Tag Archives: Vale Base Metals

Vale Base Metals targets pyrrhotite with latest recovery innovation challenge

Base metals, Environmental, Mineral processing, Sustainable mining, , , ,

Vale Base Metals has launched the Pyrrhotite Resource Recovery Innovation Challenge to, it says, facilitate and enhance recovery of valuable metals and minerals contained in pyrrhotite.

The challenge reflects a commitment to driving innovative environmental solutions with a goal to identify and accelerate development of novel approaches to process low-grade pyrrhotite tailings, the solid remnants resulting from the mineral processing of sulphide ore.

Adam McMillan, Director of Research and Innovation for Vale Base Metals, said: “We’re committed to safely delivering critical minerals essential for the world’s energy transition and continued sustainable economic development. Open innovation is a key enabler that allows us to rapidly identify and trial innovative solutions that can help us unlock value from waste and we look forward to reviewing the innovative solutions this challenge inspires.”

Through this challenge, Vale Base Metals says it is inviting researchers, innovators and entrepreneurs to propose innovative technological solutions that can help to unlock value through circular mining while ensuring environmental responsibility.

Proposals will be evaluated until August 2024, with innovation laureates announced in September. Selected solutions will be awarded a prize of C$25,000 ($18,420) from Vale Base Metals.

For more information about the challenge and how to participate, click here

Epiroc and Vale enter into MoU focused on leveraging groundbreaking mining techniques

Automation, Base metals, Communications in mining, Environmental, Mining equipment, Mining safety, Mining services, Power supply for mines, Sustainable mining, , , , , ,

Epiroc Canada and Vale Base Metals Limited subsidiary Vale Canada Limited have announced a non-binding Memorandum of Understanding to develop, test and utilise groundbreaking mining techniques and equipment to strengthen safety processes and drive innovative mining solutions while enhancing productivity.

Under the agreement, the two organisations will collaborate to apply and adapt Epiroc’s solutions in automation, electrification and digitalisation across the underground mining cycle in areas from long-hole drilling to blasting, face drilling, bolting, mucking and hauling, the OEM says.

Sarah Hoffman, Vice President Sales & Marketing at Epiroc’s Underground division, said: “We are excited about our shared commitment with Vale Base Metals to accelerate the transformation of the mining industry through innovation that will keep pushing the benchmark of safety for workers, without compromising on productivity.”

Vale Base Metals plans to use Epiroc’s technology and digital advances in underground technology to remove employees from the rock face, production drilling areas and ground support locations in support of safe and efficient mining activities. This includes remote operation of Epiroc and mixed fleet OEM equipment in isolated zones. The companies will evaluate innovative electrification technologies such as charging, equipment usage, operational efficiency, as well as potential partnerships on novel technologies with potential for more widespread application, Epiroc says.

Luke Mahony, Interim Chief Technical Officer at Vale Base Metals, said: “This partnership with Epiroc will be an important step on our journey. Safety is a central pillar of our operations so we’re excited to develop solutions that strengthen our suite of available technologies to keep workers safe and drive overall efficiencies.”

Cedric Laney to help direct Vale Base Metals innovation roadmap

Base metals, Mining people, , , , ,

Cedric Laney has been appointed to the role of Principal Mining Engineer for surface mines at Vale’s Base Metals Technology and Innovation division, the company has confirmed.

In this role, Laney will lead the innovation roadmap, technical governance and engineering support for the Base Metals division’s surface mines. He will report to Samantha Espley, Head of Mining, Technology & Innovation for Vale Base Metals.

“This is a critical role to aid in guiding technical applications in the mines resulting in improved safety, sustainability, and profitability,” Espley said.

Laney has held several key leadership positions at Vale’s Goro operations in New Caledonia (pictured), most recently as the Manager for Mine Engineering and Construction and, last year, as the Mine Manager.

“His guidance and knowledge over the last seven years has been instrumental to bring success to the team in Goro,” Espley said, adding, “He will be missed by his many colleagues there.”