Can you introduce us to Magotteaux?

Magotteaux is a global leader in wear-resistant solutions and process optimization for the mining and cement industries. In addition to our products, we provide expert advice, services, and resources, including equipment and systems. Magotteaux utilizes relevant tools to help customers optimize their operations, recover more valuable minerals, and deliver their final products at the best total cost of ownership, all while minimizing environmental impact.

While we have a strong presence in markets like Australia, where we hold around 30% of the market share, Saudi Arabia is a key focus for future expansion. Though our footprint in KSA has been relatively small, the country’s rapidly growing mining sector offers significant opportunities. Leveraging our deep experience in hard rock mining from regions like Australia, Chile, South Africa and Canada, we are well-positioned to support Saudi Arabia’s growth in both the mining and cement industries.

How can your products reduce energy consumption?

Besides our core products, such as all types of grinding media, we offer specialized solutions like MagoSense, MagoPulp, and MagoFloat, designed to help customers streamline processes and minimize energy use. This approach supports both environmental and economic sustainability goals. Energy costs, alongside declining ore grades, are a significant concern in mining. Our solutions aim to reduce these costs while advancing sustainability objectives. By improving energy efficiency and performance, we help customers cut operational costs and their environmental footprint, strengthening our partnerships and meeting their evolving needs.

Beyond offering advanced products, we leverage our expertise to assess the impact of our solutions on customers' downstream processes. We look beyond the milling circuit to optimize mineral recovery, ultimately boosting our customers' revenue. This holistic approach to plant optimization has been key to our success in regions like Australia and can be applied to the mining industry in other parts of the world.

What is Magotteaux's experience and plans to expand in KSA?

We have developed strong relationships with key mining customers in Saudi Arabia, including Ma'aden at its gold and phosphate operations, AMAK, and ASK Gypsum. These partnerships provide a solid foundation for expanding our market presence and introducing cutting-edge technologies. While we typically engage once operations are underway or construction is in progress, we are also closely monitoring emerging junior mining projects. As Saudi Arabia's mining sector becomes a cornerstone of its future, we are positioning ourselves to grow alongside it.

What advantages do you gain by being part of Sigdo Koppers, particularly in the context of the “mine-to-mill” approach?

Our collaboration with Enaex, a leading explosives provider in South America and Australia which is part of our holding company Sigdo Koppers, gives us a unique advantage, enabling us to explore innovative concepts like the "mine-to-mill" approach. We are currently piloting this with major companies such as Vale in Brazil and selected projects in Australia. The concept is both simple and powerful: by optimizing blasting techniques in the mine to improve rock fragmentation, we can enhance the efficiency of downstream milling and mineral recovery. This integrated approach not only boosts operational efficiency but also drives increased revenue for customers, whether they are mining gold, copper, or other minerals.

Although still in its early stages, the mine-to-mill concept holds tremendous potential for regions like Saudi Arabia. By optimizing the entire supply chain—from blasting to milling and beyond—every step contributes to better cost management, reduced energy consumption, and improved metal recovery. 

As we continue to refine this approach, we aim to introduce these cutting-edge solutions to new markets, offering a competitive edge that few can match. By combining our expertise in both mining and milling, we are paving the way for a more efficient and sustainable future in the mining industry.

What are the main pillars of Magotteaux's business strategy?

At Magotteaux, we continually advance new technologies and materials to push industry boundaries. A prime example is our EXPAND technology, which incorporates ceramic materials into our castings using Metal Matrix Composite (MMC) technology. This enhances product durability, extends equipment lifespans, and reduces energy consumption, helping customers maximize performance and lower costs.

Digitalization is another key focus, with tools like MagoSense and MagoPulp enabling real-time monitoring and process optimization. These technologies provide data-driven insights that help customers improve efficiency, boost productivity, and make informed decisions.

Sustainability is the third pillar of our strategy. We are committed to reducing our carbon footprint in line with Science-Based Targets Initiative (SBTi) goals. Sustainability not only minimizes environmental impact but also delivers long-term value to our clients and communities. We strive to create a greener future for the mining and cement industries.

Energy optimization is another critical focus, especially in regions like Saudi Arabia, where remote operations present unique challenges. By improving energy efficiency, we help reduce costs and address these challenges, supporting both economic and environmental sustainability.