Central Mining upgrades main conveyors with modern drive systems

The factory has installed a new SEW-EURODRIVE gearbox, which is three times lighter than the old equipment

The crushing plant at Central Mining and Processing Plant (Central Mining and Processing Plant, Metinvest) is continuing its program to upgrade the drive gearboxes of its conveyors. The program began two years ago with the replacement and repair of components of the K-2 main conveyor, which is one of the factory’s key transport lines, according to a statement from Metinvest.Media.

In 2025, the company is continuing this work. Currently, one of the gearboxes is undergoing major repairs, and another unit has been completely replaced with a new set manufactured by the German company SEW-EURODRIVE. This is already the third project of cooperation between the crushing plant and this equipment supplier.

“A completely new drive system with a gearbox replaces the outdated mechanism on our largest M-1 conveyor. It is used to transport ore from the second crushing stage to the third,” said Anton Milkevich, deputy head of engineering at the crushing plant.

According to him, the manufacturer took into account all the wishes of the mechanics and electricians of the Central Mining, so the equipment fully meets the requirements of the production process. Among the important advantages is a significantly reduced weight. The new set weighs only 5 tons compared to 15 tons for the previous one.

“The reduction in weight greatly simplifies installation, adjustment, and further maintenance. In addition, SEW-EURODRIVE gear units have proven themselves in terms of power, convenience, and reliability, even in the harsh conditions of the crushing plant,” emphasized Sergiy Mokhtan, chief mechanic of the plant.

Next year, the plant plans to complete the program by replacing the last of the five gearboxes. The main goal of the upgrade is to prevent emergency equipment shutdowns, ensure a stable production rhythm, and improve employee safety.

In May, Central Mining completed a three-week repair campaign costing almost UAH 40 million. During the shutdown, major and maintenance repairs were carried out on key production units, including the calciner, cup grate, smoke extractor No. 2, three conveyor belts, and excavators.