Today, producers of electronics, glass, and steel are increasing their demand for new sustainable high-temperature heating solutions. To meet this growing demand, Kanthal has expanded its silicon carbide heating element manufacturing facility in Perth, Scotland. The heating elements enable the electrification of processes up to 1,625°C. They can replace fossil fuel solutions, making production more energy-efficient, cleaner, and safer. This transition also ensures better process control while reducing CO2 emissions. The goal is to capture growth in the global market and to support long-term product and application development.
Credit: Fraser Band
Peter Lindelöv, Global Operations Manager, BU Heating Systems Kanthal, Scott Lawson, Production Unit Manager, Perth Kanthal, Robert Stål, President Kanthal, Simon Lile, President of Business Unit Heating Systems at Kanthal and Yvonne Edenholm, Press and Media Relations Manager Kanthal and Alleima
Around the world, governments are ramping up efforts to reduce industrial emissions as part of broader climate commitments. Heavy industry accounts for almost a quarter of global CO₂ emissions, making it a key focus area for decarbonization. A significant share of these emissions comes from high-temperature heating processes. Policy measures such as carbon pricing, emissions regulations, and clean-energy incentives are pushing manufacturers to rethink how heat is generated and to accelerate the shift toward lower-carbon production pathways.
Kanthal, a global leader in sustainable industrial heating technology, has been present in Perth for over 50 years. It has long been home to the company’s Globar® silicon carbide heating elements portfolio. In response to the increasing demand for sustainable high-temperature heating solutions, Kanthal initiated a new investment initiative in 2023. This initiative involves expanding the current facilities in Perth by adding 1,750 m² of manufacturing area. It also includes new equipment, an updated layout, and additional warehouse space, all aimed at enhancing production capacity and capabilities.
“Perth is a strategically important location where we have produced Globar® silicon carbide products for many years. With this expansion, we strengthen our ability to meet our customers' needs and reinforce our position as a trusted partner,” says Robert Stål, President Kanthal.
In line with the expansion in Perth, Kanthal has established a new service centre for Globar® heating elements at its existing facility in Concord, North Carolina, U.S. The total investment of approximately SEK 100 million will enhance the company's proximity to its customers, improve lead times and provide better service.
“Both locations are now fully operational, increasing the available production capacity for these products by approximately 40%. We are not just increasing capacity; we have also added capability which will enable new product and application developments that can cater for larger electrical heating solutions. The total investment will ensure that we can capture the growing global demand,” says Simon Lile, President of Business Unit Heating Systems at Kanthal.