Deep beneath the Myllypuro district of Tampere lies one of the world’s most unusual mining technology test facilities. Around 35 metres below ground, a six-kilometre tunnel network serves as a full-scale underground laboratory where Sandvik has spent decades testing new machinery, automation systems and artificial intelligence solutions for the mining sector.
The facility has been in operation since the 1970s and today plays a key role in the development of the next generation of autonomous mining robots and digital mining technologies.
Rock walls covered with drill holes
The underground test mine was originally established by Tamrock, which later became part of Sandvik. Its granodiorite walls are covered with thousands of drill holes accumulated through more than five decades of testing and product development.
Unlike a conventional mine, no commercial ore extraction takes place. Instead, the site functions as a controlled testing environment where new equipment can be evaluated under realistic underground conditions without disrupting production at an active mine.
AI-powered drilling robots
One of the most closely watched technologies being tested in Tampere is the autonomous drilling robot, Amelia. Unlike traditional drilling rigs, Amelia has no operator cabin and is designed to independently plan, execute and adapt drilling operations in complex underground environments.
The long-term objective is to develop mining machines capable of making operational decisions and performing tasks without direct human intervention. Instead, operators will supervise multiple machines remotely from control centres located above ground.
Testing electrification and automation
The underground facility is used for much more than autonomous drilling systems. Engineers also develop and test battery-electric mining vehicles, advanced sensor systems, digital twins and AI-based control platforms.
Sandvik uses the site to validate new technologies before commercial deployment. According to the company, having access to a dedicated underground testing environment provides significant advantages compared with conducting trials in operating mines.
€80 million investment in future technologies
During 2025, Sandvik unveiled an investment programme worth approximately €80 million aimed at developing the next generation of autonomous mining equipment in Tampere. The initiative focuses on artificial intelligence, automation, data analytics and electrification.
The company has also strengthened its robotics capabilities through acquisitions of technology firms specialising in autonomous mining systems. The goal is to create machines capable of operating independently in increasingly complex environments while improving safety for mine workers.
In October 2025, Sandvik also launched the DataDrive’31 technology programme, designed to accelerate the mining industry's digital transformation through data-driven research and product development. The company’s long-term commitment to Finland was recognised in November 2025 when Finnish President Alexander Stubb honoured Sandvik for its longstanding investments and contribution to Finnish industry.
Mining becomes increasingly automated
Developments in Tampere reflect a broader trend across the global mining industry. Research institutions and technology companies are investing heavily in autonomous systems capable of mapping tunnels, monitoring rock stability and performing tasks in hazardous environments where human workers face risks from rockfalls, dust and other dangers.
Several research programmes are also exploring collaborative robotic systems in which multiple autonomous machines work together to investigate and analyse underground environments without human presence. The combination of artificial intelligence, advanced sensors and autonomous navigation is expected to reshape how future mines are designed and operated.
Tampere emerges as a mining innovation hub
The underground test mine has evolved into one of Sandvik’s most important research and development facilities. Experts in robotics, automation, AI, electronics and mining engineering work together to develop technologies that are later deployed in mines across Sweden, Finland, Australia and Canada.
The facility is also used for customer demonstrations and international industry events, allowing mining companies to experience emerging technologies operating under real underground conditions.
Source: Yle, Sandvik, International Mining
Facts:
Location: Myllypuro, Tampere, Finland
Depth: Approximately 35–40 metres below ground
Tunnel network: Around 6 kilometres
Owner: Sandvik
Purpose: Testing mining machinery, robotics, AI and electrification technologies
Notable robot: Amelia – autonomous drilling rig without an operator cabin
History: The test mine has been in operation since the early 1970s
Future focus: Autonomous mining machines, AI-driven automation and electrified mining operations.
