Ausenco Chile was appointed as the lump-sum turnkey contractor for Mantos Copper Holding's Mantoverde development project in February. The order was partially booked in the first quarter of 2021, with most of the amount, close to DKK200 million (US$32.9 million), booked in the second quarter of 2021. Delivery of the equipment is planned in the first half of 2022.
The range of equipment and technologies ordered includes the primary gyratory crusher, semi-autogenous grinding (SAG) mill, ball mill, traditional flotation cells, column cells, thickeners, cyclones and pumps. The flotation tailings and slimes thickeners will be designed to optimise the recovery of process water.
In total, FLSmidth estimates that around 4,700m3/hr overflow water will be available for reuse, a saving that supports its MissionZero sustainability goal of moving the mining industry towards zero water waste.
FLSmidth said it will also be able to provide comprehensive, long-term operational support at the site, which is located 400km south of the FLSmidth Service Supercenter in Antofagasta.
Mikko Keto, mining president at FLSmidth, commented: "We are delighted that Ausenco have recognised the benefits of selecting FLSmidth as their primary supplier for Mantoverde. It is a crystal-clear endorsement of FLSmidth's strength through the mineral processing flowsheet, and in service. This approach will maximise project execution efficiencies and de-risk process performance. We look forward to delivering the equipment to Mantoverde and providing service support from erection to start-up, and through to final commissioning."
Keto highlighted the MissionZero sustainability aspect of the order, as it will help reduce energy and water waste at the site. He added: "We are looking forward to working with Ausenco and their Environment & Sustainability team in South America. As the provider of the equipment and service, we will ensure optimised throughput and the efficient commissioning of the project in an environmentally friendly manner. This project will transform Mantoverde into a long-life, low-cost operation."
Mantoverde will produce 106,000t/y of fine copper and 33,000oz/y of gold.
