Modern Mining March 2021

SUPPLY CHAIN News

The COVID-19 pandemic has irrefutably placed tremendous strain on South Africa’s already struggling economy, prompting operations to now, more than ever before, focus on maximising their productivity and production while reducing operating costs wherever and whenever possible and as much as possible, so says David Stanford, business line manager for Atlas Copco Power Technique’s Portable Products. “We are aware of the challenges our customers are facing so we have made Atlas Copco’s centrifugal dewatering surface pump solutions sure that we are able to offer products that deliver exactly what they need. For those customers who require pump solutions, we offer a range of high performance, super- efficient, robust, compact, versatile and easy-to-service products that get the job done seamlessly while being considerate to the environment.” Stanford stresses that the pumps’ high performance capabilities do not compromise on what he considers to be one of the most essential factors for reducing operational expenditure (OPEX) and lowest total cost of owner- ship, namely efficiency. Atlas Copco’s PAS dry self-

Also available in a canopy version, the PAS range comprises four high-flow (HF) and five medium-flow (MF) models delivering a maximum flow capacity of 2 100 m³/h, with a maximum head of 75 m and an outlet size of 100 – 300 mm. These fit-for-purpose diesel pump sys- tems are equipped with several features that render them ideal for mining appli- cations. With the ability of working with clean or dirty water and handling trash and fibrous materials with ease, these pumps can pump, raise and transport liquids with solids of up to 100 mm in suspension over long distances without the risk of clogging. The solids-handling capability is due to the inclusion of a centrifugal pump with a semi- open impeller and an abrasion-resistant pump casting. The PAS pumps’ dry prime capabilities enable the user to start pumping imme- diately with a simple flick of the switch, ensuring reliable operation in stringent conditions where start-up can often pres- ent a chal lenge. The pump system’s high-capacity diaphragm pump makes automatic priming possible; the air in the pump is separated from the liquid by the large SuperDuo separator which is then sucked by the vacuum pump.  on benchmarking and optimisation rec- ommendations, ideal for customers who are already managing their shutdowns but who may need expertise for addi- tional ideas or improvement strategies. 2. A Shutdown Support package aimed at minimising shutdown duration and maxi- mising plant availability. This package is perfect for customers who are looking for the resources or full know-how to take on a major shutdown event, alone. 3. A Shutdown Total Solution package which offers additional advisory, manage- ment support and execution manage- ment options when customers are look- ing for a more comprehensive shutdown solution. For refractory-lined assets such as smelt- ing furnaces, roasters, kilns, and calciners, Metso Outotec’s shutdown services include a refractory demolition service with nearly 40 years’ experience in some of the tough- est environments. 

priming and PAC H high head dewater ing sur face pump series features smart design, cutting-edge technology, qual- ity components and advanced manufacturing to deliver best- in-class pumping solutions. The PAS range of fully automatic dry self-priming centrifugal open-frame pumps serves as a prime example of Atlas Copco’s commitment to devel- oping smaller, lighter products that are easy to use, easy to move and easy to maintain.

Atlas Copco’s PAS fully automatic dry self-priming centrifugal open-frame pump.

Metso Outotec launches progressive Shutdown Services programmes

Metso Outotec is launching three Shutdown Services programmes centred on plan- ning and execution activities for improved shutdown performance. Each of the new packages aims at a different stage of the shutdown process and provide benefits in terms of expertise or resources. The packages can act as standalone

packages or complement the customer’s current shutdown planning and execution processes. Within each package there is also flexibility and the ability to tailor the package to the customer’s needs by adding or removing services. As an OEM supplier of sophisticated equipment, parts and services to the mining industry, Metso Outotec helps customers maintain their crit- ical assets during the planned shutdown or turnaround. “Metso Outotec provides expert advi- sory services, complete shutdown project management, even hands-on labor using our skilled technicians and approved con- tractors. From crushing and grinding to smelting and refining, we can support our customers across their entire company flowsheet,” states Leigh Mercieca, director Shutdown Services at Metso Outotec. The core planning and execution pack- ages in brief: 1. A Shutdown Readiness package focused

Metso Outotec progressive Shutdown Services.

38  MODERN MINING  March 2021