He stated that access to credible geoscientific information enables evidence-based decision-making, which in turn supports informed choices about resource utilisation and economic growth.

Mabuza further noted that sustainable mining extends beyond mineral extraction and relies on skilled people, resilient communities, and institutions capable of adapting to technological change. While global discussions increasingly focus on lists of critical minerals, he questioned whether such narrow definitions fully capture the broader developmental value of mineral resources.

In his view, all minerals are critical, with their value shaped by society’s developmental trajectory and technological ambitions. South Africa’s geology, he argued, remains vastly underexplored despite nearly two centuries of formal mining. As the world moves toward net-zero emissions by 2050, demand for minerals such as copper and lithium is set to multiply. Meeting these targets will require unprecedented exploration success and a far more agile mineral discovery pipeline.

For Mabuza, this underscores the importance of investing in advanced geoscientific skills. From digital mapping and data analytics to integrated geological modelling, the country must deliberately build a critical mass of geoscientists capable of reducing the traditional 20- to 30-year exploration-to-development timeline to seven years or less.

The recent characterisation of lithium-bearing rock in the Northern Cape, he noted, illustrates how technological progress can unlock previously overlooked resources.

During a panel discussion at the Lekgotla on advancing technological skills in the mining sector, Mustak Ally, Head of Skills Development and HR at the Minerals Council South Africa, who acted as moderator, highlighted that automation, artificial intelligence, robotics, and advanced sensing technologies are creating new demands for skills training in the mining industry.

The panel emphasised that the sector’s technological transition is characterised by augmentation rather than replacement, with traditional mining roles evolving rather than disappearing. From mine managers to artisans and technicians, existing occupations are being reshaped by digitalization.

Production supervisors are increasingly required to interpret data-driven dashboards, engineers and geologists must operate within autonomous and remotely managed systems, and artisans are expected to become digitally fluent, capable of working with predictive maintenance tools and sensor-based technologies.

The panel stressed that curriculum reform is therefore urgent. Qualifications and skills programs must integrate automation, systems integration, cybersecurity, and remote operations. At the same time, soft skills such as leadership and adaptability are equally vital to steering technological transition responsibly.

Collaboration was identified as non-negotiable, with industry, training institutions, government, and quality assurance bodies required to co-own curriculum design, workplace training, and assessment.

Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) colleges must also be encouraged to deepen partnerships with mining companies to ensure learners gain meaningful workplace exposure and lecturers remain current with industry practices. Importantly, the conversation extended beyond compliance and clean audits.

The need to measure impact was stressed, specifically, whether training translates into competence, productivity, and broader economic resilience. Skills development must strengthen not only mine-site performance but also adjacent economies within mining communities, from supplier development to digital service platforms.

The Lekgotla, which also marked the 30th anniversary of the Mining Qualifications Authority (MQA), concluded with the signing of a pledge by organised labour, community representatives, employers, and the state. In its preamble, the social partners of South Africa’s mining and minerals sector reaffirmed their commitment to building a capable, inclusive, and future-oriented skills ecosystem that supports growth, social justice, and economic transformation.

Recognising technological change, the Just Energy Transition, and persistent inequalities affecting workers, women, youth, and mining-affected communities, the signatories entered a renewed social compact anchored in partnership, accountability, and shared value creation.

The post Geoscience and skills drive the future mining appeared first on Mining Business Africa.

Built on a legacy of proven performance, the new 6040 integrates advanced technologies and system improvements to help mining companies optimise load haul cycles and reduce operating costs.

Built for Efficiency and Performance

A key feature of the new 6040 is the integration of Cat Payload technology, which measures every bucket load to ensure optimal truck loading without over or underloading. This helps improve cycle efficiency and maximise output.

According to Nils Feddern, senior product consultant for hydraulic mining shovels at Caterpillar, the focus was on delivering both performance and efficiency.

