A Saskatchewan, Canada mine is receiving the largest friction hoist in
North America, according to supplier ABB.
ABB claims it will be the largest hoist in the world to use direct torque control.
The hoist drum diameter is a massive 19ft 6in (6m) and motor power is 11,300 HP.
It will be installed in a new hoist room on top of the existing head frame of Mosaic’s K2 Potash mine in Esterhazy, Saskatchewan.
ABB says the AC drive system will help smooth electricity demand, which can have a big impact on neighbours. The company is supplying motor, drive, mechanical equipment, control system and operators’ stations. Installation will begin in early 2006. The hoist is scheduled to come online in September 2006.