The Weir Group PLC, a leading global provider of mining technology solutions, has secured a major contract to supply its advanced WARMAN® slurry pumps and CAVEX® hydrocyclones for Teck’s Highland Valley Copper (HVC) Mine Life Extension (MLE) project in Canada.
HVC Mine Life Extension Project: Boosting Copper Production
The HVC Mine Life Extension Project is a strategic initiative aimed at prolonging the mine’s lifespan while upgrading site infrastructure to meet the rising global demand for copper—a critical material for the transition to a low-carbon economy. The project is projected to produce an additional 1.95 million tons of copper throughout its extended operational period.
Introducing the Largest Mill Pump in North America
At the heart of the MLE project is Weir’s WARMAN® MCR® 760 pump, which is set to become the largest mill circuit pump in North America. This milestone aligns with Weir’s successful installations of similarly sized pumps in South America and Australia, solidifying its leadership in high-capacity mill pumping solutions.
Features of the WARMAN® MCR® 760 Pump
- High Flow Capacity: Designed to handle exceptionally high flow rates.
- Efficiency: Fewer operating lines for enhanced efficiency and throughput.
- Durability: Maximizes wear life in harsh mill conditions.
- Easy Maintenance: Engineered for safe and straightforward servicing.
The pump addresses critical industry challenges, such as declining ore grades, by ensuring high throughput and economic mineral recovery.
Reliable Hydrocyclone Solutions for HVC
Alongside the mill pump, Weir will supply its CAVEX® 800CVX and 650CVX hydrocyclones. These hydrocyclones are recognized for their:
- High Classification Efficiency: Ensuring precise mineral separation.
- Low Maintenance Requirements: Reducing downtime and costs.
- Operational Reliability: Proven performance for critical mining operations.
HVC’s decision to use CAVEX® hydrocyclones reflects their trusted performance in demanding environments.
Local Support from Weir’s Kamloops Service Center
Weir’s local service center in Kamloops, British Columbia, will provide essential support for the HVC project. This proximity allows for:
- Timely Maintenance and Repairs: Minimizing operational downtime.
- Access to Spare Parts: Ensuring mission-critical equipment runs smoothly.
- Expert Technical Assistance: Supporting efficient operations and production targets.
Why Local Support Matters
Phil Blondin, Director of Capital Sales North America at Weir, emphasized:
“Weir’s commitment to being close to our customers ensures reliable service and maintenance support. With our Kamloops service center just a short distance from HVC, we provide on-the-ground expertise and inventory solutions throughout the product lifecycle.”
Weir’s Proven Expertise in Mill Pumps
Quinton Sutherland, Divisional Senior Product Manager for Pumps at Weir, highlighted the company’s leadership in delivering large-scale mill pumps:
“Designing, manufacturing, and supporting pumps of this scale presents unique challenges, which our experienced global team is well-equipped to meet. Our proven ability to deliver these high-capacity solutions gives customers full confidence in Weir’s capability to support their most critical operations.”
Meeting Industry Challenges
With declining ore grades and increased demand for copper, Weir’s advanced technologies, like the WARMAN® MCR® 760 pump, are essential for improving throughput and achieving production goals.
Enabling Future Mining Success
Weir’s industry-leading technologies, combined with robust local support, empower mining operations like HVC to achieve sustainable production targets and enhanced operational efficiency.
The Highland Valley Copper MLE project marks another milestone in Weir’s mission to deliver innovative, high-performance solutions that meet the evolving needs of the global mining sector.