KGHM
Fibox has provided the mine with products for power supply to the ventilation systems, AC devices, wastewater pumping systems, lighting and repair equipment.
Industry
Mining
Location
Poland
Business Line
Enclosures & cabinets
About the company
The copper mine is operated by KGHM, one of the world’s leading mining companies and a major producer of copper and silver. The company employs more than 34,000 people and controls over 40 million tonnes of copper ore reserves globally.
Located in south-western Poland, the mine is part of one of Europe’s largest copper ore deposit areas and plays a significant role in KGHM’s international mining operations.
Challenges
The environment of the mine is challenging; humidity levels often reach 90% while temperatures range from 30 to 40 Celsius. The salinity levels are extremely high, and the atmosphere contains hydrogen sulfide. These factors created a demanding environment for electrical systems and equipment.
The mine environment presented extreme operating conditions, including humidity levels reaching 90%, temperatures between 30–40°C, and high salinity.
The presence of hydrogen sulfide in the atmosphere increased the risk of corrosion and material degradation. The enclosure solutions needed to provide strong resistance against corrosive substances and long-term environmental exposure.
The electrical infrastructure used for ventilation systems, wastewater pumping, lighting, and repair equipment required highly durable enclosures capable of protecting sensitive components in continuous underground operation.
Previously used stainless steel products faced limitations in the harsh mining environment.
Our Solutions
Non-corrosive ARCA cabinet
Fibox has provided the mine with products for power supply to the ventilation systems, AC devices, wastewater pumping systems, lighting and repair equipment. The mine uses ARCA cabinets, which are the first plastic/non-corrosive products approved for underground use.
All devices in the mine are fitted with Schneider Electric, ABB, Mennekes and PCE components.
SPAKOP Częstochowa, an OEM delivering to KGHM, was our client who manufactured and delivered the devices to KGHM.
Product made for harsh conditions
Given the harsh environment of the mine, Fibox products are the best choice because of the mechanical resistance, non-corrosive materials and competitive price compared to the previously used stainless steel products.
Key takeaways
Extreme underground operation conditions
Mining operations take place in highly challenging environments, with humidity reaching up to 90%, temperatures between 30–40°C, and high salinity levels. The presence of hydrogen sulfide further increases corrosion risks and creates harsh conditions for electrical systems.
High demands on electrical infrastructure
Critical systems such as ventilation, wastewater pumping, lighting, and maintenance equipment require highly durable and reliable protection. ARCA cabinets provided the ideal solution, offering robust performance and long-term reliability. As the first plastic, non-corrosive enclosures approved for underground use, they are specifically designed to withstand harsh environments while ensuring continuous protection of critical infrastructure.
Products used in KGHM mining project
Fibox offers a wide range of durable enclosure and cabinet solutions for extreme weather conditions. In this project, KGHM used products from ARCA range.