Lafarge Canada selects ABB to modernize cement plant operations for more sustainable production

Lafarge Canada, a member of the Holcim Group, has chosen ABB to update the process control system at the Bath Cement Plant in Kingston, Ontario. This modernization marks another key step in Lafarge’s commitment to decarbonizing its operations. ABB will supply, commission, and support its ABB Ability™ System 800xA^® distributed control system (DCS), providing operators with enhanced visibility and control over the plant’s processes. The Bath facility produces over one million tons annually of Lafarge’s OneCem^® low-carbon cement, further advancing sustainable construction in Canada.

Located on the shores of Lake Ontario, Bath Cement Plant has been a key supplier to the Canadian construction industry since 1973. In recent years, Lafarge has been accelerating sustainable growth with decarbonization efforts, as well as by transitioning to low-carbon fuels and upgrading to a more energy-efficient kiln. The plant is also piloting an innovative carbon capture process at the site, which holds significant potential to support Lafarge’s goal of achieving net-zero emissions in 2050.

“At Lafarge Canada, we are dedicated to advancing sustainable construction, not least through rigorous decarbonization efforts. From working with ABB to upgrade our process control system, to integrating low-carbon fuels and upgrading to energy-efficient kiln technology, we are significantly leading the way in sustainable construction by reducing our carbon emissions per ton of cement produced,” said Andrew Stewart, VP, Cement, Lafarge Canada. “For example, our pilot carbon capture initiative with Hyperion has also been critical, as it leverages innovative processes to capture and sequester CO2, bringing us closer to our goal of net-zero emissions. These initiatives not only enhance our operational efficiency but allow us to continuously deliver high-quality, sustainable products to our customers."

ABB has a long-standing relationship with the Holcim Group, who previously selected ABB as a technology supplier for their global digitalization efforts at their cement production facilities globally. ABB's upgraded process control system at Bath will enable ongoing energy-savings and optimization opportunities for the Lafarge operations team, while ensuring seamless plant operations on a day-to-day basis.

“ABB works across a variety of industries helping the world’s manufacturers and producers make real progress in their decarbonization journey,” said Bulent Kolanci, North America Sales Manager for Business Unit Cement, ABB Process Industries. “The team at Bath is very inspiring to work with as they are creative and focused in achieving their stated objectives. We’re very happy to be a part of this journey with them.”

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