Since 2009, QME has been a trusted mining contractor at Boliden Tara Mines, one of Europe’s largest underground zinc mines. Over the past 15+ years, QME has delivered multiple major contracts across mine development, rehabilitation, infrastructure installation, shotcrete production, underground logistics and the strategic Tara Deep expansion.
Working in an operating underground mine requires exceptional planning, safety standards and engineering expertise. QME has consistently delivered complex projects while maintaining production schedules and supporting the long-term future of the mine.
01
Development
QME has successfully completed multiple underground development contracts for Boliden Tara Mines, with the largest being the SWEX #4 Development Contract.
The project involved:
The scope included every stage of underground development:
QME also excavated and constructed four underground raise-bore chambers, completing the shotcreting, bolting, concrete pads and associated water infrastructure required to support future mining operations.
By providing a complete in-house contracting solution, QME enabled Boliden to accelerate access to new ore bodies without disrupting existing production activities.
02
Refurbishment & auxiliary
Working within extremely confined operating mine roadways required bespoke lifting equipment designed and manufactured by QME specifically for the project.
03
Tara Deep
As Boliden continues investing in the future of Tara Mines, the Tara Deep Project represents one of the most significant developments in extending the mine’s operational life.
The Tara Deep deposit is located approximately 1 kilometre southeast of the existing mine and contains substantial additional zinc and lead resources that will support future production.
Working at depths approaching 1 kilometre below surface, the Tara Deep project requires experienced mining personnel, specialised equipment and precise engineering planning.
QME’s extensive knowledge of the existing Tara operation positions the company as a key contractor supporting the long-term development of one of Europe’s most important underground mining operations.
04
Surface
The surface contract includes:
The plant now produces approximately:
with product delivered underground on demand.
These materials are used for:
This innovative approach received environmental recognition for reducing the mine’s operational footprint while improving material quality and availability.
05
Outcome
For more than 15 years, QME has remained one of Boliden Tara Mines’ principal mining contractors, delivering a broad range of underground and surface services that continue to support production, infrastructure and future mine expansion.
Through a combination of engineering expertise, specialist equipment and highly experienced underground mining teams, QME continues to play a key role in the safe, efficient and sustainable development of one of Europe’s leading underground mining operations.
