LKAB is planning to modernise its central (CA) hoisting plant consisting of eight mine hoists, B1 – B8, within the coming eight to nine years. The CA hoisting plant, the main artery of LKAB's production flow, raises ore from the sub level (898m) up to ground level.

ABB has supplied equipment for all 12 production hoists to Kiruna: five for the sub-vertical level and seven for the CA hoisting plant. LKAB ordered its first new hoist, B1, in 2014 from ABB.

ABB’s delivery includes entirely new mechanical equipment for the B3 hoist plant and shafts, new electrical and control equipment, construction, electrical installation, installation supervision, site management as well as commissioning. Only the existing motor for the hoist will remain; all other parts of the hoist will be completely new.

Delivery of the B3 hoist will start in mid-2017, and it is scheduled be operational by mid-2018.