Danish cable-maker NKT is strengthening its R&D department with the take-over of power electronics giant ABB’s technology consulting arm.
The acquired division, which specialises in areas within power cable development such as chemistry and materials, applied mechanics and electrical testing, is seen as “key” to NKT in enhancing its technology capabilities for future cable technology, particularly high voltage direct current (HVDC).
“This is an important step in strengthening our technology capabilities and R&D setup to maintain our strong market position within innovative power cable solutions,” said NKT chief technology officer Anders Jensen.
“We are keen to continue to grow the consultancy business and leverage the strong technological capabilities of the team to continue to develop our portfolio of power cables solutions.
“With the acquisition we strengthen our competencies within HVDC technology. This enhances our market position in the growing HVDC market driven by offshore wind and interconnectors.
The acquisition was completed 1 December and the consultancy business remains located in Västerås, Sweden.
HVDC is regarded as a key area of technology development in the offshore wind sector as the low-loss export transmission concept will be of increasing importance to developers as projects move longer distances from shore.
