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A major African copper mine has dramatically turned around its operational efficiency and profitability, thanks to the deployment of Valmet’s advanced Flowrox peristaltic pump. The mine, which had been crippled by frequent, costly downtime and high maintenance requirements stemming from its previous slurry pumping system, found a definitive solution in Valmet’s high-performance flow control technology, underscoring the measurable value Valmet delivers to its customers in demanding industrial environments.
The root of the copper mine’s challenge was the persistent failure of existing peristaltic slurry pumps, which necessitated frequent and disruptive hose replacements. These interruptions translated directly into substantial financial losses due to curtailed production throughput and escalating labor costs for maintenance. Recognizing the severe impact on their bottom line and daily operations, the mine sought an urgent and robust solution to stabilize its critical pumping processes.
Valmet’s team of pumping experts responded by proposing a trial of the Flowrox 360-degree, DN100 peristaltic hose pump. This unit is specifically engineered for continuous, demanding slurry applications, featuring a design that prevents overheating, thereby eliminating the need for costly standby equipment and simplifying maintenance. Crucially, the Flowrox DN100 pump delivered a higher flow rate than the competitor’s larger DN150 model, leading to immediate gains in energy efficiency and overall system cost reduction. The smaller footprint of the Flowrox pump further compounded savings by lowering equipment expense and allowing for the use of smaller-diameter piping in any future installations.
Following a rigorous evaluation, the mine committed to a 60-day operational trial, during which the Flowrox hose pump performed flawlessly, maintaining exceptional efficiency and reliability around the clock. This successful, continuous operation not only minimized unplanned downtime but also clearly demonstrated the competitive advantage of investing in Valmet’s robust and high-performance technology. The trial cemented the pump’s value proposition far beyond a mere replacement, proving its capability as a key enabler for enhanced productivity.
The final performance metrics were compelling: the Flowrox pump achieved a remarkable hose lifetime of 1,000 hours, reduced the replacement time for the hose to a mere one to two hours, and required 77 per cent less lubricant than the legacy system. These improvements collectively translated into substantial cuts in operating costs, a significant boost in productivity, and renewed confidence for the mine’s management in their long-term operational performance and sustainability.
