LKAB Berg and Betong planned for a hall to store concrete material, protecting it from moisture before it’s sent to the concrete factory. They chose a fabric structure over a conventional one due to its rapid establishment time and its ability to be easily customized according to their request to set up the hall on a concrete base, using L-supports. This was desired to accommodate more tonnage and simplify dumping with dump trucks without risking damage to roof trusses or other structures. The new concrete storage area encompasses 3,675 square meters and measures 35x105x6 meters (Width x Length x Height).

There are several providers of fabric structures, and we find that Hallbyggarna Jonsereds works the best.

Read the interview below with Leif Krekula, responsible for crushing and contracting at LKAB Berg & Betong, about his experience with the delivery and the final product.

Why did you choose Hallbyggarna Jonsereds as the supplier?

“We had received several quotes that we reviewed. There are several providers of fabric covered buildings, and we find that Hallbyggarna Jonsereds works the best. As we are part of the LKAB group, which uses multiple suppliers, we discuss some projects among ourselves. We received positive feedback about Hallbyggarna and felt that we had a good agreement on the hall’s function and price.”

Now that you’ve had the hall in place for a while, are you satisfied with the delivery?

“It has stood for a full winter and has withstood wind gusts of over 30 meters per second very well. The concrete material that we store in the hall has a much more consistent moisture content than before. Previously, we had an outdoor storage in a climate with snow nine months a year. The more consistent moisture content is highly appreciated by the concrete factory.

Another significant advantage we’ve experienced is that we cause less dust compared to before. The stored material ranges from 0.01 to 4 mm in size, causing dust during strong winds. This previously led to dust blowing over a lake directly into the city of Kiruna when the wind direction was unfavorable. So, the new hall has brought about significant environmental benefits.

In summary, everything has gone very well. Our project leader who was in contact with you during the project is very satisfied with the foresight you provided, allowing us to prepare for incoming deliveries. Everything was delivered on time, and you addressed the functionalities we requested. A truly successful project!”

Is there anything you would like to add?

“Yes, we had an incident that you resolved very well. A truck driver was a bit hasty when exiting the hall and didn’t lower the truck bed completely after dumping materials. This caused the truck bed to hit the steel frame in the door opening, resulting in damage. We contacted you, and you were able to promptly send materials and repair the frame. Very good service, I would say!”

We thank Leif and LKAB Berg and Betong for the trust in delivering another hall to the Swedish mining industry.