Almonty Sangdong Mine is a Game-Changer for Global Tungsten Supply
Almonty Industries Inc. has taken a major leap forward in its mission to redefine the global tungsten supply chain. With the installation of advanced grinding equipment from Metso Corporation at its Sangdong tungsten mine in South Korea, the project moves closer to full-scale operations.
This critical development is set to challenge China’s dominance in the tungsten market, offering a reliable alternative source for this indispensable mineral.
Almonty’s Chairman, President, and CEO, Lewis Black, shared his appreciation for Metso’s role, stating: “We sincerely appreciate Metso and its specialized professionals for their dedicated effort and hard work in delivering this significant engineering output, applying their unparalleled experience and expertise in the mining industry to develop the most optimal design criteria for the equipment and processing at the Sangdong plant.”
This partnership underscores the importance of precision engineering in ensuring the project’s success.
The Heart of Sangdong’s Processing Plant
Central to Sangdong’s capabilities are Metso’s semi-autogenous grinding (SAG) mill and ball mill. These state-of-the-art machines are engineered to process tungsten ore with unmatched efficiency and accuracy. Such precision is vital for meeting the exact specifications required for downstream operations, ensuring the highest quality output.
Key Features of the Installation:
- Precision Engineering: Metso is handling every detail of the installation, from site preparation to commissioning. Their team emphasised the critical importance of aligning machinery to tolerances as tight as 0.008 mm/m, a precision level that guarantees operational stability and maximises equipment longevity.
- Safety and Compliance: Rigorous adherence to international mining standards and local regulations is a top priority. Safety protocols are meticulously enforced to protect personnel and the environment during installation and future operations.
- Advanced Testing: By incorporating bolt tension tests, stress analyses, and proprietary installation manuals, Metso ensures the equipment will operate reliably for years. This meticulous approach reflects the company’s commitment to excellence.
Redefining Global Tungsten Supply Chains
The Sangdong mine represents more than just a technological achievement—it’s a pivotal step in reshaping the global tungsten market. Currently, China controls over 80% of the world’s tungsten supply, creating vulnerabilities for industries dependent on this critical mineral. By bringing the Sangdong mine online, Almonty is addressing these challenges head-on.
“This milestone underscores our commitment to bringing Sangdong online as a world-class source of tungsten. We are grateful for Metso’s expertise and partnership in this critical phase of the project, which reinforces our mission to reshape global supply dynamics for this essential material,” added Almonty CEO Lewis Black.
Tungsten’s Role Across Industries:
- Defence: High-density applications, including armour-piercing ammunition.
- Advanced Manufacturing: Essential for precision machining and electronics.
- Aerospace: Used in jet engines and other high-temperature environments.
As demand for tungsten rises, Sangdong is positioned to play a leading role in securing an independent supply for these industries.
A Collaborative Effort for Longevity
The installation process is not merely a technical endeavour; it’s a strategic one. Metso’s approach includes not only the setup of machinery but also the training of local teams to maintain and optimise the equipment. This knowledge transfer ensures that Sangdong will remain operationally reliable long after the project’s completion.
Long-Term Benefits of Metso’s Involvement:
- Minimised Disruptions: Efficient installation with minimal impact on the project timeline.
- Operational Expertise: Ongoing training for local personnel to maximise performance.
- Sustainability: Compliance with environmental standards to mitigate long-term ecological impact.
The close collaboration between Metso and Almonty reflects a shared commitment to excellence, ensuring Sangdong’s success as a benchmark in the industry.
A Leader in Tungsten Mining
Headquartered in Toronto, Canada, Almonty Industries Inc. is a global leader in tungsten mining, processing, and shipping. Its projects span Spain, Portugal, and South Korea, with the Sangdong Mine standing out as one of the largest high-grade tungsten deposits outside China.
Additionally, Almonty is advancing the Valtreixal tin/tungsten project in Spain, reinforcing its reputation as a trailblazer in critical minerals.
Almonty’s Global Footprint:
- Sangdong Mine, South Korea: A cornerstone for diversifying global tungsten supply.
- Valtreixal Project, Spain: A promising tin/tungsten development.
- European Operations: Established tungsten mining in Spain and Portugal.
With a clear focus on innovation and sustainability, Almonty continues to push boundaries in the mining sector.
Sangdong’s Global Impact
As industries grapple with supply chain vulnerabilities, projects like Sangdong are more important than ever. The mine not only addresses the immediate need for tungsten but also sets a precedent for how mining operations can align with global sustainability and resilience goals. Through its partnership with Metso, Almonty has showcased how technological innovation and international collaboration can drive transformative change.
With full-scale operations on the horizon, Sangdong promises to be a linchpin in the global tungsten market, providing industries with a dependable, high-quality supply while reducing reliance on China. This milestone is not just a win for Almonty but a significant step forward for the entire sector.
Positive Momentum for the Future
As the Sangdong project approaches operational readiness, it represents a beacon of innovation and resilience in a rapidly evolving world. Almonty’s dedication to precision, safety, and collaboration sets a high bar for the mining industry.
This is more than a mining milestone—it’s a defining moment for the future of tungsten supply chains.
