Metso's largest service centre completes first year of operations

In March 2024, Metso opened its largest service centre globally in Karratha, Western Australia. Strategically located in the Pilbara region, a top global supplier of iron ore and lithium, this state-of-the-art facility provides mining customers with comprehensive maintenance and repair solutions.

As the Karratha service centre is open 24/7, it enables Metso to support its local customers, efficiently and safely handling both scheduled maintenance tasks and urgent repairs. This level of support helps minimise customer downtime and keeps their equipment at optimal performance through all lifecycle stages.

By extending the operating life of assets, increasing energy and water efficiency, and minimising plant downtime, Metso supports customers in achieving their financial, environmental, and safety objectives.

Local market-leading service capability

The Karratha centre services heavy mining equipment including crushers, screens, mills, HIG mills, HPGRs, and car dumpers, among others. It is equipped with advanced amenities including high-capacity cranes, CNC machines, a heat treatment furnace, heavy fabrication and welding facilities, and assembly stations. The service centre spans 35 000 m², including a workshop covering 5000 m². These service capabilities are made possible by an investment totalling approximately €32 million (US$52 million). In addition to its service centres in Australia, Metso also has a network of test centres, manufacturing facilities, a foundry, and a smelting pilot plant in country to locally service its customers’ needs.

Working environment with enhanced safety

Employee safety is a top priority for Metso. The operational model and layout of the centre are designed to uphold and implement the highest safety standards. Equipped with modern state-of-the-art tools, craneages, and advanced equipment, the centre ensures a safe and efficient working environment for all employees.

Metso also offers apprenticeship programmes at the Karratha service centre, which not only support its operations but also contribute to the local community's growth and development.

Chris Gadeke, Regional Manager, Repairs Operations Pilbara region, Metso, says:

“The workforce comprises over 70% Karratha locals, with some of our Perth-based FIFO team relocating to Karratha. We are here for the long term and have implemented programmes to support employee satisfaction and retention in Karratha. As a statement of great progress, Metso Australia has recently been awarded the Great Place to Work® certification.”

Stuart Sneyd, President of Asia Pacific at Metso, says:

“We are committed to being closer to our customers and offering them state-of-the-art services. Our investment in Karratha, Australia has been exceptionally well-received by our customers, who appreciate the expert team and agile, comprehensive services we offer locally.

“By locating our service centre closer to our customers in the Pilbara, we significantly reduce the reliance on long-haul freight. This cuts down on kilometres traveled by heavy vehicles, aligning with Metso's sustainability goals to achieve net-zero CO2 emissions from our operations by 2030.”

Read the article online at: https://www.globalminingreview.com/mining/24032025/metsos-largest-service-centre-completes-first-year-of-operations/