe, for this important series of projects,” said Oswald Deuchar, head of ABB’s Global Product Group Underground Mining. “The long history of cooperation between ABB and LKAB, and also ABB’s decades of deep knowledge and experience in mine-hoist technology, were key factors in winning this order.”

ABB has a long tradition of cooperation with LKAB dating back more than 60 years. The first hoist was delivered to LKAB in 1948.

The modernisation project is scheduled to start in 2018, and continue through 2024.