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SSGPO, Kazakhstan’s largest iron ore production enterprise, has been a major player in the mining industry for 70 years. The Sokolovsky Mining Complex, which the company operates, was established in 1954 and is now in its final stages. Recent geopolitical changes have meant that it urgently needs to develop new markets and improve productivity. That’s where Hitachi Construction Machinery’s equipment comes in.

“We were the first in Kazakhstan to introduce Hitachi Construction Machinery’s machines. The 80-tonne dump trucks we took delivery of in 2010 were the largest vehicles in the country at the time. Since then, we have introduced even larger vehicles and excavators, which have dramatically improved our productivity,” recalls General Director of SSGPO Sergey Kuzmenko.

The Tsarskoye ore deposit, which the company is currently mining, is an important base that will shape the future of Kazakhstan’s iron ore mining industry. According to General Director of Kachary Ruda Georgiy Litovchenko, “We have 42 dump trucks and 6 excavators operating here. We plan to use this capital investment to double our annual mining output to 26 million tons.”

Although temperatures in this region can drop to -36°C in winter, Hitachi Construction Machinery’s machines continue to perform reliably in such challenging conditions. Maksat Kalambayev, manager of construction machinery, stresses that, “Hitachi Construction Machinery’s machines are made specifically for mining sites. They are comfortable, safe, and allow us to maintain a high level of productivity. That’s why we have complete confidence in them.”

Lubov Babasheva, a former taxi driver, is one of the operators working at the mine. She got the job after being scouted by Maksat.

“I thought it was a joke at first. But when I saw the enormous Hitachi Construction Machinery’s machine, my heart leapt. I knew at once that I wanted to drive it!”

This lady who now drives a dump truck with confidence is particularly fond of Hitachi Construction Machinery’s electronic power brakes. “They decelerate automatically, so they’re very safe. The controls are simpler than I thought, and it didn’t take long to get used to them.”

Alexander Cherny, an operator with over ten years of experience, also vouches for the performance of these machines.

“This braking system is certainly reliable. What’s more, for a large machine, it doesn’t require a lot of space to change direction. It almost feels like driving a regular car.” 

Another reason why Hitachi Construction Machinery enjoys such a high reputation is its speedy after-sales maintenance.

“If there’s a problem, Hitachi Construction Machinery’s service team rushes to the scene like an ambulance crew,” says Alexander. Maksat is also impressed by their ability to respond.

“Hitachi Construction Machinery provides truly outstanding maintenance. They can solve any problems on site in five to ten minutes. All of our operators agree that Hitachi Construction Machinery is the best choice. Hitachi Construction Machinery stands above the rest.”

As their words suggest, they all take great pride in their work.

“Without us, the mine wouldn’t be able to operate. Our contribution may be small, but it’s something we’re proud of,” says Alexander. Lubov chuckles and says she loves this job, too.

“I’ve always loved driving, even when I was a taxi driver. But dump trucks have　fascinated me the most! That’s why I’m planning to go to university this year to learn more technical knowledge. In the future, I want to become a car mechanic.” 

As he watches over the miners at work, Sergey is making plans to further improve productivity.

“We are planning to boost productivity even more. We will work to address two issues at the same time: extending operating hours and improving the working environment. To do this, we will work again with Hitachi Construction Machinery, our most trusted partner.”

Georgiy describes the partnership with Hitachi Construction Machinery as follows.

“We have a long history of working with Hitachi Construction Machinery, so we can be confident about the future. Our relationship is more than just that of a client and supplier—we are partners who grow together.”

They will continue to take on the challenge of developing the mining industry and securing the future of the local community.