The organization is a European leader in the production of strategic metals used in battery manufacturing, particularly nickel sulfate.
It operates a large-capacity open-pit mine, utilizing advanced technologies such as bioleaching to optimize metal recovery from low-grade ores.
Its production model combines operational efficiency, technological innovation, and sustainability, making it one of the operations with the lowest carbon footprint in its sector.
The main challenge was to maximize the efficiency of the heap leaching process, which is key to the recovery of metals such as nickel, copper, zinc, and cobalt.
To achieve this, it was necessary to have a highly reliable drip irrigation system capable of operating under demanding conditions and minimizing clogging problems in the emitters.
In addition, the natural wear and tear on the drip lines made it necessary to replace them periodically. This process It had to be done quickly and efficiently to avoid disruptions in operations, since any downtime directly impacts productivity.
Another critical factor was the continuous availability of materials. The operation required large volumes of drip lines year-round, so any supply issue posed a significant risk, with potential financial losses associated with an interruption in the production process.
AZUD provided a solution based on the installation of drip lines AZUD DRIP, designed to deliver high performance in demanding industrial applications.
These lines incorporate the DS technology, which improves resistance to clogging and increases the durability of the emitters, ensuring continuous and reliable operation over long periods of time.
In addition, an identification system was implemented using color coding in the drip lines. This made it easier to install and replace them correctly, preventing errors in the connections between the inlet and outlet manifolds, and optimizing maintenance times.
The solution was complemented by a logistics plan tailored to the customer’s needs, ensuring the product’s constant availability
At AZUD, we understand that operational continuity and efficiency are key in demanding industrial processes. This case study demonstrates how the right technical solution can make all the difference:
