As mining operators face declining ore grades, rising energy costs and increasing pressure to reduce
resource consumption, the economics of grinding have become a growing focus across the minerals
processing industry.
To help address these challenges, Weir has launched the ENDURON® Optimil vertical stirred mill, designed
to improve the economics of modern grinding circuits.
“Mining companies are under increasing pressure to improve productivity while reducing energy
consumption, water use and operating costs,” said Ralf Hesemann, Weir, Managing Director Vertical Stirred
Mills.
“By taking a fresh approach to vertical stirred mill design, we’ve created a solution focused on the practical
demands of modern processing operations, from media consumption and maintenance requirements to long-
term cost of ownership.”
At the heart of the technology is a proprietary grinding mechanism and media solution designed to improve
energy efficiency and extend wear life. The use of ceramic grinding media also provides the potential to
reduce grinding media costs.
Developed for a wide range of grinding applications, the ENDURON® Optimil vertical stirred mill is designed
to reduce planned maintenance frequency and downtime, improve plant availability and integrate effectively
within modern comminution circuits.
Beyond the direct operational benefits, the ENDURON® Optimil vertical stirred mill can support broader
sustainability objectives by helping reduce the energy and resource intensity of grinding.
“The launch of the ENDURON Optimil vertical stirred mill marks an important step for Weir, bringing our
stirred milling expertise together with our broader comminution capability. We developed the mill from first
principles, drawing on the expertise of world class stirred milling resources and using customer needs and
feedback to shape the design.” said Stuart Hayton, Weir, Vice President, Comminution.
“When combined with ENDURON HPGR technology, the ENDURON Optimil vertical stirred mill can deliver
energy savings of more than 40% compared with traditional grinding technologies, demonstrating the
potential to fundamentally improve the economics of mineral processing,”
“The response from customers has been extremely encouraging. Within the first 12 months of development
and market introduction, we secured orders for 10 ENDURON Optimil vertical stirred mills across the product
range.”
“Equipment performance is only part of the equation. Customers also need a partner that can support them
throughout the life of their operation. With local service centres, global comminution expertise and a strong
aftermarket support network, Weir works closely with customers to optimise performance, reduce downtime
and maximise long-term value.”
The launch further expands Weir’s ENDURON® comminution portfolio and reinforces the company’s
commitment to developing technologies that help customers improve productivity, reduce resource intensity
and enhance long-term operating performance.
