Kazakhstan mining and metals group Qarmet JSC has engaged Swedish equipment manufacturer Sandvik to train up to 300 workers at its Atasu iron ore mine in central Kazakhstan to use the machines Sandvik is supplying as part of a modernisation of the operation.
Qarmet JSC subsidiary Orken says it is transitioning from manual to mechanised underground mining at Atasu, part of the 70-year-old Karazhal iron ore and manganese mining complex at Karazhal in the country’s Ulytau region.
Qarmet JSC, controlled by Kazakhstan billionaire Andrey Lavrentyev through Qazaqstan Steel Group, acquired the former steel and mining assets of ArcelorMittal Temirtau in 2023 in a deal worth about US$1 billion.
“Transitioning from manual development to mechanised mining is an important step in increasing the production and efficiency of our Western Karazhal operations,” said Qarmet JSC chair Petr Trushin.
Sandvik is supplying a big fleet of underground trucks, loaders, drills and a raise boring machine. Deliveries are expected to start in December this year and run through to 2028.
About 300 Orken employees will undergo initial skills assessments followed by theoretical and practical training tailored to the different equipment types.
“As part of the transition Sandvik will deliver an extensive training program to help Orken’s existing personnel develop the skills required to operate and maintain the new mechanised fleet,” the supplier said.
Orken CEO Makhmut Mustafin said: “Sandvik will work with us to build the skills and expertise of our existing workforce, helping our employees play an important role in the next stage of the mine’s development.”
Sandvik is also providing finance and has sold maintenance and technical support hours and spare parts.
“Mechanisation is about much more than introducing new equipment,” said Sandvik Mining Southern Europe, Middle East and CIS sales VP, Vesa Korpela.
“Our role is to work alongside Orken through this transformation, helping its employees develop the skills and technical capabilities needed to get the full value from the new fleet. With equipment covering virtually every stage of the underground mining cycle, supported by training, technical support, parts and rock tools, we can provide a strong platform for safer, more productive and efficient operations at Western Karazhal.”
