Revolutionising the fine mineral beneficiation industry with its innovative ‘right technology, right application’ principle, Gravitas® Minerals is pioneering an innovative approach to pilot testing. The company’s next phase is to move from concept development to practical application in the field, reveals Chief Executive Tebogo Kale.
“We have capability for conceptual flowsheet development and technical feasibilities, but we are moving to the next stage, which is piloting,” explains Kale. The groundwork has already been laid at its test facility in Benoni, where extensive development and proof of concept have taken place.
The company has now built a piloting unit that allows clients to conduct tests on their own sites, rather than in a controlled environment. “This way, they can bank the project, see that it has been connected to real site challenges and, most importantly, to technology scalability,” says Kale.
This shift is crucial as it not only boosts client confidence but also accelerates the bankability of projects, a vital aspect of securing funding. Kale emphasised that the pilot units significantly mitigate risks associated with new initiatives and technologies, making it easier for clients to invest.
The company showcased its technology at the recent Electra Mining 2024 event, receiving considerable interest from various sectors, particularly in chrome and iron ore. “We are now sending the message that we will test for proof of concept. We have the right quality of people, the capability, and the team to do it on-site,” says Kale.
“The chrome industry, for example, is struggling with recovery of ultrafine chrome, while ferrochrome and ferromanganese smelters need to recover metal from slag at a saleable grade. We have proven that it is possible; now we are taking a step further to ensure it happens on our clients’ sites.”
Gravitas® Minerals has developed units capable of processing 5 tph and 10 tph for on-site testing. Kale remarked: “It shows what we are doing at the coalface and how we are assisting clients in getting their mineral recovery projects off the ground, enabling ESG and circular economy.”
With a focus on long-term support, the company is not just about launching projects but also ensuring their sustainability. “Our technologies carry above average warranty, coupled with process support engineers who will assist during both the piloting phase and full-scale operations,” says Kale. This dual approach not only enhances the initial testing phase but also facilitates seamless transitions into full operational capacity.
“Piloting reduces project risks. After confirming technical feasibility, we proceed to integrate our technologies into a modular recovery plant. This is the Gravitas® difference: we employ technologies we deeply understand and steadfastly support to ensure they deliver as promised. For us, performance is non-negotiable, and we have consistently achieved it across all our operations.”
The main feature of the pilot units is their modularity, which can be adjusted according to client requirements. “We provide our clients with a modular setup that is pre-assembled and rapidly deployed, offering a shorter route to revenue and sustainability,” highlights Kale. The goal is to build modular plants that are operational, with ongoing support as they scale.
With this strategic move, Gravitas® Minerals aims to penetrate these sectors effectively, showcasing its capabilities in sustainability and operational efficiency. Kale concludes with an invitation to potential clients: “If you have not contacted us yet, what are you waiting for? We are constantly looking for industry partners to co-create economic value and decrease environmental liability. The future looks promising with the flexible business models we are investigating.” As Gravitas® Minerals ramps up its efforts in piloting and modular solutions, clients can anticipate the positive impact these developments will have on mineral processing in South Africa.
Ends
Notes to the Editor
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About Gravitas® Minerals
At Gravitas® Minerals, our purpose is to maximise mineral resources by developing simple process technologies and engineered systems to increase recovery, reduce environmental liability, and maximise economic value. Gravitas® Minerals is the driving force behind the development of simple, efficient mineral processing technologies and systems. Not only are our technologies innovative and ground-breaking, they are also designed with improved eco-ratings. All technologies and systems come with top-rated process support as standard.
Gravitas® Minerals Contact
Tebogo Kale
Chief Executive
Cell: 079 490 4565
Email: tebogo.kale@gravitasminerals.com
Media Contact
Rachel Mekgwe
Senior Account Executive
NGAGE Public Relations
Phone: (011) 867 7763
Fax: 086 512 3352
Cell: 074 212 1422
Email: rachel@ngage.co.za
Web: www.ngage.co.za
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