Astec Australia has announced an expansion of its dealer agreement with Mineral Processing Solutions (MPS) to include construction materials product lines in Queensland, Victoria and Tasmania.
MPS will supply Astec material solutions, fixed and modular plant, equipment, parts and service throughout Australia.
Under the terms of the new agreement, MPS will distribute all Astec fixed and modular crushing, fixed screening and washing equipment and systems, as well as material handling (Telestack) and breaker technology (BTI) products to all states and territories.
The move represents a significant development in the relationship between the two companies.
According to Astec regional managing director David Smale, Astec and OPS Group (MPS’ parent company) have forged a strong partnership over the years.
“In June, we announced that MPS would take over distribution of Astec fixed and modular equipment in NSW, with other eastern states to follow later,” Smale said.
“It is testament to the strength and success of the relationship between Astec and MPS that those plans have now been brought forward.”
Image: Astec
Smale said the partnership has also delivered significant benefits to customers.
“This new network will enable us to deliver parts more efficiently, reducing downtime and enhancing the operational efficiency of businesses,” he said.
“The MPS team’s extensive local market knowledge and experience in mineral processing – supported by Astec’s innovative technologies and manufacturing capability – has made MPS the perfect partner to deliver outstanding products and service.”
MPS already has a strong presence on the east coast with well-stocked depots in Goodna (QLD), Rutherford (NSW) and Laverton (VIC), and experienced local sales and service teams able to provide a quick response to customers. Without forgetting Darwin, Perth and Adelaide branches bringing multiple options to the mix.
Smale said by combining Astec’s expertise in supplying high-quality equipment with MPS’ extensive distribution network, it is creating a robust channel that guarantees better service or exceeding relationships and expectations across the nation.
“I’m delighted to be making this announcement today and look forward to the positive impact this collaboration will have on our customers working alongside MPS,” he said.
“Such synergy will continue to strengthen our market presence but also set highest standard for service in building the infrastructure of Australia.”
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The Weir Group, a global mining technology leader, has been awarded a £25m ($48.2 million) contract to provide sustainable solutions to the next phase of OCP Group’s Benguerir and Louta greenfield phosphate projects in Morocco.
The order, which includes the company’s WARMAN slurry pump and CAVEX hydrocyclone technology, will support the continued construction of the Louta project and the trebling of production from the Benguerir project.
Weir has previously provided similar separation and de-sliming solutions also based on its WARMAN and CAVEX technology.
The Benguerir expansion will start up following the initial phase of the project which has scheduled first production in 2024, with an estimated total mine life of more than 100 years.
“We are pleased to have secured this major contract. It represents a strong endorsement of our WARMAN and CAVEX ranges that provide energy efficient separation at scale to support our customer’s productivity and sustainability goals,” Weir chief executive officer Jon Stanton said.
“Along with our industry-leading solutions, we promise our customers world class service; our local team are delighted to continue to deliver for OCP as they commission the initial phase at Benguerir and look to expand these exciting projects.”
After commissioning of the equipment, aftermarket support will be provided via Weir technical experts from the company’s Moroccan service centre, which is located close to the projects.
Founded in 1871, The Weir Group is one of the world’s leading engineering businesses with a purpose to make its mining and infrastructure customers’ operations more sustainable and efficient.
Weir’s highly engineered technology aims to enable critical resources to be produced using less energy, water and waste while reducing customers’ total cost of ownership.
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ANDRITZ is finding innovative ways to help mining companies be more sustainable in their operations.
As the mining industry explores ways to enable greater operational sustainability, effective tailings management has become a major focal point.
As one of the leading companies in industrial separation technologies, ANDRITZ offers a suite of advanced tailings solutions designed to optimise water recovery, reduce environmental impact, enable dry-stacking solutions, and enhance overall operational efficiency.
ANDRITZ’s tailings offerings encompass a wide range of products designed to cover every aspect of the tailings management process. The company’s solutions extend from sedimentation and dewatering to filtration and water recovery.
“Our broad portfolio for tailings treatment covers the full solid–liquid separation process, including decanter centrifuges, heavy-duty belt presses, hyperbaric and vacuum disc filters, vacuum belt filters, and filter presses,” ANDRITZ regional manager – Australia and New Zealand Paul Stevens said.
