Sheffield engineering specialists win Canadian mining contract

Its engineers will design and manufacture the equipment at the firm’s headquarters in Prince of Wales Road, Darnall, Sheffield, before installation by its site engineers and technicians at the Copper Cliff Mine in Ontario in the second quarter of 2018.

The deal, which secures 40 existing jobs, is another boost for DavyMarkham, which is entering one of the most exciting periods in its long history.

After a period of foreign ownership and declining orders, it is back in British hands and strengthening its work in traditional engineering sectors while increasingly securing contracts in the nuclear and defence industries.

The Canadian mine hoist deal consolidates its relationship with global mining company Vale, one of the leading producers of nickel.

It is part of the first phase of a major project over four years to reactivate and expand the mine under the town of Copper Cliff.

Work covers the south shaft, hoists and headframe and also involves underground development to access new mining fronts approximately 5,200ft below the surface.

Gordon Scott, Mining Business Manager, said: “We are delighted to have been chosen as supplier once again for this prestigious customer.

“The production and service hoists are key for the operation of the expansion project and we are happy to be a part of what will be a significant strategic move for our customer in the expansion of Copper Cliff Mine.”

DavyMarkham Chief Executive Officer Bill Clark said: “The importance of manufacturing in the UK, and particularly in Sheffield, is bolstered by DavyMarkham’s ability to provide mine hoist solutions that meet the needs of customers such as Vale.

“We are pleased to have been awarded this contract and this reinforces the need for DavyMarkham to continue the development of our technology to ensure that we meet the future demands of customers.

“Commitment to research and development and understanding our customer needs ensures that we will be here supporting mining companies like Vale well into the future as they continue to sustain and expand their operations.”