Russia-based leading global iron ore and hot briquetted iron (HBI) producer Metalloinvest has announced that it has started pilot operation of the concentrate intake facility at its subsidiary Mikhailovsky GOK, which will process the intake and unloading of Lebedinsky GOK’s iron ore concentrate, as well as the mixing of Mikhailovsky GOK’s and Lebedinsky GOK’s concentrate for the subsequent production of high-quality pellets. The maximum design capacity of the facility is 3.2 million mt of concentrate per year. During the facility’s pilot operation, the company specialists will adjust the equipment and operating models in order to operate at the design capacity levels.
According to the company’s statement, the new complex will ensure an increase in output of products including high value-added. High-quality pellets produced from a mixture of Mikhailovsky GOK’s and Lebedinsky GOK’s concentrate will be in demand in Russia, Europe and Asia, as well as due to environmental requirements. As a result, Metalloinvest will strengthen its position in the premium iron ore segment.
The intake facility for concentrate, constructed with an investment of RUB 1.3 billion ($22.62 million), has become an important production facility not only for Mikhailovsky GOK, but for the region as a whole. The number of employees at the new complex is approximately 100 people. The start of the facility's commercial operations is planned for the end of this year.