Outotec has been awarded a contract by Shalina Resources Ltd for the delivery of copper and cobalt processing technology to the Mutoshi project near Kolwezi in the Democratic Republic of Congo. The order value, approximately EUR65 million, is booked in Outotec’s 2017 fourth quarter order intake.

Outotec’s scope includes basic engineering, technology and equipment deliveries for a new plant with an annual processing capacity of 20,000 t copper and 16,000 t cobalt. The plant will use Outotec’s modular hydrometallurgical solutions, such as OKTOP® reactors, VSF®X solvent extraction, and electrowinning. Outotec delivers also grinding mills, thickeners, filters, analysers and process control system. Outotec’s deliveries will take place during 2018.

Shalina Resources has two operating copper/cobalt plants at Etoile and Usoke. “We have formed strategic partnerships with key companies to help realize the potential of our operations, considering the project pipeline and the growing demand of copper and cobalt to the electric vehicle market. This contract regarding the Mutoshi project marks an important milestone in the realisation of this potential, and we look forward to working with Outotec as we continue on this path,” says Shiraz Virji, Chairman of the Shalina Group of Companies.

“We look forward to working with Shalina Resources in the Mutoshi project. We will be happy to deliver this wide and diverse technology package including our latest hydrometallurgical, modular concepts which are the most sustainable solutions available. The Mutoshi project will be a great reference for Outotec in the active African copper/cobalt market”, says Kalle Härkki, Head of Outotec’s Metals, Energy & Water business unit.