We invite you to read the report from the spring visit to the “Konin” lignite mine.
On March 28, 2025, a unique event organized by Zrobotyzowani took place – a photo walk through the technical facilities of the “Konin” lignite mine. Thanks to the hospitality of PAK KWB Konin S.A., we spent a day in Kleczew filled with inspiration, industrial landscapes, and photographic challenges that will remain in the participants’ memories for a long time.
TAM and Back Again
At 10:00 AM, we met with the event participants at the water tower in front of the Konin train station. After a brief introduction to the trip plan, distributing reflective vests, and verifying tickets, we set off by coach towards Kleczew – the heart of the mining world.
Our industrial adventure began in a unique way – traveling in a vintage TAM bus, which added a nostalgic charm to the entire event. This classic vehicle, with its distinctive design and the atmosphere of past decades, perfectly matched the tour’s vibe. The sound of the engine and the interior full of details from the past transported us back in time, creating an unforgettable start to a day full of experiences. The TAM bus not only provided comfortable transportation but also became one of the participants’ favorite photography subjects, as they enthusiastically captured its unique character.
Before entering the mine, we were welcomed by the Chief Mining Engineer, Mr. Marcin Kaźmierczak, who introduced first-time visitors to the history of the site and the individual lignite deposits. The tour began after checking the attendance list and discussing the most important safety rules.
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Mechanical Workshops – Steel and Precision
The first stop on our tour was the mine’s mechanical workshops, which once again impressed us with the rawness and power of technology. We were once again hosted by Mr. Maciej Fórmanek, who shared all the technical details about the machines’ operations and allowed us to peek behind the scenes of each workstation. During a short break for the workers, we had the chance to take a closer look at selected machines, while for the rest of the tour, we observed numerous milling machines, lathes, and presses in their precise operation. Participants had the opportunity to capture every detail through their lenses – from sparks flying through the air to the monumental machines. The atmosphere was filled with focus, and every frame told a story of harmony between technology and human labor.
Electrical Workshops – Energy in Motion
The next stop on the program was the electrical workshops, which we visited for only the second time as Zrobotyzowani! Massive motors, cables, and devices powering the mine’s conveyor belts created an incredible atmosphere. Participants had the chance to observe repair and maintenance processes and capture the rawness of this place in their photos. Every detail – from the powerful motors to the precise tools – served as inspiration for creating unique images. Unfortunately, it was here that we most clearly noticed the decline of the mine’s operations – we no longer met all the kind workers we had the chance to talk to in October 2024.
Our visit to the electrical workshops concluded with an inspiring discussion about the future of hybrid, electric, and hydrogen drives in vehicles – we extend our heartfelt thanks to the host of the electrical workshops, Chief Electrical Foreman Adam Roszak, for this discussion.
Kleczew Transfer Point – The Heart of the Mine
Next, we walked to the Kleczew Transfer Point. The weather was perfect for walking and taking photos – despite earlier forecasts of cooler temperatures, the last weekend of March surprised us with sunshine! The Transfer Point, where lignite is reloaded and stored, impressed both regular Zrobotyzowani tour participants and first-time visitors with its scale and operational precision. The opportunity to observe the wagon unloading process was a real treat for technology enthusiasts. We also had the chance to discuss the properties of lignite and its specifics compared to hard coal. Everyone realized that such a sight will soon become a thing of the past when the last ton of coal is extracted from the mine.
Bucket-Wheel Stacker-Reclaimer – A Giant in Focus
Although we didn’t have the chance to board the ŁZKS-500.29,5 bucket-wheel stacker-reclaimer this time, its monumental silhouette left a lasting impression. This technological colossus, dominating the landscape of the Transfer Point, amazed us with its scale and the precision of its construction. Participants enthusiastically photographed every detail – from the massive wheel of the machine to the intricate conveyor belt system, which seemed to function daily in perfect harmony. The ŁZKS is not only a symbol of industrial power but also an inspiration for anyone who can see the beauty in the rawness of technology. Even from the outside, the machine told its story – about its indispensable role in the mine’s operations.
A Return Full of Surprises
As it turned out, the visit to the Transfer Point wasn’t the final stop on our tour. Thanks to the hospitality of our hosts, we had the chance to experience something truly extraordinary – boarding the “Dolores” bucket-wheel excavator, one of the most impressive machines that once operated in the mine. Participants could take a close look at its construction and learn about its operation and role in the lignite extraction process. Walking along the working platforms and touching the elements of this powerful machine was an unforgettable experience. This surprise added even more excitement and industrial charm to our tour.
With some extra time in our schedule, we spontaneously headed to a viewpoint offering a panorama of the Jóźwin open-pit mine – the same one we had seen from atop the “Dolores” excavator. This vast landscape, shaped by powerful machines and human labor, was breathtaking. From above, we admired the massive excavations that, in just a few years, will transform into a huge lake. The Jóźwin viewpoint was the perfect conclusion to our tour, allowing us to see the mine from a completely new perspective.
After an intense day full of impressions and photographic challenges, participants returned to Konin aboard the TAM bus. On the bus, they had the chance to share their experiences and review the captured shots. Some participants likely went straight to rest, as the next day they were also taking part in another tour – exploring the mine’s railway facilities: The Secrets of Mining Railways.
Find out where the legendary Konińskie Crocodiles are hiding!
We thank all participants for the time spent together and invite you to join us on more technical journeys in the future! ⚡⚡
Sounds like a great day? Check out where we’re heading next:
The Zrobotyzowani team and all enthusiasts of the “Konin” lignite mine hope this wasn’t the last visit to KWB Konin. We extend our heartfelt thanks to the event hosts – this event wouldn’t have been possible without the fantastic cooperation with PAK KWB Konin S.A. and PAK Górnictwo Sp. z o.o. A big thank you goes to the hosts of the workshops in Kleczew – the management of PAK KWB Konin S.A. and everyone involved in organizing this event, especially Mr. Marcin Kaźmierczak for his guidance and the knowledge he shared.
Photos by: Karol Lubaczewski.
Report by: Paulina Kozłowska.
