Metso says it has opened its largest service centre globally in Karratha, Western Australia, aiming to support the growing demand of customers’ needs, delivering more sustainable, state-of-the-art services to operators in the state.
Located in the Pilbara, the centre serves mining and aggregates customers with comprehensive maintenance and repair solutions, it said. The inauguration ceremony was held today on March 21, 2024.
Sami Takaluoma, President, Services business area, Metso, said: “The opening of the new centre is an important milestone and further proof of our commitment to accelerate strategic investments in serving customers from pit to port. Strengthening our presence to offer increased productivity, shorter lead times and environmental advantages will allow us to take service capabilities and customer experience to the next level.”
The Karratha Service Center, backed by an investment totaling approximately €32 million ($34.9 million), spans a 35,000 sq.m area, including a workshop covering 5,000 sq.m.
Equipped with high-capacity cranes, CNC machines, a heat treatment furnace, welding facilities and assembly stations, this centre has received significant customer support, Metso says. It will be able to service a wide range of heavy mining equipment, including crushers, screens, mills, HIG mills, high pressure grinding rolls and car dumpers, among others.
The centre also contributes to customers’ sustainability goals. By extending the operating life of assets, increasing energy and water efficiency and minimising plant downtime, Metso helps customers in achieving their environmental and safety objectives, it says. Further, by reducing the need for long-haul freight between Perth and the Pilbara region, the centre reduces carbon emissions and offers faster access to critical spare parts. This not only benefits the environment but also enhances operational efficiency.
Stuart Sneyd, President, Asia Pacific, Metso, said: “This is a long-term and significant commitment to the Pilbara region and the communities here. We are extremely pleased that our local customers are already expressing considerable interest and confidence in our services. Metso has a significant installed base of equipment and a strong reputation in Asia Pacific; every day over 900 processing plants rely on Metso’s technology. By utilising Metso’s service knowhow and expertise, genuine parts, exact materials and OEM specifications, customers will achieve significant business and sustainability benefits.”
The Karratha Service Center features a dedicated training facility, offering tailored programs to enhance the technical expertise of mining professionals, Metso says. The centre will provide long-term stable employment to skilled personnel from the local communities, including trades, service engineers and experts. An apprenticeship program targeting the local community is also planned for the centre. In Asia Pacific alone, Metso contributes to the creation of more than 1,250 jobs, which will be further strengthened with the opening of the Karratha Service Centre.