“With the new 6040 design, we focused on delivering high breakout forces and fast swing cycles while at the same time increasing fuel efficiency through hydraulic optimization. Similar to the next generation 6060, the new 6040 integrates proven Cat electronics infrastructure to help enhance performance and reliability, while a common design helps streamline maintenance and reduce downtime.”

The shovel features hydraulic optimisation technology that dynamically adjusts oil flow and pressure based on demand, improving energy efficiency and reducing heat generation. This system makes the machine up to 15% more efficient compared to conventional models.

Powered by twin Cat C32B engines delivering 1,550 kW, the 6040 offers flexibility, including the ability to operate on a single engine when needed. Maintenance intervals have also been extended, reducing downtime and improving availability.

High breakout forces ensure consistent performance in tough materials, while a closed loop swing system enhances cycle times and energy efficiency.

Enhancing Operator Comfort and Safety

The next generation 6040 introduces a redesigned cab focused on operator comfort, safety and training. The cab offers improved visibility, lower noise levels and ergonomic controls, along with a 10-inch touchscreen display for real time monitoring and diagnostics.

Features such as Vision 360 provide a full surround view of the machine, reducing blind spots and improving safety during operation. A three-seat configuration also allows for in cab training, supporting skills development and operational efficiency.

Additional safety enhancements include a hydraulically operated access stairway with emergency lowering capability, ensuring safe entry and exit under all conditions.

Future Ready and Digitally Connected

The shovel is designed with future technologies in mind, incorporating advanced electronics and connectivity through ProductLink Elite. This enables real time machine data tracking and supports integration with Cat MineStar solutions, including fleet management, terrain mapping and health monitoring systems.

The design also allows for future retrofit options, including alternative power solutions, positioning the machine for evolving industry requirements.

Built for Durability and Uptime

Engineered for demanding mining environments, the 6040 is designed for a service life of at least 60,000 hours. Structural enhancements, simplified lubrication systems and improved hose routing contribute to higher reliability and reduced maintenance complexity.

Remote diagnostics and software updates further enhance uptime by allowing service teams to identify and resolve issues without interrupting operations.

With its combination of performance, efficiency and advanced technology, the next generation Cat 6040 is positioned to help mining operations meet evolving productivity demands while reducing operational costs and improving sustainability outcomes.

The post Caterpillar unveils next generation Cat 6040 Hydraulic mining shovel appeared first on Mining Business Africa.

The new models represent the next evolution of Sandvik’s well-established CH400 and CH600 series cone crushers, building on decades of engineering experience to deliver a stronger mechanical design, simplified serviceability, and enhanced digital connectivity.

“For more than a century, Sandvik has focused on engineering equipment that delivers reliability, safety, and long-term performance,” says Tarynn Yatras, Vice President – Sales Area Africa at Sandvik Rock Processing Solutions. “The new CH442 and CH662 build on that legacy by introducing stronger key components, faster and easier maintenance, and intelligent automation that give operators clearer insight and better control of their production.”

The Sandvik CH662 was showcased at CONEXPO 2026, where visitors had the opportunity to see the strengthened design, upgraded automation capabilities, and productivity-focused improvements first-hand.

Both crushers have been designed to deliver improved operational stability, higher availability, and more efficient maintenance processes. A key innovation is the backing compound-free design, which eliminates the curing time typically required during liner changes. This removes up to 24 hours of downtime, allowing maintenance to be completed more quickly.

According to PC Kruger, Business Line Manager – Crushing Solutions at Sandvik Rock Processing, removing backing compounds also improves safety and simplifies service procedures.

“By eliminating the need for backing compounds, liner changes become faster and safer while reducing operator exposure to bonding agents,” he explains. “This approach improves crusher availability while also making routine maintenance easier for site teams.”

The crushers are suited to high-capacity secondary crushing, high-reduction tertiary crushing, and pebble crushing applications, allowing operators to adapt the machines to a wide range of mining and aggregate processing environments.

A major focus of the redesign has been strengthening key components that directly influence uptime and operational reliability. The top shell has been reinforced with approximately 10% additional weight and improved material distribution, increasing durability under demanding crushing conditions. This is complemented by a newly engineered main shaft designed to further enhance mechanical stability and long-term performance.