These solutions aim to maximise water recovery, reduce storage volumes, and provide safer disposal options for processed tailings.
Among ANDRITZ’s many products, the company highlights its heavy-duty belt press CPF-Q and robust filter presses as key solutions for tailings dewatering.
“Our heavy-duty belt press CPF-Q is a reliable and robust machine that is simple and cost-efficient to operate,” Stevens said. “The CPF-Q is a solution for high throughput tailings dewatering, achieving a low residual moisture with low operating costs.”
Additionally, the excellent water recovery rates of ANDRITZ’s filter presses, a technology known for delivering high filtration rates even in harsh conditions, contribute to reducing water consumption and improving sustainability.
The company’s decanter centrifuges also play a crucial role, especially for operations dealing with slurries that have fine particle size distributions. These machines, with high-speed design capabilities and large diameter-to-length ratios, are particularly effective in handling high volumes while enhancing recovery rates.
Innovation is at the core of ANDRITZ’s strategy in tailings management. The company’s research and development (R&D) efforts in the field of tailings management are focused on three primary objectives: enhanced water recovery, sustainability, and automation and digitalisation.
ANDRITZ is actively developing technologies that maximise water extraction from tailings, which is vital for regions where water scarcity is a significant issue. The company is also exploring ways to reuse processed tailings in applications like construction materials, further promoting sustainable mining practices.
Automation and digitalisation are becoming an increasingly important part of ANDRITZ’s solutions.
“We’re working on advanced monitoring systems and AI-supported process controls that can optimise tailings management in real-time,” ANDRITZ industry director – minerals and mining Mario Gerards said. “This digital shift not only enhances operational efficiency but also improves safety and reduces downtime.”
Mining environments are notoriously tough, and equipment longevity is a major concern. ANDRITZ addresses this by utilising high-quality, wear-resistant materials in its designs and offering comprehensive maintenance programs.
“Our solutions are engineered with robust construction to withstand continuous operation in the harshest conditions,” Gerards said.
ANDRITZ’s commitment to providing comprehensive global service support ensures that equipment remains in peak condition, minimising operational disruptions.
And the company’s focus on reducing energy consumption through optimised designs adds another layer of sustainability to its offerings. By delivering a complete range of solutions from dewatering to water treatment, ANDRITZ enables streamlined operations that maximise efficiency across the entire tailings management process.
One of ANDRITZ’s most notable success stories and one of the best references for dry stacking of tailings comes from the Itaminas iron ore mine in Brazil. By implementing ANDRITZ filter presses with LENSER filter plates as well as an advanced Metris addIQ control system, the mine achieved significant improvements in water recovery and reduced tailings volumes.
The Metris addIQ RheoScan for belt filter presses optimises polymer consumption. Image: ANDRITZ
This not only minimised Itaminas’ environmental footprint but also lowered operational costs associated with tailings storage, proving the value of ANDRITZ’s technologies in real-world applications.
Looking ahead, ANDRITZ is working on several cutting-edge technologies aimed at revolutionising tailings management.
“One of our current development programs is focused on significant operational enhancements within our filter press technology,” Gerards said.
“Inspired by our vast experience in the Brazilian iron ore industry, we have implemented R&D in improving filter plate handling and filter cloth changing technology.”
Another interesting innovation is the Metris addIQ RheoScan, a system designed to optimise polymer dosage in real-time during the dewatering process.
“This technology automatically adjusts polymer dosing based on the rheological properties of the tailings, ensuring maximum efficiency in flocculation and sedimentation processes,” Gerards said.
The result is reduced polymer consumption, enhanced water recovery, and lower operational costs.
ANDRITZ is currently developing digital twin models that simulate and optimise tailings processes in real-time. These virtual models allow operators to predict and fine-tune performance, leading to improved efficiency and safety in tailings management.
The company is also exploring energy recovery systems that capture and reuse energy generated during the dewatering process, turning waste into a valuable resource stream.
ANDRITZ also plans to roll out a new filter press design over the next 12 to 18 months, alongside other advancements like enhanced digital twin applications and energy-efficient filtration systems.
These innovations are expected to significantly reduce the environmental footprint of tailings management while improving operational efficiency and safety.
