Tungsten’s recent price spike, driven partly by defence-sector demand, is sharply increasing input costs for tungsten carbide drill bits that control development and production metres in both surface and underground mines. Sandvik, a major supplier of cemented carbide tools and top hammer and down-the-hole drilling systems, is being leaned on by miners to secure stable carbide supply and manage volatility in raw tungsten feedstock. The situation is likely to influence bit selection, drilling economics, and mine planning where high penetration rates and bit life are critical.

Sweden’s Land and Environmental Court has granted LKAB an environmental permit for continued and expanded iron ore mining at Malmberget in Gällivare, securing the regulatory basis for the 135‑year‑old underground operation. The decision enables LKAB to progress its long‑term transformation plans in the Gällivare industrial area, including higher production volumes and associated processing capacity linked to its transition towards fossil‑free iron ore products. Geotechnical and mine planners can now proceed with updated life‑of‑mine designs and ground control strategies under the new permit conditions.

Forsee Power is partnering with Wabtec to integrate its advanced battery systems into Wabtec’s battery-electric locomotive platforms, extending the technology first proven in Wabtec’s 2021 debut of the world’s first battery-electric freight loco. The collaboration targets heavy-haul freight applications, where high-energy, modular battery packs must withstand repeated deep cycling, vibration and thermal loads typical of long consists and harsh climates. For mine operators, this signals accelerating availability of battery-electric mainline and in-pit rail haulage options with zero local diesel emissions and lower ventilation demand.