Metso Outotec has signed an agreement with Florence Copper Inc, a subsidiary of Taseko Mines Ltd, to supply copper solvent extraction and electrowinning technology for a plant to be built in Arizona, USA.

The order, exceeding €20 million ($24 million), has been booked in the Metals’ segment September quarter orders received.

The Metso Outotec delivery includes the modular VSF®X solvent extraction plant and the main process equipment for the electrowinning plant.

“We are very excited to have purchased the key SX/EW process equipment from Metso Outotec, a world leader in mineral processing and hydrometallurgical technologies,” Stuart McDonald, President and CEO of Taseko Mines, says. “The VSFX technology is ideally suited for our Florence Copper Project, which is set to become one of the most energy-efficient and low-carbon copper producers in the world. The modular nature of the equipment will reduce construction time and allow Florence to commence copper production quicker than with other technologies available.”

Back in February, Taseko, having just completed a $400 million bond refinancing and fundraising program, said it was moving forward with developing a commercial operation at its Florence in-situ recovery project.

Jari Ålgars, President of the Metals business area at Metso Outotec, says: “We are looking forward to working with Taseko Mines on the Florence Copper Project. The energy-efficient VSFX solvent extraction plant, which is part of our Planet Positive product range, reduces emissions and is safe to operate. The Florence Copper Project will become an important new reference for Metso Outotec in the US copper market as a supplier of a complete production plant that uses solvent extraction and electrowinning technology for copper recovery.”