Zenith plate lips currently come in standard, long and heavy-duty options to suit all application requirements. Image: Bradken
Last week Bradken was on the floor at MINExpo INTERNATIONAL to showcase its latest innovation in ground engaging tools, the Zenith Plate Lip System.
The Zenith Plate Lip System has been engineered to minimise dig energy required for penetration and extend wear life.
With styles available across multiple machine classes over 300 tonnes, and engineered to suit various digging conditions, the Zenith System can deliver a reduction in total cost of ownership, safer removal processes, and reduced downtime and maintenance.
Bradken Zenith points and adapters are available in three options to support the system across multiple applications.
That means an easy conversion to the Zenith Plate Lip system from existing lip kit or new complete lip fitments.
Bradken’s design reduces change-out time with a hammer-free pin, allows point rotation for maximum wear, and is engineered to perform in all climate conditions.
Weir is an innovative, end-to-end solutions provider focused on accelerating sustainable mining.
Exhibiting at this year’s MINExpo, in the Central Hall Booth #8833, Weir has showcased its marketing-leading brands and unveiled a range of new innovative technologies and solutions.
Weir has launched its ESCO NEXSYS GET Lip System for rope shovel dippers, which lowers lip maintenance requirements, extends tooth and adapter life and, ultimately, provides miners with longer uninterrupted shovel operation.
ESCO NEXSYS GET Lip System. Image: Weir
Weir has also unveiled its new high-capacity ENDURON ELITE screen. It’s a double-deck banana screen, available in a range of sizes, the largest of which has a deck measuring 4.3m x 8.5m and weighs nearly 50 tonnes. It’s driven by two exciters, whereas competitor machines of comparable size require three.
It will form an integral part of Weir’s commitment to deliver transformational flowsheet solutions in which traditional tumbling mills are replaced by high pressure grinding rolls (HPGRs) and vertical stirred mills, potentially reducing energy consumption by up to 40 per cent.
Weir’s booth features the digital hub, which will highlight Weir’s digital offering, MOTION METRICS, and Weir’s new digital brand, NEXT Intelligent Solutions.
The new MOTION METRICS ShovelMetrics Gen 3 Payload monitoring solution is designed to optimise truck loading and improve haulage efficiency by reducing both underloading and overloading. And as part of Weir’s commitment to service its customers even in the most remote locations, MOTION METRICS systems now support connectivity via Starlink, enabling reliable data transmission anywhere in the world.
Weir’s NEXT Intelligent Solutions. Image: Weir
NEXT Intelligent Solutions extend and expand Weir’s current capabilities and transforms its process optimisation services into real-time digital solutions. Weir has developed digital packages for all of its market-leading solutions – pumps, cyclones, HPGRs, screens and hoses and spools – based around key customer needs: insight, uptime and production.
The digital hub will use monitors to create a remote operation centre, allowing attendees to experience the same digital platforms and interfaces that Weir utilises to support its customers.
Attendees have also had an opportunity to experience an interactive scale P&H 41000XPC shovel model demonstration of MOTION METRICS ShovelMetrics Gen 3, as well as a ShovelMetrics model control station, featuring the same touch screen monitor and controller used by operators.
Weir experts from its digital, extraction, processing, comminution, tailings, and flowsheet solutions teams will be available at the booth to continue the conversation about how Weir is partnering with customers to accelerate sustainable mining.
“MINExpo is a wonderful event and a great opportunity to catch up with our customers and colleagues,” Weir chief executive officer Jon Stanton said.
“We’ve been doing a lot of work to expand our portfolio of innovative, end-to-end solutions to help our customers produce the metals and minerals required to transition to a low carbon economy and it’s exciting to be able to show that off at the world’s largest mining show.
“It is clear the world needs more metals and minerals but there is a recognition in the industry that we need to mine them more sustainably than we have in the past. That means using less energy, using water wisely and generating less waste. And Weir – with our world-class engineering, advanced materials science and intelligent automation – is at the forefront of helping miners do that.”
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Hengst Filtration has announced the launch of its latest addition to the inline filter series: the 250LEN series inline filter.
This highly engineered filter is designed to meet the tough demands of high-pressure industries. The 250LEN series is designed to enhance the efficiency and productivity of hydraulic machinery and industrial equipment while minimising operational costs.
