LKAB Kiruna's new haulage level ABB mine hoist upgrade for production increase
The document outlines the upgrade of the four sub‑vertical level hoists at the LKAB Kiruna mine from DC to AC technology and the addition of a fifth double‑skip hoist for the new -1365 m level. It explains the reasons for selecting ABB hoist technology, such as high availability, efficient operation, and safe brake integration.
Technical details cover the hoist data, frequency converter ACS 6000 with Direct Torque Control, motor and drive specifications, control system architecture, hydraulic brake units, and rope attachment mechanisms. Contact information for ABB Mining is provided at the end of the manual.
| Number of hoists | 4 (existing) / 5 (new) |
|---|---|
| Production per hoist | 1560 tonnes/hour (existing) / 1510 tonnes/hour (new) |
| Hoisting distance | 355 m (existing) / 710 m (new) |
| Speed | 11 m/s (existing) / 17 m/s (new) |
| Pulley diameter | 3.25 m |
| Number of ropes per hoist | 6 |
| Payload | 30 tonnes (existing) / 34 tonnes (new) |
| Motor power | 5,600 kW |
| Motor voltage | 3 × 3150 V |
| Motor speed | 64.7 rpm at 8.6 Hz (existing) / 100 rpm at 13.3 Hz (new) |
| Drive system | AC with Direct Torque Control (DTC) |
Because it offers high operation availability, a production‑friendly operating system, safe and precise brake‑hydraulic interaction, and good experience from previous installations.
Each hoist uses a motor with a power rating of 5,600 kW.
The hoists use an AC drive with Direct Torque Control (DTC).
The hoist is equipped with 14 disc brake units, seven on each side of the pulley.