75000 meters of cable bolts

The background to the increased volume is that LKAB has decided to reinforce the entire “Western field” to prevent and avoid future collapses. In 2022, a collapse occurred in the production area, which was a contributing factor leading to the increased rock reinforcement.

“Since we were already working with installation of cable bolts in Malmberget, both personnel and machines were in place but on a smaller scale. Now we have quickly ramped up to a completely different level to help LKAB”, says Johan Skarin, Bergteamet’s Site Manager in Malmberget.

More employees and larger machine fleet

The tenfold volume increase means more employees and machines. Before the expansion, Bergteamet had a bolt rig and a cable rig in Malmberget. Since this summer, Bergteamet has expanded the park to three cable rigs and a drilling rig. A new cable rig, Epiroc Cabletec, has also been ordered.

“We have also doubled the workforce to about twenty employees”, says Johan Skarin.

Installing seven-meter bolts

The work is carried out carefully and with longer bolts than before.

“Usually, we install bolts that are three meters. To achieve the best results considering the rock conditions, we now use cable bolts that are seven meters and are installed in the ceiling from springline to springline”, explains Johan.

“We drill, fill with cement, and insert the cable. When it has set, we mount a plate and a lock that pre-tensions against the rock. The plating is an extensive job. To maintain a good pace, we hire a subcontractor to help us with it”, he continues.

Fifteen years of experience

Bergteamet has long experience with reinforcement.

“We have been installing cable bolts for LKAB since 2008. This means that we have built up a long experience and created effective methods. This allows us to work quickly and safely, which means a lot to the customer. We also have a good and well-maintained machinery park for the purpose, even our old faithful from 2010 is producing at full capacity”, says Johan.