2009-09-15 - ABB South Africa’s motor factory increases capacity for local and export orders
Johannesburg, South Africa, 1 September 2009 - ABB, the leading power and automation technology group, has invested in a new coil shop at its Alrode machine factory in Johannesburg to meet local and global demand. ABB motors are key elements in energy efficient solutions to reduce the carbon footprint in industry.
“This investment is an example of our commitment to the region, and to modernizing our local manufacturing facilities with the best in the world,” said Carlos Poñe, CEO, ABB South Africa. “It is an integrated part of the global machines family and adds value to ABB. The projected growth will lead to greater job creation.”
ABB South Africa drew on the vast resources within the group internationally and facilitated technology transfers on several key areas such as research and development, design, supply chain and after-sales service. The new coil shop is a flexible and high quality manufacturing and research facility able to provide reliable coils for new and refurbished motors and generators.
The 8000m² machine factory for HV motors has a unique position within the ABB Group. It is the company’s oldest operating factory outside Europe and has a flexibility that allows it to target several niche markets around the world. The factory has undergone layout changes to ensure improved work flow and utilization of resources and space.
ABB’s investment in the Alrode machine factory will ensure continuous success, both in the domestic and overseas markets. “To have a global footprint and world class manufacturing technology in all our manufacturing locations is a strategic decision for us,” said Ilpo Varela, local business unit manager. “It also enables the use of ABB Machines product platforms, global resources and benefits of Group R&D.”