ABB buys power distribution centers, expands Canadian presence

By Control Engineering Staff August 22, 2006

Calgary , Alberta — ABB has acquired assets of the manufacturing and industrial contracting units of Canadian-based Raffin Electric Co. Ltd. Raffin makes custom pre-manufactured power distribution centers and other electrical distribution equipment used primarily in harsh outdoor environments.

The acquisition will be integrated into ABB’s power products for medium voltage business and will continue to operate as a dedicated site in Calgary. Raffin Electric employs about 65 at the Calgary site and generates more than $20 million Canadian in annual revenues.

“This acquisition will help strengthen ABB’s position in supplying power and automation products, services, and systems to the oil and gas industry,” said Sandy Taylor, ABB Canada’s president and global head of ABB’s oil and gas business. The ABB group operates in some 100 countries and employs approximately 107,000 people, about 1,800 at 25 locations in Canada.

“Raffin’s products, its reputation for delivering quality services, and the people behind those products and services, will complement ABB’s focus on meeting customer needs for improved reliability and performance in electrical distribution networks,” added Peter Didaskalos, vice president and general manager, high- and medium-voltage apparatus, power products division, North America.

—Control Engineering Daily News Desk

Jeanine Katzel , senior editor