ABB is part of a comprehensive reinvestment project at SSAB Borlänge’s current hot-rolling mill. Image SSAB

ABB has successfully secured three critical contracts with SSAB, the world leader in high-strength steel production, to supply advanced automation, electrification, and drive solutions for SSAB’s Borlänge plant in Sweden. This initiative is part of a broader reinvestment project aimed at enhancing the performance and reliability of the existing hot-rolling mill while supporting SSAB’s ambitious green transition objectives. The project is scheduled for execution between 2024 and 2027.

Strengthening Production for a Fossil-Free Future

As a global company with operations in over 50 countries, SSAB is renowned for its sustainability efforts, aiming to introduce fossil-free steel to the market by 2026 and ultimately eliminate carbon emissions from its production processes. The Borlänge mill, a critical part of SSAB’s operations since 1878, plays a pivotal role in these efforts. Modernizing the mill is crucial to maintaining stable production, which will be vital for the future development of a new fossil-free steel plant in Luleå, Sweden. While hot-rolling operations will eventually shift to the Luleå facility by 2030, ABB’s upgrades will ensure Borlänge’s continued productivity until then.

Leveraging Local Expertise with Global Solutions

Mattias Gidlund, SSAB’s Principal Project Manager overseeing the reinvestment, emphasized the importance of ABB’s strong local presence and global capabilities: “ABB’s global expertise combined with their strong local presence were key factors in our decision. We are confident that their comprehensive solutions will ensure the continued success of the Borlänge mill and significantly enhance our operational efficiency and production stability.”

ABB provides technology solutions to a range of metals industry customers, including in hot rolling plants. Image ABB.jpg

Key Upgrades and Technological Enhancements

The collaboration between ABB and SSAB encompasses several critical upgrades:

• Switchgear Performance Enhancement — ABB will execute a comprehensive modernization of the switchgear system, ensuring reliable and efficient 10.5kV power distribution throughout the hot-rolling mill. This includes advanced digitalization features for improved control, extended operational life, and enhanced safety measures through arc fault detection.
• Advanced Control Systems Integration — ABB is set to develop a long-term roadmap for upgrading and integrating legacy control systems into the ABB Ability™ System 800xA® environment. This upgrade will streamline diagnostics, improve troubleshooting, and create a unified operational system. The existing operator console will also be replaced to provide a more modern and efficient workspace.
• Drive and Motor Replacement for Stability and Reliability — the project will involve phased replacement of outdated converter drives, motors, and transformers, with upgrades beginning in the summer of 2025. These enhancements are designed to ensure long-term stability and reliability in SSAB’s operations.

ABB’s Commitment to the Metals Industry

With over a century of industry experience, ABB’s integrated automation and electrification solutions are designed to help metals manufacturers achieve higher productivity, quality, and operational efficiency. ABB’s comprehensive approach supports both new installations and modernization projects, providing tailored solutions that meet evolving market demands.

Driving the Future of Industrial Transformation

ABB’s Process Automation division is at the forefront of industrial digitalization, enabling more sustainable and resource-efficient operations across various industries. With a focus on improving safety, performance, and environmental impact, ABB’s solutions are designed to meet the growing demands of global markets while supporting industrial decarbonization initiatives.

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