MALMBERGET, SWEDEN – In a significant move to modernize one of the world’s most critical iron ore operations, Sandvik Rock Processing Solutions has been awarded a major contract by LKAB (Luossavaara-Kiirunavaara AB) to supply the core crushing and screening infrastructure for a new sorting plant in Malmberget. The order, valued at approximately SEK 175 million, represents a pivotal step in LKAB’s multi-billion krona investment to secure the future of its Swedish mining operations.
A Strategic Investment in Swedish Mining
The new sorting plant is part of a broader SEK 6 billion (EUR 550 million) infrastructure overhaul by LKAB in the Gällivare region. As the operator of the world’s second-largest underground iron ore mine, LKAB is under pressure to increase efficiency while transitioning toward carbon-free sponge iron production. The Malmberget facility, slated to be operational by 2028, is designed to handle a staggering annual throughput of 24 million tons of magnetite ore and one million tons of hematite ore.
The plant serves as the primary gateway for crude ore before it enters the beneficiation process. Here, the ore undergoes a rigorous cycle of crushing, screening, and magnetic separation—a process essential for transforming raw material into the high-grade fines and pellets required for green steel production.
Technical Excellence: The Sandvik Solution
Sandvik’s contribution centers on a suite of high-performance equipment tailored to the extreme demands of Arctic mining. The order includes:
- 800i Series Cone Crushers: These units are renowned for their reliability and high capacity. They utilize an Engineered-To-Order (ETO) design, allowing Sandvik to optimize the crushing chambers specifically for the hard magnetite ore found in Malmberget.
- Double-Deck Vibrating Screens: These screens provide precise size separation, ensuring that only material of the correct dimensions moves forward, thereby reducing energy waste in downstream processing.
- Heavy-Duty Vibrating Feeders: Designed to handle high-impact loads, these feeders ensure a consistent flow of ore into the crushers, preventing bottlenecks.
The Power of ACS-c 5 Automation
Central to the delivery is Sandvik’s Automation and Connectivity System (ACS). This digital backbone integrates directly into LKAB’s centralized plant control system. By utilizing real-time data from the ACS-c 5, operators can:
- Optimize Performance: Adjust crusher settings on-the-fly to maintain peak efficiency despite variations in ore hardness.
- Proactive Maintenance: Monitor wear and tear to predict component failure before it occurs, drastically reducing unscheduled downtime.
- Data-Driven Decisions: Access comprehensive analytics to refine the entire production flow.
Leadership Perspectives
“We look forward to further strengthening our collaboration with LKAB and supporting their operations with the latest technology, innovation, and service capabilities,” stated Richard Harris, President of Sandvik Rock Processing Solutions. “Our solution combines advanced technology with customized engineering to maximize productivity and product quality in line with LKAB’s rigorous specifications.”
Future Outlook
With deliveries scheduled for the second and third quarters of 2027, the project is on a fast track. The integration of Sandvik’s technology is expected to significantly lower the energy intensity of the crushing process, supporting LKAB’s ambition to lead the global mining industry’s transition toward sustainability. As the 2028 operational deadline approaches, this partnership stands as a testament to the role of automation in the future of heavy industry.
