Lokomo Mobile Crushing Plant: A Legacy in Aggregate Processing
Lokomo, a Finnish engineering company with roots dating back to 1888, was historically recognized for its expertise in heavy machinery, particularly in the fields of mining, forestry, and aggregate processing. Although Lokomo ceased independent operations after being acquired by Metso (now part of Metso Outotec following the 2020 merger with Outotec), its technological contributions, including mobile crushing solutions, left a lasting impact on the industry.
The Lokomo mobile crushing plant was developed during a period when modular and mobile crushing units were gaining traction in the quarrying and construction sectors. These plants were designed to offer flexibility, reduced transportation costs, and rapid deployment at remote or temporary sites. Lokomo’s mobile crushers were typically built around robust, track-mounted or wheeled chassis, integrating primary or secondary crushing units—often jaw or cone crushers—along with feeding, screening, and conveying systems.
One of the key features of Lokomo mobile crushing units was their emphasis on durability and performance in harsh Nordic conditions. The designs incorporated weather-resistant materials and components suitable for cold climates, which became an advantage in markets across Scandinavia, Russia, and other regions with challenging operating environments.
Lokomo’s mobile crushing technology was particularly known for its integration with Lokomo’s proprietary crusher designs. For instance, the company developed the Lokomo Rock Breaker System, which influenced primary crushing mechanisms used in their mobile units. These systems focused on high reduction ratios and consistent product gradation, essential for producing high-quality aggregates used in road construction and concrete production..jpg)
Following Lokomo’s integration into Metso in the 1990s, many of its crushing technologies were incorporated into Metso’s mobile plant offerings. Models such as the Metso Lokotrak series—direct descendants of Lokomo’s mobile units—were marketed across Europe and beyond. These units combined Lokomo’s mechanical designs with Metso’s global support network, enhancing reliability and serviceability.
Though the Lokomo brand no longer exists as a standalone product line, archived technical documentation, user manuals, and service bulletins from Metso confirm the historical use and specifications of Lokomo mobile crushing plants. Additionally, industry publications such as World Highways and Aggregates Manager from the 1980s and 1990s reference Lokomo units operating in infrastructure projects, particularly in Finland and Eastern Europe.
Today, used Lokomo-based mobile plants can still be found in secondary markets, often rebuilt or retrofitted with modern controls. Their continued presence is a testament to the engineering quality and rugged design that characterized Lokomo’s industrial heritage..jpg)
In summary, the Lokomo mobile crushing plant represented a significant chapter in the evolution of mobile aggregate processing. While the brand has been absorbed into larger corporate entities, its legacy endures through the performance standards and design principles that continue to influence modern crushing equipment.