Boliden, a copper and nickel processing company, needed a system capable of managing large quantities of incoming concentrate at its raw material warehouse in the port of Harjavalta, Pori. As reliable measurement data is a key part of determining the commercial value of valuable materials, the system had to combine material flow management and commercial weighing with maximum accuracy. Tamtron Precision responded to this need with a technically exceptional solution that exceeded expectations.
Commercial weighing of raw materials with customer needs in mind
When Boliden Harjavalta revamped its logistics chain, the commercial weighing of concentrates was transferred to the port of Mäntyluoto in Pori. The new system had to move and weigh large quantities of copper and nickel concentrates accurately, reliably, and without interruption.
– We first wondered whether continuous material flow management would be challenging, but Tamtron’s solutions quickly proved our concerns unfounded. The whole system has met our needs perfectly,” says Joni Joensuu, responsible for Boliden Harjavalta’s sampling operations at the port.
Tamtron’s delivery includes a distribution device, two summing belt scales, statically weighed wide belt conveyors, a control system, and test weights. The continuous weighing system based on static weighing is suitable for commercial use.
An exceptional solution for concentrate flow control
Jari Haraholma, Sales Manager at Tamtron, explains that although Boliden’s system delivery is not unique, it is at least exceptional. Its special feature is the batch-type process. With two statically weighed conveyors and precisely timed alternating loading and emptying, a capacity of up to 1,200 tonnes per hour can be achieved.
– The conveyors are designed to be short but wide, which enables large quantities of material to be handled accurately and quickly. All ancillary solutions – such as dust control, automatic control, and prevention of wet concentrate sticking through the right choice of materials – have also been implemented to meet customer requirements.
Haraholma also highlights the memorable delivery phase as one of the project’s highlights.
“The system was installed in a tall structure, which posed challenges for lifting and installation logistics, but everything went smoothly with skilled operators.
Precision in the billion-dollar range
Weighing accuracy is a key factor in Boliden’s business. Metal content and weight determine the purchase price of concentrates, and the industry deals in billions.
“The material is very valuable, so even small deviations in weighing can quickly add up to large sums. This makes weighing a critical part of the entire value chain,” says Joni Joensuu.
Tamtron’s system meets the high accuracy requirements, and its operation is strictly monitored: Boliden conducts its tests every three months, and official legal verification of the scales is carried out every three years.
“We naturally have very high requirements, but Tamtron’s system has met them. Based on the tests, the weighing accuracy has been excellent,” says Joensuu.
Accurate control of material flows supports responsible operations
The closed system also supports Boliden’s responsibility efforts and reliable process control. The solution has improved the working environment and the efficiency of material flows.
“The entire equipment package is built as a closed system, and dust control has been implemented excellently. This has significantly reduced dust emissions and improved the working environment,” says Joensuu.
In addition, Tamtron’s system provides accurate weighing data for each concentrate batch, which is automatically stored and can be traced back to individual delivery batches. This enables reliable inspection in exceptional situations, enhances the transparency of the supply chain, and supports Boliden’s position as a responsible player in the international metal market.
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