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Sulphur 421 Nov-Dec 2025

Metso expands technical service centre


Metso expands technical service centre

Metso has completed the expansion of its service centre in Antofagasta, Chile, adding an additional 1,200 m² of operational capacity, totalling 4,800 m² of technical workspace. Strategically located in the La Negra industrial district, at the heart of northern Chile’s mining area, the service centre has tripled its technical-commercial agreements in recent years, becoming a key strategic partner for major mining companies in the country. Following the expansion, the centre can now repair and refurbish large-scale equipment, including HRC™ and high pressure grinding roll units, Vertimill® grinding technology, and mills for mining customers. It also supports beneficiation and dewatering technologies, such as filter plate pack service offerings. In addition, the centre provides service capabilities for mining crushers, grinding mills, screens, and car dumpers.

Within the expansion scope, Metso has installed an overhead crane with a lifting capacity of up to 140 tonnes and a high-precision vertical lathe capable of handling parts up to 5 meters in diameter. The crane, which is among the largest in South America, will be used alongside the vertical lathe to minimise equipment transport needs, decrease turnaround times, and support local service operations.

“Our service centre in Antofagasta, which has been operational since 2013, has become a benchmark in technical support for large-scale mining in northern Chile. The expansion enables us to work on multiple critical pieces of equipment, reduce lead times and improve availability for our customers. The investment, which was announced in 2023, is a testament to our commitment to staying close to our customers and providing concrete solutions to address the mining industry’s needs,” said Leonardo Osorio, Vice President, Services Project Delivery, South America, Metso.

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