The Jameson Cell from Glencore Technology is now commissioned and operating at the Mogalakwena North Concentrator.
It allows Valterra Platinum to fully benefit from the low mass pull strategy which improves efficiency along the processing chain, reduces operating costs and enhances environmental performance.
The implementation of this technology is seen as a big step forward in using flotation technology and has allowed them to produce a higher grade of concentrate at a lower volume thereby reducing downstream processing.
Jameson Cell installation at Mogalakwena North enhances flotation efficiency. [Courtesy: Mining.com]
Why Jameson Cell Valterra Platinum Integration Matters For Mining
The Jameson Cell Valterra Platinum integration has resulted in tangible performance gains for the plant: concentrate volume was reduced by 14 per cent (after commissioning of the Jameson Cell) while concentrate grade improved by 16 per cent, resulting in a 21 per cent improvement in material handling and logistics costs.
The cell has allowed them to process 14 per cent less material while improving the quality of the product, which improves operational economics in a competitive market. All of these figures illustrate the positive results that advanced flotation technology can achieve.
Where Mogalakwena North Strengthens Global Platinum Production
Mogalakwena North plays an important role in the supply of platinum group metals throughout the world. The mine is operating at a significant scale and as part of its production this Jameson Cell allows it to do so more efficiently.
It is strengthening the role of the mine in producing high grade concentrate and improving its recovery rates to improve overall sustainability and lower waste.
When Commissioning Delivered Measurable Performance Gains
The Jameson Cell is now fully commissioned at the Mogalakwena North Concentrator and is performing well. Valterra Platinum CEO, Craig Miller was pleased with the results, he stated “early indications show adjusted north concentrator recoveries increased nearly “once percentage point”, not the primary focus of the project. We anticipate more gains after optimization and this indicates the technology has further potential”.
How Low Mass Pull Strategy Improves Cost And Sustainability
The low mass pull strategy is about reducing processed material volumes and therefore lowering waste at the expense of concentrate grade, which in this case increased while material throughput was reduced by 14 per cent. Smelting costs can be reduced since the amount of material being fed through will be reduced, 3,800 less trucks are needed each year, improving logistics costs.
Mogalakwena North plays a vital role in global platinum supply chains. [Courtesy: Minedoc]
What Makes Jameson Cell Superior To Conventional Units
Only 4 Jameson Cells were used to replace the 40 flotation cells that were originally installed at the site, illustrating the compact size and efficiency of the technology. This improvement in the flotation circuit leads to better selectivity and recovery than before. It was developed by Glencore Technology and was proved over testing to work as specified and scale as necessary to suit large scale operations.
What Future Expansion Means For Valterra Platinum Operations
Valterra Platinum may implement further Jameson Cells at their other two processing sites and are hoping to install technology at the south concentrator project in approximately two years, which will boost further efficiency and savings while enabling them to produce more product than before.
What Investors Should Watch In Jameson Cell Valterra Platinum Growth
Investors will be interested in the profitability of the company based on improved flotation efficiency and reduced costs from logistics and potentially other factors, such as more favorable recovery rates. They should also be interested in the overall market price and how it could influence Valterra Platinum’s profitability.
Also Read: Platinum Asset Management Merger 2025: Annual Report and L1 Capital Deal
FAQs
Q1: What is the Jameson Cell used for in mining?
A1: It is used for flotation processes in mineral recovery. It improves efficiency and increases concentrate grade.
Q2: How much improvement did Mogalakwena North achieve?
A2: Concentrate volumes fell by 14 per cent. Grade increased by 16 per cent, reducing logistics by 21 per cent.
Q3: How many units were replaced by Jameson Cells?
A3: Four Jameson Cells replaced 40 conventional units. This highlights its efficiency and compact design.
Q4: What cost savings are expected from the technology?
A4: The system reduces 3,800 truckloads annually. This leads to significant diesel and logistics savings.
Disclaimer
This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute financial advice. The content is based on publicly available information from company statements and industry sources. Readers should conduct independent research before making investment decisions. Colitco does not guarantee the accuracy or completeness of the information provided.
Sources
- https://www.australianmining.com.au/jameson-cell-powers-valterra-platinums-low-mass-pull-strategy-at-mogalakwena-north/
- https://www.glencoretechnology.com/en/knowledge/media-news/valterra-mogalakwena-jcells