Key features of the 250LEN series inline filter
The 250LEN series inline filter is a cutting-edge solution that complements Hengst’s existing range of filtration solutions.
With a maximum operating pressure of 250 bar, this new filter series offers strong performance under pressure for demanding environments.
Optimised cyclone-effect technology: the 250LEN series incorporates an optimised flow path that significantly improves differential pressure and enhances separation capabilities. This innovation results in a remarkably low Delta P value
Additional mounting flexibility: from size 250LEN0160-0400, the 250LEN series is equipped with additional side mounting, offering greater flexibility for installation in various industrial setups. For added convenience, Mini-Mess connections are available as an option from size 250LEN0160-0400 onwards, providing further customisation to meet specific applications
High stability: the innovative non-circular design (NCD) of the 250LEN filter head ensures uniform stress distribution within the filter head. This design enhances the overall durability of the filter. This advanced design increases the life cycle of the filter to an impressive two million cycles, making it a reliable and cost-effective choice for long-term use in high-pressure environments
Increase performance with cyclone effect technology and PURE POWER filter elements
Cyclone-effect technology makes the incoming fluid flow tangentially and moves downwards around the filter element in a helical pattern.
This feature transports heavy dirt particles to the outside and prevents the filter pores from blocking prematurely. These heavier particles will accumulate on the inside and bottom of the filter bowl, depending on the actual fluid flow conditions, increasing the dirt holding capacity and extending the time between element replacements by seven to 10 per cent.
The 250LEN series inline filter is designed to work in tandem with the Hengst advanced PURE POWER (PWR) filter elements.
The PWR filter element layers are designed in such a way, that the combination achieves a high retention rate and dirt holding capacity, in conjunction with a low clean differential pressure drop.
The filter material is pleated and wrapped cylindrically round the support tube and glued, so it is impermeable to liquid along the material seam and top and bottom end caps. This highly engineered construction enhances the overall durability, performance and longevity of the filter, making it the perfect choice for critical industries.
Whether for use in mining, manufacturing, or other heavy-duty industries, the 250LEN series inline filter from Hengst sets a new benchmark in high-pressure filtration, combining innovative design with proven technology to deliver superior performance, durability, and cost-efficiency.
Arcadium Lithium will transition its Mt Cattlin mine in Western Australia into care and maintenance following the recent softening of lithium prices.
Stage 4A waste stripping and any expansionary investment will be suspended after the mine completes Stage 3 mining and ore processing by mid-2025.
Though considered a relatively small mine compared to its neighbours, Arcadium president and chief executive officer Paul Graves said the mine will continue to play a big part in the company’s future.
“We remain committed to developing our global portfolio of hard rock assets and are confident that they will continue to be a significant part of Arcadium Lithium’s growth story,” Graves said.
“Unfortunately, production at Mt Cattlin beyond the current stage of the open pit cannot be justified in the current price environment for spodumene.
“We will maintain open and transparent dialogue with all of our stakeholders while supporting our employees and communities in Western Australia during this transition period.”
Arcadium was firm Mt Catltin will not be closed, with its care and maintenance program intended to keep the mine and processing facilities in a position to potentially resume operations when market conditions become more favourable.
The company said it will continue to explore the viability of underground mining at the Mt Cattlin site, which could potentially extend the remaining mine life.
As a result of the decision to put Mt Cattlin on hold, Arcadium expects to increase its net expected cash flow in 2024 and 2025 cumulatively by approximately $US75 ($111.2 million) to $US100 million ($148.3 million).
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The South Australian Chamber of Mines and Energy (SACOME) has weighed in on BHP’s plan to more than double its copper production in the state by 2030.
BHP plans to upgrade its Olympic Dam copper smelter to a ‘stage-two smelter’, as well as expand its refining capacity.
As one of only two copper smelters in Australia, the expansion will be a potential boon for the state.
“South Australia was known as ‘The Copper Kingdom’ in the 1840s when copper was first discovered,” SACOME chief executive officer Rebecca Knol said.
“Today’s copper renaissance is crucial to our everyday lives and to our energy transition.
“From EVs (electric vehicles) and charging stations to mobile devices and life-saving healthcare, copper is fuelling our lives and our net-zero ambitions.”