Kruger explains that these improvements are aimed at ensuring the crushers deliver predictable performance in high-duty applications.

“The strengthened top shell and upgraded main shaft improve the overall mechanical robustness of the crusher,” he says. “Together with the redesigned spider bushing, these upgrades help maintain consistent crushing performance while supporting longer service intervals.”

The new spider bushing also incorporates an integrated temperature sensor connected to the crusher’s automation system, enabling operators to monitor operating conditions and detect potential issues earlier.

Both the CH442 and CH662 are equipped with Sandvik’s ACS-c 5 ASRi automation system, which enables automated crusher setting regulation and provides role-based access for system monitoring, troubleshooting, and performance optimization.

The machines can also be connected to SAM digital services, Sandvik’s cloud-based platform that provides real-time and aggregated data on crusher performance, wear patterns, alarms, and fleet status.

“This level of digital connectivity allows customers to gain deeper insight into crusher performance,” Kruger says. “Operators can monitor equipment condition more effectively, plan maintenance proactively, and optimize the crushing process based on real operating data.”

For African mining and aggregate producers, equipment reliability and lifecycle support remain critical factors in maintaining consistent production.

Yatras says Sandvik’s regional presence ensures customers receive the technical support and aftermarket services needed to maximize crusher performance over the long term.

“Across Africa, customers are looking for solutions that combine mechanical strength with digital intelligence and reliable aftermarket support,” she says. “Through Sandvik’s regional service footprint and technical expertise, we are well positioned to support customers in getting the best possible performance from these new crushers throughout their lifecycle.”

By combining strengthened mechanical design, simplified maintenance, and advanced automation capabilities, the CH442 and CH662 demonstrate Sandvik’s ongoing commitment to delivering safer, smarter, and more productive crushing solutions for the global mining and aggregates industries.

Yatras explains that Sandvik’s Reborn solution allows customers to upgrade an existing Sandvik CH440 or CH660 crusher to the performance level of the new CH442 or CH662 models, while reusing the installed auxiliaries and existing infrastructure.

This approach is designed to save time, reduce capital expenditure, and extend asset life while still delivering the key benefits of the next-generation crushers.

“Through the Reborn solution, an existing Sandvik cone crusher can effectively be transformed into a next-generation CH442 or CH662, providing higher uptime, safer maintenance, and smarter operation with a lower capital investment,” Yatras concludes.

The post Sandvik Introduces Next-Generation CH442 and CH662 cone crushers to boost crushing performance across Africa appeared first on Mining Business Africa.

Booyco Electronics CEO Anton Lourens emphasised that coordinated effort between technology providers, mining companies, original equipment manufacturers and regulators is essential for effective implementation.

“Effective PDS rollout only happens when technology suppliers, OEMs, mines and regulators work in step,” he said. “We have seen real progress, but the industry must deepen these partnerships if we want sustainable long-term success.”

Lourens noted that Booyco Electronics’ journey has mirrored the evolution of mining safety technologies over nearly two decades.

“When we first introduced what were then called collision warning systems, the technology and regulatory landscape looked very different,” he said. “Our close work with OEMs and mines over the years has ensured that our solutions evolve with their real-world operational needs.”

According to Lourens, structured change management plays a pivotal role in ensuring the successful deployment of PDS technologies.

“Phased implementation works,” he said. “When operators, supervisors and management understand the system and buy into the process, you get safer more responsive environments and far fewer disruptions.”

The introduction of South Africa’s Level 9 vehicle intervention requirement under the Mine Health and Safety framework has further intensified the need for collaboration across the sector.

“Level 9 has accelerated conversations across the industry,” Lourens explained. “But technology alone cannot overcome challenges around operator resistance, production concerns or fears of nuisance trip-outs. Those issues require engagement, communication and shared commitment.”

He stressed that mines that involve all key departments from the outset tend to achieve the most successful outcomes.

“When production, engineering, finance, HR and safety sit around the table from day one, implementation is smoother and acceptance is higher,” he said.

Lourens also highlighted the importance of risk-led planning as the foundation for any PDS rollout.

“A PDS can only protect people if the mine’s baseline risk assessment is current and aligned to its traffic management plan,” he said. “Without that foundation, you cannot determine meaningful intervention zones or identify the highest risk equipment.”

Operational readiness has emerged as another crucial factor in successful implementation.

“We often find that mines have the hardware on site, but the people, processes and infrastructure aren’t ready,” Lourens said, noting that this misalignment can result in system bypassing, deployment delays and lower acceptance among workers.

Looking ahead, he believes the industry’s shift towards sensor fusion technologies will require even deeper cooperation among suppliers and equipment manufacturers.

“Mixed fleets need interconnected technologies,” Lourens explained. “Standardised interfaces are a step forward, but genuine supplier-to-supplier collaboration is what will unlock full fleet-wide protection.”

He concluded that the complexity of modern mining safety systems means no single stakeholder can deliver effective solutions alone.

“PDS touches everything – compliance, mine planning, equipment design and behaviour on the ground. No single stakeholder can deliver all of that alone. Partnerships remain the backbone of a future ready Zero Harm mining environment.”

The post Collaboration key to future of proximity detection systems in African mining, says Booyco appeared first on Mining Business Africa.

The success of a custom engineered transfer chute begins with understanding how a specific material will behave at the transfer point and then applying both scientific principles and practical experience to achieve the optimal design.

According to Dewald Tintinger, Technical Manager at Weba Chute Systems, the company’s approach combines a strong foundation in material flow science with decades of field experience to deliver reliable chute designs across a wide range of industries.

“Whether handling sticky manganese ore, cohesive clay or abrasive lumpy run of mine feed, it is vital to base chute design on a detailed understanding of how materials flow, compact and interact with liners and geometry,” he says. “Every material behaves differently, so we can’t apply a one size fits all rule.”

The science behind material flow

Designing a transfer chute begins with bulk flow analysis, which helps engineers understand how materials will behave during operation. This analysis is often conducted in laboratory conditions using a representative fine fraction of the material, typically the minus 4 mm portion.

During testing, samples are evaluated under different moisture levels, pressures and flow angles to determine how easily the material will move under conditions similar to those in a processing plant.

“This lab work tells you part of the story but minus 4 mm material might only make up 20 to 30% of the actual particle size distribution,” Tintinger notes. “The real challenge is integrating that data with the larger lumpier portion of the material mix.”

This is where practical experience becomes critical. Drawing on knowledge from more than 5,000 chute installations worldwide, engineers at Weba Chute Systems have developed design parameters that reflect how mixed size materials behave collectively in real operational environments.

“It is something we have refined over years of lessons learned,” he adds. “The data is important but knowing how to interpret and apply it to real world conditions is where our expertise really comes through.”

Digital tools supporting modern engineering

Advanced digital technologies are also contributing to the design process. Discrete Element Modelling, known as DEM, is increasingly used in the industry to visualise how bulk materials move through transfer points.

While Weba Chute Systems uses DEM extensively, Tintinger emphasises that the technology is best applied as a verification and communication tool rather than the primary design method.

“DEM is valuable as a validation and communication tool and a way to show clients how the material will behave once it is flowing,” he says. “It helps verify flow patterns, impact zones and wear areas and therefore supports our established design methodology in delivering long term reliability and low maintenance performance.”

Despite its benefits, DEM simulations have certain limitations. They typically replicate only 60 to 240 seconds of material flow, whereas real operational challenges such as blockages or buildup can develop over much longer periods.

The technology also cannot fully reproduce environmental factors like heat, humidity or the fines generated by belt scrapers and cleaners, all of which influence how materials behave in actual plant conditions.

