A fascinating seminar
Old mines given new life
On 16 March, Bergskraft arranged the first in a series of seminars about plans to start operations in previously closed down iron mines in Bergslagen, a region in central Sweden. SMA Mineral was represented at the seminar by Jan Batte, Roger Engholm and Patrik Hjärpe. Interest in the seminar was extensive, as this project will mean a great deal for the local community and indeed the entire region. However, major investment in infrastructure will be required as well as shared efforts to attract a qualified workforce.
“At SMA Mineral we view this new venture very positively,” says Patrik Hjärpe, one of SMA Mineral’s sales engineers. “We have our own mining operations in this area and our lime products are an essential process material in the full life cycle of a mine.”
Three companies – Grängesberg Iron, Nordic Iron Ore and Dannemora Mineral – presented their plans for start-up and operation. It is hoped that production will start in 2012.
The Swedish Transport Administration made a presentation confirming that the railway network will require a lot of work and major investment in order to transport up to 5 million tons of iron ore a year.
The venture will also require a large amount of personnel, creating many new jobs. While this means fantastic opportunities for local growth it will require strong efforts to attract competent staff and encourage them to live in the community where the jobs are.
SMA Mineral would like to thank Bergskraft for taking the initiative to arrange the seminar and look forward to further activities.
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