Wolfram Bergbau's new underground processing plant: Innovation at depth
Tungsten forms the basis in valuable high-tech components across several industries. Wolfram Bergbau und Hütten AG is a global leader in tungsten mining, operating one of the most significant tungsten mines in Mittersill, Austria. To meet the challenges of deeper mining and longer transport routes, the company commissioned a state-of-the-art Sandvik processing plant deep within the heart of the mountain, enhancing efficiency, reducing cost, and supporting sustainability.
As tungsten ore is extracted at greater depths, transporting materials uphill has become an increasing feat. As a means of rising to the challenge, Wolfram constructed a cutting-edge processing plant approximately 800 meters below ground, to ensure optimized material handling and a reduced environmental footprint.
“Building this facility underground has been a game-changer for us. It aligns with our vision for sustainability as well as our commitment to operational excellence,” shares Stefan Eggenreich, Plant Manager at Wolfram Bergbau.
Tungsten: The essential element
The exceptional properties of tungsten – such as the high melting point, high density, and diamond-like hardness when bonded with carbon in tungsten carbide – make it indispensable in a variety of industries. From high-temperature applications in aerospace and energy to ultra-durable cutting tools in construction, tungsten is a cornerstone of high-tech innovation.
Wolfram, being part of the Sandvik Group and the only integrating tungsten melting plant outside of Asia and Russia, houses expertise spanning the entire production cycle, from mining scheelite ore to recycling tungsten-containing materials, ensuring a closed-loop supply chain. Adding to the extraction of critical resources, Wolfram focuses heavily on sustainability. The company’s ambitious goal of achieving an 80% recycling rate by 2030 underscores the dedication to conserving natural resources. Recycling centers in Austria and India are integral to this vision and the closed-loop process, transforming used drill bits and indexable inserts back into high-quality tungsten powder.
Precision engineering in action
The processing plant in Mittersill is the starting point of Wolfram’s production line. The facility is tailored to the specific challenges of underground mining with every detail, including 3D cavern modelling, reflecting the commitment to operational excellence. Key features include:
- High-performing crushing and screening technology: The plant integrates Sandvik equipment including a CJ815 jaw crusher and CS840i cone crusher, ensuring consistent particle reduction.
- Streamlined material handling: Reciprocating feeders and vibrating screens efficiently transport and process raw ore.
- Robust underground infrastructure: Heavy-duty hydraulic needle gates and a bunker system enhance safety and reliability.
Every detail of the plant’s design—from 3D cavern modeling to the strategic placement of machinery—reflects a commitment to excellence.
A milestone for the future
In March 2024, the new plant became fully operational, marking a major milestone. The project’s success is a result of meticulous planning and the collaborative efforts, with the underground location not only shortening transport routes but also enhancing safety and efficiency.
“With this investment and our partnership with Sandvik, we have laid the foundation for a future where tungsten mining is smarter, safer, and more sustainable,” concludes Eggenreich.
For more information, please contact;
Sandra Pietsch, Marketing Professional
Telephone: +49 (0) 201 1785/352
sandra.pietsch@sandvik.com