Kanthal AB, a leading steel manufacturer in Sweden, recently faced a critical challenge. Their rolling mill in Hallstahammar had relied on a DC motor and drive system installed more than 70 years ago. Spare parts were scarce, downtime risks were increasing, and system efficiency was falling behind modern standards.
ABB stepped in with a complete modernization plan. While this success story took place overseas, the same level of transformation is available here in Canada — through Proax, an ABB Value Provider and authorized distributor.
The Kanthal Upgrade: A Proven Success
In the summer of 2021, ABB replaced Kanthal’s aging DC drive system with a fully integrated AC solution, built around the highly efficient ACS880 drive series. The upgrade included:
- A new AC motor and ACS880 drive system
- A 70-ton gearbox, transformer, and control system
- Full electrical and mechanical installation
- On-site commissioning, testing, and foundation work
The results were significant:
- Energy efficiency improved dramatically, with harmonic distortion dropping from 30% to 3–4%
- Reliability increased and unplanned stoppages decreased
- Operators gained greater process visibility and control via real-time monitoring
- Maintenance costs dropped thanks to newer technology and simplified upkeep
Bringing the Same Expertise to Canadian Manufacturers
At Proax, we bring ABB’s global innovation to Canadian manufacturing environments. As an ABB Value Provider and authorized distributor, we don’t just supply products. We deliver complete solutions.
Whether you're operating a metals facility, a packaging plant, or a food and beverage line, our local teams help you modernize with:
- Technical consultation and design expertise
- On-site support throughout deployment and after-sales service
- Hands-on training to help your team operate and maintain systems confidently
National Support with Local Commitment
Our in-house engineering team is equipped to assist with everything from drive sizing and selection to integration, programming, and commissioning. We understand your application challenges and tailor ABB solutions for long-term reliability and performance.
With our campaign named Boots on the Ground, our team members and manufacturer reps are currently touring facilities across Canada — offering free automation consultations directly on-site. It’s part of our commitment to stay close to our customers and offer proactive support where it matters most.
Explore the Right Solutions
Ready to modernize like Kanthal did? We offer the same ABB drives and expertise to Canadian facilities:
Reference
ABB Modernization Drives Efficiency at Kanthal’s Rolling Mill in Sweden