In SA, BHP currently operates the Carrapateena, Olympic Dam, Prominent Hill, and Oak Dam copper mines.
The Big Australian has been outspoken in its desire to become a global copper powerhouse, and has placed its focus directly on SA.
SACOME said it is essential for state and Federal governments to ensure BHP’s strategy for the smelter and refinery expansion becomes a reality.
There are now several steps that need to be undertaken to advance the project, including an Environment Protection and Biodiversity Conservation determination, development of Terms of Reference, and the preparation of an environmental impact assessment.
“(This) is a significant milestone in BHP’s proposed smelter and refinery expansion, which aims to position SA as a leading global copper jurisdiction,” Knol said.
“The State Prosperity Project has provided a framework for strategic development that enables value-add to South Australia’s already impressive resource endowment.”
The State Prosperity Project is a co-ordinated initiative by the SA Government to unlock the full potential of renewable energy, critical minerals and green manufacturing to herald a new era of prosperity for South Australia.
The project’s key focus is the Upper Spencer Gulf, with the SA Government investing jobs and training in the region.
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Weir’s redefined flowsheet solution includes Enduron HPGR technology. Image: Weir
The Weir Group has been awarded a £53 million ($102 million) contract to provide energy-efficient and sustainable solutions to the Reko Diq copper-gold project in Pakistan.
The project is 50 per cent owned by Barrick Gold, and is located in the Chagai district of Balochistan. Barrick is targeting first product at the site in 2028, with an estimated mine life of over 40 years.
The contract will see Weir provide fine grinding, separation and tailings solutions, featuring equipment such as Weir’s Enduron high-pressure grinding rolls (HPGR), Enduron Elite wet and dry vibrating screens, Warman slurry pumps, and Cavex hydrocyclones.
“We are delighted to have secured this significant contract which represents further industry acceptance of Weir’s differentiated sustainable and cost-effective redefined flowsheet solution, with our market leading HPGR technology particularly suited for the water-scarce climate and geology of the Reko Diq copper-gold project,” Weir chief executive officer (CEO) Jon Stanton said.
“Our engineers have designed an innovative solution that comprehensively addresses the particular challenges of this project and is a great example of working in close partnership with an ambitious customer who shares in our purpose to sustainably and efficiently deliver the natural resources essential to create a better future for our world.”
After equipment commissioning is completed, Weir will provide aftermarket support via an on-site service centre staffed with Weir technical personnel.
Barrick president and CEO said the company is proud to be partnering with Weir.
“The Reko Diq project will grow Barrick’s strategically significant copper and gold portfolios, benefiting all its Pakistan and Balochistan stakeholders,” he said.
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Weir’s new Port Hedland facility services Enduron® HPGRs along with critical parts storage for faster service times for customers. Image: Weir
De Grey Mining has awarded Weir a contract to supply an Enduron high-pressure grinding roll (HPGR) for its Hemi gold project in the Pilbara.
The contract comes as Weir officially opens its Port Hedland Service Centre to further support its customers in the Pilbara.
De Grey Mining project director Peter Holmes said the company is looking forward to the partnership.
“De Grey Mining is pleased to partner with Weir on one of its key long lead items for its Hemi gold project and appreciates Weir having a local service facility to provide the required support to our site and the region,” he said.
Weir Enduron HPGRs global product manager Bjorn Dierx echoed similar sentiments.
“Our partnership with De Grey Mining further expands our footprint in sustainable comminution,” Dierx said.
“Our proven track record of developing highly engineered solutions for the industry, together with our capability to partner with our customers to bring projects to life, ensures that De Grey Mining will be in good hands to achieve its productivity, sustainability and project execution targets.
“Importantly, Enduron HPGRs also provide significant improvements versus traditional tumbling mill technology with energy savings of up to 40 per cent and in turn, a lower carbon footprint. This will be the fifth, similar-sized Enduron HPGR in the Pilbara region alone, which is a testament to its credibility in high capacity, hard-rock grinding.”
Weir regional managing director Kristen Walsh said the contract elevates Weir’s sustainability goals.
“This win further underscores Weir’s commitment to making mining more sustainable and demonstrates the substantial opportunity that can be made to CO2 emissions reduction when choosing an energy-efficient technology in a large greenfield project,” she said.
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