Global mining technology provider Weir has successfully installed China’s largest mill circuit slurry pump at a copper mine over 5000 metres above sea level.
With thin air and freezing condition at such a high altitude, the operating environment in the Tibet Autonomous Region has been described as complex.
Despite challenges, the Weir service team successfully carried out the installation of six WARMAN MCR 650 pumps and two WARMAN MCR 750 pumps on schedule.
The operation consisted of precise lifting, positioning and pipeline connections of multiple large-scale, high-end pumps while overcoming low temperatures, oxygen scarcity and harsh terrain to ensure steady progress towards key milestones.
Commenting on the success of the installation, Weir managing director Angela Wang described the work as a significant achievement.
“The fact that Weir was able to do this at such a high-altitude site epitomises our commitment to being at the forefront of reliability in the mining industry,” she said.
The company’s pump optimisation director Elias Aho echoed this sentiment, outlining a wider strategic imperative to having pumps installed.
“With declining ore grades and increased demand, large mill pumps are increasingly playing a vital role in helping miners boost their throughput,” he said.
‘Delivering these solutions at high altitude sites has some significant engineering challenges, but Weir’s team of experts – drawing on decades of experience from across the globe – continues to be trusted by miners with their most critical mill circuit operations.”