Epiroc Capital Markets Day Signals Shift to Brownfield Automation – What It Means for Mine Operators Evaluating Equipment Upgrades

Why Epiroc's pivot toward brownfield retrofits and deep automation is a critical signal for mine operators and quarry owners planning their next equipment investment

On June 8, 2026, Epiroc hosted its Capital Markets Day in Örebro, Sweden, outlining its strategic direction for the coming years. While the company reaffirmed its financial goals and near-term market outlook, three signals stood out for mine operators and equipment buyers worldwide. First, Epiroc is extending its Deep Automation capabilities into underground drilling and ground support—moving beyond haulage into the most challenging parts of the mining cycle. Second, the company is placing greater emphasis on brownfield retrofit solutions, helping existing mines upgrade their operations without replacing entire fleets. Third, Epiroc announced the deployment of its LinkOA autonomous platform at a Heidelberg Materials quarry in Western Australia, extending automation into the aggregates sector. For mining companies, quarry operators, and equipment buyers, these signals point to a clear opportunity: the global market for mine automation upgrades is expanding, and the shift toward brownfield retrofits opens new possibilities for cost-effective productivity gains. At OCP Mechanical Company, with over 40 years of manufacturing experience, we supply a comprehensive range of crushing and screening equipment—including PE Series jaw crushers, HST Series cone crushers, and VSI 6X sand making machines—designed to help operators achieve higher performance through targeted upgrades and modernisation, all at factory-direct prices.

Deep Automation extends beyond haulage – a sign that autonomous solutions are moving deeper into the mine

Epiroc's expansion of its Deep Automation portfolio to include underground drilling and bolting represents a significant step forward for underground mining operations. Previously focused on loaders and trucks, the Deep Automation concept now supports customers at every stage of their automation journey, from remote operations to higher levels of autonomy. The company reports that Deep Automation for drilling can enable up to 30 per cent faster mine development rates and up to 70 per cent shorter stoping cycles. For mine operators, this signals that automation is no longer confined to haulage—it is becoming an integrated part of the entire mining cycle. The implications for equipment buyers are clear: as automation spreads across more mining processes, the demand for compatible, upgrade-ready equipment will increase. For operators running conventional equipment, this presents an opportunity to modernise without replacing entire fleets. OCP Mechanical's crushing and screening equipment is designed with upgradeability in mind, enabling operators to integrate modern control systems and automation features as their operations evolve. All product specifications, including capacity and power ratings, are continuously updated; for the latest parameters, please consult our online customer service.

Brownfield retrofits – a growing priority for equipment suppliers worldwide

At the Capital Markets Day, Epiroc CEO Helena Hedblom noted that customers are increasingly looking at brownfield expansion and upgrade projects as a way to increase production without the capital outlay of greenfield developments. This shift reflects a broader industry trend: as mining and quarrying operations face tighter budgets and longer permitting timelines for new projects, the focus is turning to getting more value from existing assets. For equipment suppliers, this means that retrofit and upgrade solutions are becoming as important as new equipment sales. Operators are looking for ways to increase throughput, improve efficiency, and reduce downtime without the cost and disruption of a full plant replacement. At OCP Mechanical, we understand this need. Our PE Series and PEW Series jaw crushers, HST Series cone crushers, and VSI 6X sand making machines are designed with modular components and upgrade paths that allow operators to increase capacity, improve product quality, and reduce energy consumption without replacing the entire crusher. By investing in targeted upgrades, operators can achieve significant productivity gains at a fraction of the cost of new equipment. Prices are for reference only and are subject to change based on configuration and market conditions.

LinkOA enters the aggregates sector – automation is coming to quarries

Epiroc's deployment of its LinkOA autonomous platform at a Heidelberg Materials quarry in Western Australia marks the first application of the company's autonomous haulage technology in the aggregates sector. The proof-of-concept project will demonstrate how automation can be applied in mid-scale quarry operations, where design variability and more complex conditions have traditionally limited adoption. For quarry operators, this is a significant development. It signals that autonomous haulage, which has already proven its value in large-scale mining operations, is becoming accessible to smaller, more varied operations. The project focuses on validating safe mixed-fleet operation, improved haulage efficiency, reduced operator dependency, and system performance across varying conditions. While autonomous haulage may not be an immediate priority for every quarry operator, the trend toward automation in the aggregates sector is clear. As the technology matures and becomes more cost-effective, operators who have invested in modern, upgrade-ready equipment will be better positioned to adopt these solutions. OCP Mechanical's mobile and stationary crushing plants are designed with control systems that can integrate with broader plant automation, enabling operators to take advantage of automation technologies as they become available.

What the shift to brownfield retrofits means for mine and quarry operators

For mine and quarry operators, the signals from Epiroc's Capital Markets Day are particularly relevant. Many operations have a vast installed base of mining and aggregate processing equipment, much of which is approaching the end of its optimal service life. The shift toward brownfield retrofits, combined with the push for automation and digitalisation, means that operators have a significant opportunity to upgrade their existing equipment to achieve higher productivity, lower operating costs, and improved safety. The global trend toward automation and retrofit solutions creates a clear opportunity for cost-effective modernisation. By upgrading key components—such as crushers, screens, and control systems—operators can achieve significant improvements without the capital outlay of a full plant replacement. At OCP Mechanical, we support operators in this transition by offering a comprehensive range of upgrade solutions for our PE Series jaw crushers, HST Series cone crushers, and VSI 6X sand making machines. Our engineering team can assess your existing equipment and recommend targeted upgrades to improve performance and reduce operating costs. By embracing the brownfield retrofit trend, operators can stay competitive in an increasingly automated industry.

Sample upgrade comparison (For reference only)

All figures and recommendations are for reference only and are continuously updated. For the latest parameters, please consult our online customer service. Prices are for reference only and are subject to change based on configuration and market conditions. Actual results may vary depending on feed characteristics, operating conditions, and maintenance practices. OCP Mechanical reserves the right to update technical data and pricing without prior notice.

Why OCP Mechanical is your partner for equipment modernisation and upgrades

With over 40 years of manufacturing experience, OCP Mechanical combines engineering excellence with a deep understanding of the global mining and aggregate sectors. We are a factory-direct supplier, meaning you avoid the markups charged by dealers and intermediaries. Our PE Series jaw crushers, HST Series cone crushers, and VSI 6X sand making machines are built with high-quality components and are designed to accommodate upgrades—enabling operators to increase production, improve efficiency, and reduce operating costs without the expense of a full equipment replacement. We provide comprehensive after-sales support, including spare parts availability, technical assistance, and on-site training. Our logistics team has extensive experience shipping to global destinations, ensuring timely delivery of equipment and parts. We are committed to helping you achieve efficient, productive crushing that supports your business growth.

Conclusion – Upgrade your equipment and capture the brownfield opportunity

Epiroc's Capital Markets Day signals a clear industry direction: automation is expanding into new areas, brownfield retrofits are becoming a priority, and the aggregates sector is beginning to adopt autonomous solutions. For mine and quarry operators, this represents a significant opportunity to upgrade existing equipment and achieve higher productivity without the capital cost of a full replacement. OCP Mechanical offers the equipment, expertise, and factory-direct pricing you need to succeed. Our online customer service team is available 24/7 to provide free consultation, technical data, and a customised quotation for your operation. Click the chat button now – let us help you modernise your equipment and build a more efficient, productive operation.