A Case Study of Atlas Copco Stationary Air Compressors in the Mining Industry

— Atlas Copco Stationary Air Compressors Support Hanwang Mining’s Transition from Open-Pit to Underground Operations

Hanwang Industrial Group was established in the early 1990s and is the largest private iron ore production group in Northeast China. The company is also engaged in metallurgy, commerce, large-scale industrial bearing manufacturing, and micro-electromechanical industries. Today, Hanwang operates more than ten iron ore enterprises in Fushun, Benxi, Liaoyang, and Danjiangkou in Hubei Province. With proven reserves of several hundred million tons and promising prospective resources, Hanwang has an annual production capacity of 2 million tons of iron concentrate.

A Decade of Partnership

Atlas Copco’s cooperation with Hanwang began more than ten years ago. At that time, Hanwang relied mainly on open-pit mining and used Atlas Copco mobile air compressors almost exclusively across its operations. Over the years, the high performance, stability, and reliable after-sales service of Atlas Copco compressors have earned Hanwang’s recognition and trust.

Since 2011, as part of its transition from open-pit to underground mining, Hanwang required new solutions to meet the demands of underground operations. Atlas Copco provided customized stationary air compressor systems tailored to Hanwang’s needs. Considering the shallow mining depths of 50–150 meters, the number of work shifts, and the frequency of pneumatic tool usage, Atlas Copco’s sales engineers designed ground-based air compressor stations equipped with GA series oil-injected screw compressors.

Reliable Performance in Harsh Mining Conditions

Today, Hanwang’s major mines, including Aoniu and Shangma, operate nearly 30 Atlas Copco stationary oil-injected screw compressors, such as the GA 355, GA 250, GA 132, and GA 110.

As a global air system expert, Atlas Copco understands the diverse applications of compressed air and provides customers with the most efficient solutions. Every GA series compressor is designed, manufactured, and tested according to ISO9001, ISO14001, and ISO1217 standards. Using Atlas Copco’s latest generation of patented oil-injected screw rotors, these compressors ensure long-term, stable operation at the lowest possible running costs.

To meet the harsh conditions of mining, the GA series incorporates reinforced reliability features. They operate in ambient temperatures up to 55 °C and maintain high efficiency even in environments with heavy dust, high heat, and humidity. This sets a new benchmark for reliable performance. At the same time, the GA series also establishes a new standard in energy efficiency. With its newly designed screw element, the compressor reduces energy consumption by 5–6%, cuts operating costs, and contributes to environmental protection.

Customer Recognition

Mr. Li Gang, Manager of Hanwang Mining’s Materials Department, shared:

“In April this year, Aoniu’s underground project reached full capacity, with monthly ore output exceeding 110,000 tons — a new production record for underground mining! This achievement is inseparable from the high efficiency of Atlas Copco compressors and the customized compressed air solutions designed for our operations.”

Atlas Copco Sales Engineer Mr. Bai Yang added:

“Atlas Copco can provide the most suitable product solutions according to customer needs, helping them achieve highly efficient compressed air systems while optimizing their overall production process.”

Mr. Li also noted:

“Considering the economic stripping ratio, Hanwang will gradually shift to underground mining. Ore output is expected to increase by 10–15% annually. We will continue to rely on Atlas Copco for more professional and efficient compressed air solutions for our underground projects.”

A Shared Vision for Sustainable Mining

Aligned with Hanwang’s development goals of building a “safe mine, harmonious mine, and green mine,” Atlas Copco remains committed to delivering more professional, efficient, and energy-saving compressed air solutions.

For more than a century, Atlas Copco has been a leading global provider of industrial solutions, offering innovative, reliable, and comprehensive solutions for the mining industry. With a broad product portfolio, Atlas Copco supports every stage of mining operations and continues to be an innovation leader and trusted partner in the industry.

About Atlas Copco

Atlas Copco is a world-leading provider of sustainable productivity solutions, delivering innovative compressors, vacuum solutions, air treatment systems, construction and mining equipment, power tools, and assembly systems. The Group focuses on productivity, energy efficiency, safety, and ergonomics in both product development and services. Founded in 1873 and headquartered in Stockholm, Sweden, Atlas Copco operates in more than 180 countries and regions. In 2013, the Group reported revenues of SEK 84 billion (EUR 9.7 billion) and employed over 40,000 people worldwide.

Compressor Technique Business Area: This division provides industrial compressors, vacuum solutions, gas and process compressors, expanders, air and gas treatment equipment, and air management systems. The company leverages its global service network to deliver innovative solutions for sustainable productivity across manufacturing, oil & gas, and process industries. Its main product development and manufacturing centers are located in Belgium, Germany, the United States, China, and India.