Normet opens Pirkkala centre for autonomous underground-mining technology

A new technology centre has opened in the Huovi industrial area of Pirkkala, focusing on autonomy, robotics, software development and other digital technologies designed to make underground mining safer, more productive and more sustainable. The centre, opened by Normet, expands the company's research, product development and testing capabilities as mines go deeper and remote and autonomous operations become more important. In a press release, CEO Ed Santamaria called the investment an important milestone that strengthens Normet's position at the forefront of underground-mining innovation. More than 95 percent of Normet's revenue comes from abroad. The company serves customers from about 50 sites in 30 countries and manufactures equipment in Finland, Chile and India. Pirkkala was chosen for its strong Tampere region technology ecosystem, including an internationally significant competence centre for electrified work machines and mining technology, broad research networks, Tampere University, available skilled labour and good international connections, Tamperelainen reports.

The opening builds on Tampere's growing profile as a technology hub, including activity in defence and dual-use technologies earlier coverage.