Metso has commissioned a new 4-MW extra-large slurry pump test rig at its Test and Training Center in Sala, Sweden, expanding its capabilities in product development, performance testing and technology demonstration. The facility is among the largest of its kind globally and is now fully operational, with the first tests successfully completed.
The new test rig can test pumps at flow rates of up to 25,000 cubic metres per hour. It enables full-scale performance verification under realistic operating conditions for Metso’s current slurry pump range, including sizes up to MD900. The system is also designed to accommodate larger pump models as the company expands its product portfolio.
The testing capability is intended to help customers select suitable pumps, verify performance, improve equipment reliability and reduce operational risks in demanding mineral processing and industrial applications. Evert Lessing, Vice President of Pumps Engineering at Metso, said customers operate pumps in some of the world’s most challenging processing environments. He said the new test rig would allow the company to test all current slurry pump sizes up to MD900, develop complete pump performance curves and support future product development. Combined with the broader capabilities at Sala, the facility would help customers improve reliability and operational performance.
Sala has been a centre for slurry pump innovation and manufacturing for more than 100 years. The site brings together pumps, hydrocyclones, valves, slurry testing and digital condition monitoring. Alongside the new installation, the centre operates small, medium and large pump test rigs for product development, prototype testing and customer-specific performance validation.
The commissioning is part of Metso’s wider investment in manufacturing, testing, training, digital solutions and customer support. The company is continuing to modernise its Sala operations, including the construction of a 5,400-square-metre warehouse and delivery centre. The expansion will increase the site’s total building area from approximately 21,000 square metres to more than 26,000 square metres, improving logistics, customer service and workplace safety.
The new test rig complements Metso’s network of pump engineering, testing and development facilities in Sweden, Peru, Australia and India. Together, these locations support product development and testing across different applications and operating conditions.
Metso is also strengthening its global service and repair network to provide technical assistance throughout the equipment lifecycle. Its services combine local support with process expertise to help customers improve equipment availability and productivity.
Headquartered in Espoo, Finland, Metso supplies technologies and services to the aggregates, minerals processing and metals refining industries. The company had close to 18,000 employees across around 50 countries at the end of 2025 and reported sales of approximately €5.3 billion that year.
