This case study describes how ABB ACS 1000 variable speed drives have been used successfully at a cement plant to improve system availability, save energy and reduce maintenance costs, resulting in increased productivity and revenue for Cementos Cruz Azul.
The document presents a case study of Cementos Cruz Azul, Mexico, which replaced two 735 kW fixed‑speed ID fans with ABB’s ACS 1000 medium‑voltage variable speed drives. The upgrade increased daily cement production, saved about USD 260,000 per year in energy costs, and reduced maintenance time from 12 days to 8 hours annually.
Key technical data of the ACS 1000 are listed, including inverter type, output voltage options, maximum output frequency, and compatible motor type. The drive’s high efficiency (over 98 %) and availability (99.9 %) are highlighted as major contributors to the plant’s improved profitability.
| Inverter type | Three-level Voltage Source Inverter (VSI) |
|---|---|
| Output voltage | 2.3 kV, 3.3 kV, 4.0 kV, 4.16 kV (optional 6.0 kV‑6.6 kV with step‑up transformer) |
| Maximum output frequency | 66 Hz (optional 82.5 Hz) |
| Compatible motor type | Induction motor |
The drives saved approximately USD 260,000 per year.
Maintenance time decreased from 12 days to 8 hours per year.
The drive operates with efficiency in excess of 98 %.
The drive offers an availability of 99.9 %.