Boundary Objects for Integrating Maintenance into Strategic Procurement of Battery Production Equipment - A Case Study of Northvolt

Abstract

This master’s thesis investigates how maintenance considerations can be effectively integrated into the strategic procurement of battery production equipment, with a focus on Northvolt, a Swedish pioneer in battery manufacturing. As the battery industry grows rapidly to meet the increasing demand for electrification, ensuring robust procurement and maintenance processes becomes critical for operational efficiency and sustainability. The study addresses three primary research questions: mapping the procurement process and its associated difficulties and mitigation strategies, identifying critical maintenance-related challenges, and developing practical solutions to bridge procurement and maintenance functions. An abductive research approach was adopted, combining semi-structured interviews with a case study of Northvolt, supported by a literature review of strategic procurement, maintenance, and organizational coordination. This methodological design enabled iterative improvements between empirical insights and theoretical understanding throughout the study. Key findings identify procurement and maintenance challenges such as supplier dependency, departmental misalignment, and documentation gaps. In response, five interventions are conceptualized as boundary objects: 1) human intermediary, 2) cross-functional workshops, 3) cross-functional RFQ framework, 4) acceptance test framework, and 5) expert regional supplier-specific Teams (ERSSTs), each designed to strengthen coordination and improve long term equipment performance. Together, these form a system of boundary objects intended to support the early and systematic integration of maintenance considerations into the strategic procurement process. Beyond addressing firm-specific issues, this contribution offers practical insights for other industrial actors seeking to improve cross-functional collaboration and equipment lifecycle outcomes in complex manufacturing environments.