First Quantum Minerals has contracted with MECS®,a subsidiary of Elessent Clean Technologies, for the Kansanshi Smelter Expansion at the Kansanshi Mine in Solwezi, Zambia.
The MECS® scope will include a redesign of the existing sulfur-burning sulfuric acid plant into a copper smelter off-gas recovery sulfuric acid plant. This transition to a copper smelter off-gas recovery acid plant will enable First Quantum Minerals to reduce emissions from the existing copper smelter, increase production at the mine, and supply more copper to the global market which will enable the adoption of greener technologies.
“The expansion of the Kansanshi Mine and transition to a smelter off-gas recovery sulfuric acid plant is an integral step to the extended life of the mining operation. It was important for Kansanshi and First Quantum Minerals to embark on this expansion by using environmentally sound practices, and MECS® is honored to play a part in this project.
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The MECS® technology, products and equipment used in the plant’s design are world-class and will ensure their commitment to sustainability and social responsibility are met,” said Brian Blair, MECS® Global Licensing Manager, Elessent.
The MECS® sulfuric acid design for First Quantum Minerals incorporates state-of-the-art products and technologies, such as MECS® catalyst for low emissions and high conversion, Brink® mist eliminators for superior mist elimination and ZeCor® alloy towers, ZeCor® pump tank and UniFlo® acid distributor technology for operational reliability and efficiency.
The sulfuric acid plant conversion will also facilitate increased capacity for First Quantum to better serve their clients, as well as benefit the region by contributing to a more competitive and cleaner global supply chain of copper and gold.
“Supporting the Kansanshi Smelter Expansion with First Quantum Minerals and the Kansanshi Mine has been an exciting opportunity. Not only is MECS helping to extend the life of the mine and optimize operations, but we are also in a unique position to help make a tremendously positive impact on the environment by helping reduce emissions,” said Eli Ben-Shoshan, CEO, Elessent.
Startup of the Kansanshi Smelter Expansion at the mine site in Solwezi, Zambia is expected to take place in 2025.
