Metso first launched the Megaliner concept in 2012; since then, it has been installed in over 30 mills globally.

With the latest iteration, Metso can now offer Megaliner for all sections of horizontal mills: the head, the shell and the discharge system. Megaliner is suitable for large autogenous grinding (AG), semi-autogenous grinding (SAG) and ball mills where modern liner handlers are available.

The company stated that its new Megaliner for discharge systems can simplify and speed up grinding mill relines by up to 50%, as well as improving safety for mining operations. It integrates dischargers, grates, lifter bars and filling segments in one unit, reducing the number of components used by as much as up to 70%.

In terms of safety, Megaliner has a minimised number of attachment points; in addition, the bolts used to attach the liners are inserted from the outside of the mill, meaning that no workers are needed in the danger zone inside the mill. Instead, the work can be performed on steady and safe platforms.

Furthermore, the company added that the liner bolts are much shorter and well protected from dust, corrosion and general mechanical damage, making them longer lasting and easier to remove. The traditional long bolts through the grate, the pulp lifter and the mill discharge head are not used, making it up to 70% faster to knock out the bolts. It also eliminates the need for risky and expensive recoilless hammers.

Anssi Poutanen, vice president, mill lining solutions at Metso, said: "The discharge system of a grinding mill is the most complex and time-consuming part of the mill to reline. There are also significant risks involved when changing out heavy liners in a tough environment under time pressure. We are therefore thrilled to be able to offer a faster, but at the same time much safer solution that will reduce risks and increase uptime for our customers."