Combining physics, data and experience

To overcome these limitations, Weba Chute Systems relies on its established design methodology known as the continuum method, a traditional physics-based approach that has guided the company’s engineering practices for decades.

“Our core methodology remains rooted in what we call the continuum method, a traditional physics-based design approach that has been the backbone of the company’s success,” Tintinger explains.

By combining laboratory data, advanced visualisation tools and extensive field experience, the company continues to develop transfer chutes that perform reliably across different commodities and operating environments.

Ultimately, this balanced approach ensures that each custom engineered chute is tailored to the specific material it handles, improving efficiency, reducing wear and supporting long term operational reliability.

The post Understanding of material and flow underpins Weba chute design appeared first on Mining Business Africa.

The HPGR system will form part of the Phase 2 concentrator’s tertiary crushing circuit, supporting increased processing capacity at the large-scale platinum group metals project in South Africa.

The Platreef Mine, located approximately 280 km northeast of Johannesburg, is one of the world’s largest precious metals deposits currently under development. Phase 1 of the project began production in November 2025, while the Phase 2 expansion is expected to be completed by the end of 2027.

Ivanhoe Mines has also outlined plans for a further expansion phase aimed at transforming Platreef into one of the world’s largest and lowest-cost producers of platinum group metals (PGMs).

The decision to incorporate HPGR technology at Platreef follows the successful use of similar systems at the Kamoa-Kakula Copper Complex, where Ivanhoe Mines operates in joint venture with Zijin Mining.

ENDURON® HPGR systems are designed to deliver energy-efficient comminution, consuming up to 40% less energy than traditional tumbling mills. This reduction in energy usage can significantly lower operating costs while helping mining companies decrease carbon emissions and improve environmental performance.

The value of the contract has not been disclosed.

Bjorn Dierx, Weir, Director of HPGR and Process, said:

“Weir is delighted to be partnering with Ivanhoe Mines to supply our proven ENDURON HPGR technology. There has been a discernible trend in the mining sector towards reducing its environmental impact in recent years. The continued adoption of HPGR systems as the preferred solution for efficient, high-performance and sustainable ore processing provides one of the most significant opportunities in this regard.

“We have a large installed base of ENDURON HPGRs, and these orders reflect the strong confidence miners have in Weir’s advanced grinding technology and process expertise.

“Weir has always prioritised the service and support element of these partnerships. We understand the importance of being close to our customers and, in this case, we have a service centre less than 10km from the site to ensure we can provide immediate support during operations.”

Steve Amos, Ivanhoe Mines, Executive Vice President, Projects, said:

“HPGR technology is now fairly standard in the mining industry and has proven to be cost and energy efficient. Ivanhoe Mines has extensive HPGR operational experience gained from the three operating HPGRs at our Kamoa copper mine in DRC. We look forward to a successful and long-lasting partnership with Weir.”

The post Weir to supply ENDURON® HPGR for the phase 2 expansion of Ivanhoe Mines’ Platreef Mine appeared first on Mining Business Africa.

The Concorde Cell flotation cells will operate in combination with the TankCell technology previously chosen for the project, enhancing the optimisation of the flowsheet.

The high-intensity Concorde Cell is Metso’s advanced solution for processing complex orebodies. It is engineered to deliver faster flotation kinetics, higher recovery rates of fine and ultra-fine particles, and consistent concentrate-grade quality.

The forced-air pneumatic system generates intense shear forces and extremely fine bubbles, improving recovery for particles smaller than 20 microns.

Integrating Concorde Cell with TankCell technology offers a reliable and highly effective way to optimise the Lumwana project’s flotation process, particularly for finely disseminated sulphide ore.

“This low-risk, high-reward strategy is designed to maintain consistent concentrate-grade quality, making it particularly suitable for the Lumwana copper project site,” the project release notes.

In 2024, Metso secured a contract from Barrick Gold for the supply of key concentrator plant equipment at Lumwana, covering processes such as grinding, flotation, thickening, feeding, and filtration. The value of the Concorde Cell equipment order, around €70 million ($78.12 million), was recorded in Metso’s Minerals segment order intake for the third quarter of 2025.

The Lumwana copper mine, located roughly 100 km west of Solwezi in Zambia’s Copperbelt, operates as a traditional open pit mine using truck and shovel methods. The site primarily processes sulphide ore using a standard sulphide flotation plant to produce copper concentrate.

Metso’s Concorde Cell technology, when combined with TankCell flotation, represents a significant upgrade to Lumwana’s processing capabilities, optimising recovery rates, enhancing mineral processing efficiency, and supporting Barrick Gold’s strategic expansion plans.

The post Barrick Gold selects Metso’s Concorde Cell technology for Lumwana expansion appeared first on Mining Business Africa.

No single entity can address these challenges alone, making strong partnerships essential.

When innovation emerges from such close collaboration, technology can be deployed effectively, ensuring alignment with operational realities and fostering stakeholder trust.

The 2026 Investing in African Mining Indaba, to be held in February in Cape Town, will once again bring together stakeholders from across the continent’s mining value chain to deepen collaboration and build a more resilient, inclusive, and prosperous future for African mining.

The event’s focus on partnerships is reflected in its theme, “Stronger Together: Progress Through Partnerships,” which resonates with blasting, explosives, and mining chemicals solutions provider BME’s ethos of partnership-driven innovation.

Through its global partnerships, BME offers mine-to-metals solutions that balance performance with responsibility, delivering on parent company Omnia Holdings’ purpose of “innovating to enhance life, together creating a greener future.”

Seelan Gobalsamy, CEO of Omnia, said the company works closely with stakeholders to advance mining technologies, elevate operational excellence, and build trust with communities.

“Omnia remains committed to combining innovation with responsibility to deliver solutions that perform with excellence and contribute to sustainable mining,” he said.

“In line with this commitment, BME continues to demonstrate a strong track record of delivering safe, innovative, and quality solutions to its customers.”

Ralf Hennecke, Managing Director of BME, highlighted the company’s growth across Africa through strategic partnerships while maintaining a strong base in South Africa.

“The continent provides immense growth potential, mirrored by vibrant exploration activity and a diverse range of minerals, including those crucial to battery performance,” he said. Hennecke added that BME’s tailored solutions have helped reduce operating costs and fostered collaboration with host communities.

Driving green chemistry is also central to BME’s approach. Lefa Masiuana, General Manager of Mining Chemicals at BME, explained that the company works with mines to explore safer, more sustainable chemical use, reduce waste, and improve efficiency.

“For instance, we are helping clients implement chemical circularity by recovering and recycling chemicals, halving reagent demand, and saving on neutralisation costs,” he said. Projects like replacing pyrolusite with hydrogen peroxide in uranium acid leaching circuits demonstrate BME’s commitment to environmentally responsible practices.

BME will showcase its technologies at stand E10 at the Mining Indaba, supported by Omnia colleagues. Hennecke noted that the event is an opportunity to engage with customers and contribute to discussions that elevate the industry.

“Through collaboration, innovation, and trust, we can make African mining safer, more sustainable, and truly competitive,” he said.

Sidebar: Future-fit Mining Solutions

BME will showcase solutions including BLASTMAP, XPLOSMART, AXXIS, and INNOVEX. BLASTMAP provides 3D blast design software for faster cycles, safer operations, and better environmental compliance. XPLOSMART integrates AI-driven image processing for precision blasting. AXXIS electronic initiation systems deliver sub-millisecond blast timing for uniform fragmentation, while INNOVEX dual-salt emulsions optimise breakage, haulage, and crusher throughput.

The post Strong partnerships driving Africa’s mining excellence appeared first on Mining Business Africa.

As production targets increased, the site focused on easing constraints within the flotation circuit and raising capacity from 4,500 tonnes per day to 5,000 tonnes per day.

During this review, metallurgical teams identified losses in the fine fraction of the ore, an area where conventional tank cells were underperforming. 

