How important is Africa in FLS’ growth journey and what are the main market trends you observe in 2024?

Africa is becoming more relevant than ever as the global demand for responsibly sourced mineral resources is ever increasing and the continent abounds with these critical natural resources. 

For example, to reach 100% renewable energy, the world will need as much copper over the next two decades as has been extracted since the dawn of civilization. Global lithium demand is also forecasted to double between 2025 and 2030.

Given Africa’s comparatively lower mining costs and the superior grade resources found across the continent, I believe the world will turn its attention to projects in West Africa (Mali, Burkina Faso, Ghana, Mauritania) as well as Central and Southern Africa. This presents exciting opportunities for FLS in Africa as we continue to expand our presence and support the region’s growing role in the global minerals market. 

FLS has set out a target to provide zero-emission solutions to the mining sector by 2030. Could you walk us through these ambitions and the kind of product innovations you are bringing to the market?

With the increasing mining activity in Africa, it is fundamental to ensure that these minerals are produced more sustainably and in a timely manner for a successful transition, as mining accounts for approximately 3.5% of total global energy consumption and is one of the most water-intensive industries.

Our approach involves identifying and quantifying opportunities to improve sustainability across the entire flowsheet, together with delivering operational and financial benefits. These efforts are driving incremental changes today while also supporting the development of our MissionZero mine flowsheets, aiming at zero energy waste, zero water waste and supporting the decarbonisation efforts of the industry.

Our strategy is already yielding tangible results. For example, FLS’ LoadIQ mill scanning technology optimizes mill loading to make the most of the energy used in grinding and ultimately achieve the best results at the lowest costs. At a copper mine in the US where we applied this technology, we saw a 10% throughput increase, an 8% energy reduction, and a 9% reduction in the energy-per-ton of copper produced. LoadIQ leverages data to improve and optimize the performance of the equipment, both in terms of productivity and profitability.

Another example is our filtration technology, which was applied at an Australian iron ore mine. By upgrading the mine’s horizontal belt filters to operate with blowers and roller belt supports compared to the previous vacuum pumps and air deck belt systems we achieved a 29% energy savings and consequent a 29% CO2 reductions and water savings of 383,162 m3/year. The roller deck systems also entail lower maintenance downtime, indirectly supporting higher production rates. 

Lastly, across the full flowsheet, the most energy-intensive processes are crushing and grinding. We developed the HPGR/HPGR Pro for a more efficient and sustainable comminution. This advanced technology delivers up to 20% higher throughput while reducing energy consumption by up to 15% and extending roller life by up to 30%. With a Centre of Excellence for HPGRs established in the continent, this technology is already in use at mining sites across Europe and around the world.

Some say local support in Africa is even more important than in other jurisdictions. Do you agree and if so, why?

FLS is fully committed to maintaining a strong local presence with robust capabilities across Africa and beyond. In Africa, the local content laws and the logistical challenges of traveling between countries make it even more crucial to stay closely connected with your partners and respond quickly when needed. At FLS, we support a mine throughout its entire lifecycle, so it’s essential that we are on the ground to deliver the highest level of service and achieve optimal results. 

Do you have a concluding message for our international readers?

FLS is engaged in the latest developments in mining, leveraging our technology, R&D efforts and resources to drive more sustainable practices. We empower the future of mining and are evolving together with the mining industry, and beyond providing products, delivering comprehensive solutions and services enhancing the productivity and profitability of our partners. We support miners’ evolving needs and drive proven innovation to uncover opportunities for tomorrow’s mine.