HIGH PROFILE
The next generation LEOPOLD ® advanced compact bucketwheel excavator
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The world of bulk materials handling is changing , with some major exits by traditional players . But new and nimble innovators like MCI are emerging , building on existing depth of experience to offer a full spectrum solution . Paul Moore caught up with the company
MCI Mining Construction International GmbH is an existing but rapidly growing supplier of mining and bulk material handling equipment , based in Graz , Austria and with an additional office in Essen , Germany focused on the new equipment business . It is proudly carrying forward a legacy built on over 60 years of expertise in servicing equipment and systems in this market into new horizons , including new equipment supply . Originally established as a family business , it says its approach blends the experience of seasoned professionals with the innovative mindset of the younger generation , ensuring sustainability and growth for decades to come . We spoke to CEO Alfred Topf and Georg Leitner , Head of Engineering .
Q Can you give some insight first into MCI ’ s background and heritage in bulk materials handling ? A Our story began in 1962 with a focus on heavy earth movement and mass transportation . This expertise led us to Austria ' s largest open-pit coal mining operation , where we specialised in handling and maintaining large-scale continuous mining equipment . As governmental regulations gradually led to the closure of these mines , we extended the company field of expertise and focussed on all the continuous mining equipment , fully refurbished and prepared for further operation in the global market . This transition cemented our reputation as experts in the field of refurbishment and relocation of mining machinery since over 20 years now . Our origins in servicing complex machinery expanded over time . From assembly and commissioning to programming for major players such as Sandvik and FLSmidth , we built a reputation for reliability .
As we took on systems like bulk conveyor systems and mobile conveyor bridges , we honed our engineering capabilities in-house , expanding our portfolio to include conceptual and detailed design .
Q How has the latest strategic move to building new systems come into being ? A In 2023 , significant realignments in the industry prompted us to make a strategic addition to our portfolio . With the exit of two major OEMs from the market , we capitalised on our strong relationships with former OEM professionals , welcoming seasoned experts from thyssenkrupp , FLSmidth , and other key organisations . Through this targeted expansion , we were able to undertake the planning and design engineering and construction from quarrying equipment to large-scale mining & material handling systems from pit to yard to port . This transition was based on a clear strategy and many years of experience in the mining business . By integrating expertise
Alfred Topf , MCI CEO across all aspects of mining operations - mine planning , feasibility studies , full engineering capabilities from conceptual , mechanical and structural design to electrical and instrumentation design and flow analysis , logistics , and having all project execution experiences from engineering , fabrication , logistics , quality to ensure seamless project delivery until turnkey installation by giving the full service and aftermarket support – we achieved the capability to deliver complete system solutions . Our service legacy remains a cornerstone , providing robust aftermarket support , from spare & wear parts , complex revamps and upgrades , inspections & audits , all kind of field supports from repairs to operation and maintenance support and training programmes . Another major part of our business has been looking internationally for used equipment and being able to refurbish it to a high standard and redeploy it at a new project . A lot of this has involved bucketwheel excavators , so we are very experienced in their design and operation – and this in turn has led to our latest solution – becoming a new build OEM with the LEOPOLD ® advanced bucketwheel excavator . We have good relationships and cooperation agreements with major fabricators with the right quality standards behind us as well .
Q What synergies are there between the new build offering and the already well established servicing and refurbishment business ? A The strategic approach of combining used but upgraded and refurbished machinery with new build equipment requires the expertise of mine planning with the engineering capabilities of both , the MCI experts in close relationship with our worldwide clients . The advantages are obvious – a lower CAPEX & OPEX ; a high degree of sustainability over a mine ’ s lifetime ; plus improved efficiency and proven operation ability
Georg Leitner , MCI Head of Engineering
28 International Mining | FEBRUARY 2025