NMDC Opens $18 Million R&D Centre for Sustainable Mining in Hyderabad

India’s government-run iron ore miner NMDC Limited has unveiled a state-of-the-art research and development centre in Hyderabad, marking a significant investment of $18 million. This new facility, aimed at fostering innovation in mineral processing and sustainable steel-making technologies, underscores NMDC’s commitment to advancing India’s mining sector.

Situated in the southern region of Hyderabad across eight acres, the R&D centre is poised to lead the digital transformation of NMDC, the country’s largest iron ore producer. According to a statement released by the company on Wednesday, June 19, the centre aims to build a sustainable ecosystem by integrating cutting-edge technologies at its core.

Key features of the R&D centre include advanced laboratories equipped with state-of-the-art instruments. These facilities are manned by experts focused on developing sustainable mineral technology and ore beneficiation processes. Notably, the centre boasts an automated mineral analyser and an automated fusion bead-based X-ray fluorescence (XRF) analyser. These instruments ensure precise and efficient characterisation of various minerals, crucial for enhancing operational efficiency and product quality.

Moreover, the centre includes a dedicated facility for pelletization studies. This aspect is particularly significant as it generates essential data for the setup of commercial pellet plants. The insights gained from these studies are expected to bolster NMDC’s in-house capabilities and meet growing demands within the sector.

In addition to advancing technological capabilities, NMDC’s R&D centre emphasizes sustainable practices in mining. By integrating environmental considerations into its research and operations, NMDC aims to set new benchmarks for responsible mining practices in India.

The establishment of this R&D centre aligns with India’s broader strategic goals of boosting domestic mineral processing capabilities and reducing dependency on imports. It reflects NMDC’s proactive approach towards leveraging innovation to enhance productivity and sustainability across its operations.

Commenting on the inauguration of the centre, NMDC highlighted its commitment to supporting India’s industrial growth through technological innovation. The company emphasized that the R&D centre represents a pivotal step towards achieving operational excellence and reinforcing its leadership in the mining and steel sectors.

The launch of NMDC’s R&D centre in Hyderabad is expected to have ripple effects across the mining industry. By pioneering advancements in mineral processing and sustainable steel-making technologies, NMDC aims to not only strengthen its own capabilities but also contribute to the overall growth and sustainability of India’s mining sector.

Looking ahead, NMDC plans to leverage the insights gained from its R&D initiatives to expand its operational footprint and enhance its competitive edge in both domestic and international markets. The company remains committed to driving innovation and sustainability across all facets of its business, from mining operations to environmental stewardship and community engagement.

the inauguration of NMDC’s $18 million R&D centre in Hyderabad marks a significant milestone in India’s mining sector. It underscores NMDC’s commitment to technological advancement, sustainability, and leadership in mineral processing and steel-making technologies.