Sandvik and Metso are expanding manufacturing and testing capabilities in Finland and Sweden, while Epiroc is supplying equipment and support services to copper and platinum operations in Africa. The developments cover production capacity, large-scale equipment testing and international mining contracts.
Sandvik’s expanded rock-drill facility in Tampere, Finland, is entering its production ramp-up phase during 2026 and 2027. The phased expansion plan envisaged an initial 25% increase in capacity, with potential for a further 20%. These figures represent planned capacity increases rather than confirmed production gains.
Metso Commissions 4 MW Pump Testing Facility
At Sala, Sweden, Metso commissioned a 4 MW slurry-pump test rig capable of handling flows of up to 25,000 cubic metres per hour. The company is also expanding the site with a 5,400-square-metre warehouse and delivery centre.
The testing facility will support performance assessment for equipment used in mineral-processing circuits. Pump selection affects plant reliability and operating expenditure, making verification under demanding operating conditions important alongside nominal equipment specifications.
Epiroc Supplies Equipment to African Mining Operations
Epiroc’s September announcements included equipment orders for MMG’s Khoemacau copper expansion in Botswana and Sibanye-Stillwater’s Siphumelele platinum operation in South Africa. The contracts extend the market for European mining equipment beyond the continent’s own mineral production.
At Khoemacau, Epiroc’s scope includes remote-control systems for loaders, spare parts, tools and on-site support. The package combines machinery with services intended to support equipment operation and maintenance. Deliveries of low-profile mining equipment for Sibanye-Stillwater’s Siphumelele operation are scheduled to begin in the fourth quarter of 2026.
Equipment Services and Reliability Support Demand
For mining equipment manufacturers, commercial performance depends on both new machinery sales and recurring requirements from installed fleets. Delivery schedules, local service capabilities and spare-parts availability influence equipment utilisation and customers’ future purchasing decisions. Investments in manufacturing facilities and testing infrastructure support equipment production and performance verification. Sustained demand also depends on reliable delivery, maintenance support and demonstrated performance under actual mining and mineral-processing conditions.
