25.November
From Mine to Mine: Boliden and ABB Completing the Electrical Circle
How ABB and Boliden are Pioneering the Transition to a Circular, Fossil-Free Economy
Low-carbon, reliable, and energy-efficient products are key to achieving a net-zero future. ABB’s Kabeldon cable distribution cabinets, coated with zinc sourced from Boliden, embody these principles. With a carbon footprint 75% below the global average, Boliden’s Low-Carbon Zinc not only enhances ABB’s cabinets but also closes the loop by integrating these cabinets into the infrastructure of Boliden’s mines, where the zinc originates.
“Low-Carbon Zinc allows us to help our customers, and their customers, minimize their carbon footprint,” explains Daniel Asplund, Manager of Zinc Sales at Boliden. “The cycle comes full circle as ABB’s cabinets, made with this zinc, are used in our mines where the ore is extracted.”
Philip Wallman, ABB’s Kabeldon Product Manager, adds: “Our commitment to sustainability includes sourcing environmentally friendly materials. Boliden’s Low-Carbon Zinc lets us offer durable, high-quality products while reducing their environmental impact.”
Securing Power Grids with ABB’s Cable Distribution Cabinets
ABB’s galvanized cable distribution cabinets are a familiar feature across Scandinavia, supporting electricity grids in diverse environments. Designed and manufactured in ABB’s Alingsås, Sweden factory, the cabinets blend over a century of innovation with modern sustainability practices.
“The Alingsås team has a long history of developing safe, adaptable solutions. Our products continue to evolve with a focus on sustainability, without compromising on safety,” says Wallman.
These cabinets are built for efficiency and reliability. Their modular, IP-protected design ensures they are easy to upgrade with new technology, supporting low-cost operations and reliable energy delivery.
Hot-Dip Galvanizing for Longevity
To endure decades of harsh outdoor conditions, ABB’s steel cabinets undergo hot-dip galvanizing, a process that applies a protective zinc layer to prevent corrosion. For this, ABB exclusively uses Boliden’s Low-Carbon Zinc.
“Hot-dip galvanizing requires precision, and controlling the value chain ensures quality,” Wallman explains. “By utilizing Boliden’s low-carbon zinc, we further reduce the environmental footprint of our products.”
The Role of Low-Carbon Zinc in Reducing Emissions
Zinc is indispensable in sustainable infrastructure, with nearly half of global zinc production used for galvanizing steel. Recognizing the energy-intensive nature of zinc production, Boliden introduced its Low-Carbon Zinc in 2022, extracted from its own mines and refined using fossil-free electricity.
“Our emissions footprint is exceptionally low—about 1 kg of CO₂ per kg of metal, compared to the industry average of 3.6 kg,” says Asplund. “This is thanks to electrified mines and renewable energy-powered smelters.”
Building an Electrified Mine in Rävliden
Boliden is constructing an electrified mine in Rävliden, Sweden, which will sustainably produce zinc, copper, lead, gold, and silver while reducing CO₂ emissions and energy consumption. ABB’s cable distribution cabinets play a vital role in this mine’s infrastructure.
“The move toward electrification and autonomous vehicles improves safety and working conditions,” says Ola Nordberg, Boliden’s Sub-Project Manager for Electricity & Automation. “ABB’s flexible low-voltage grid solutions, like their cable distribution cabinets, are essential to this progress.”
Enhancing Mining Efficiency with Flexible Solutions
In Rävliden, ABB’s cable distribution cabinets serve as key nodes for powering lighting, ventilation, pumps, vehicle charging, and mining machinery. These 400V and 1000V cabinets are mounted on movable stands or fixed to rock walls, adapting seamlessly as the mine evolves.
“The mine’s electrical infrastructure is always changing, and ABB’s flexible design is a major advantage,” Nordberg explains. “Standardized cabinets save costs and reduce climate impact by minimizing the need for new production. Plus, their adaptability between 400V and 1000V systems simplifies operations and inventory.”
This streamlined partnership between ABB and Boliden demonstrates the possibilities of combining sustainability with innovative technology, setting a new standard for the mining and energy industries.