To address this challenge, Lundin Gold worked with Glencore Technology, drawing on its experience in fines recovery.

Although the Jameson Cell has long been associated with cleaning duties, recent developments have expanded its application into rougher and scavenger roles. This shift opened new opportunities for recovery at Fruta del Norte. 

Detailed test work showed that Jameson Cells operating as rougher scalpers could deliver final concentrate grades early in the circuit. By recovering fines at the front end, the operation was able to reduce downstream losses and improve overall circuit balance. 

“With the adoption of a rougher scalper, cleaner scalper, and rougher scavenger configuration, operators at Fruta del Norte were able to improve Sulphur recovery by 78.1%. This is primarily driven by improved recovery of the -20um fraction which was previously lost to tails in the existing tank cell circuit.” 

Based on these results, Lundin Gold commissioned three Jameson Cells. Performance across bench scale, pilot trials, and full-scale operation showed consistent outcomes, with the Jameson Cells outperforming traditional rougher flotation approaches.

Average gold recovery increased by between 1 and 4 percent depending on ore characteristics. 

Beyond recovery, the changes also influenced downstream processing. By lowering the Sulphur grade reporting to the carbon leach circuit, the operation was able to reduce reagent demand and operating costs. 

“The improved fines recovery delivered by the Jameson Cells not only boosts our flotation recovery but also reduces the Sulphur grade fed to the carbon in leach circuit (CIL). This is a major contributing factor behind the drop in cyanide consumption, a substantial contributor to plant operating costs, “said Andrew Molloy, Metallurgical Supervisor. 

The outcomes at Fruta del Norte point to a broader shift in how concentrators can be designed. The flexibility of the Jameson Cell allows for simpler flowsheets, reduced circuit complexity, and lower energy use, while maintaining strong metallurgical performance. 

The post Jameson Cell lifts gold recovery at Fruta del Norte appeared first on Mining Business Africa.

The order, booked in Metso’s Minerals segment during the fourth quarter of 2025, covers all feeder types required for the project, although the contract value has not been disclosed.

The scope of delivery includes apron feeders, belt feeders, and vibrating feeders, all engineered to integrate seamlessly with Metso’s previously ordered process equipment for the Koné Gold development.

Together, the systems will form a vital part of the site’s dry comminution circuit, supporting stable material flow and long-term operational reliability.

“Feeders may not always be the most visible part of a mining circuit, but they are absolutely essential to its performance,” said Leif Berndt, Director of Feeding Solutions at Metso.

“At Koné, our feeders will play a critical role in ensuring consistent material flow, protecting downstream equipment, and supporting efficient, uninterrupted production.”

A standout feature of the delivery is Metso’s large belt feeders, which utilise the Metso Trellex® EP2500 Feeder Plus belt design. Developed to withstand heavy-duty mining applications, the belt offers enhanced strength and significantly longer service life compared with conventional alternatives.

“Our EP2500 Feeder Plus technology has been engineered specifically for high-load, high-impact applications,” Berndt added.

“It gives customers added confidence that their feeding operations can perform reliably even under demanding conditions.”

Reliable Feeding Solutions for Modern Mining Operations

Feeders play a crucial role in mining operations by transferring material between process stages and extracting ore from stockpiles while maintaining accurate dosing.

By delivering a steady and controlled flow of material, feeders help prevent bottlenecks, reduce wear on downstream equipment, and improve overall process efficiency.

Metso’s feeder portfolio includes apron, belt, grizzly, pan, and wobbler feeders, available in both standard and customised configurations. Designed with safety, durability, and versatility in mind, these solutions are built to perform in some of the harshest mining environments.

“With projects like Koné, customers are looking for equipment partners who can deliver both technical excellence and long-term reliability,” said a Metso project representative.

“Our feeding solutions are designed to help operators increase throughput, lower operating costs, and maintain safe, predictable operations over the life of the mine.”

The post Metso selected to supply complete feeder package for Koné Gold project in Côte d’Ivoire appeared first on Mining Business Africa.