Valmet will deliver and implement a Valmet DNA automation system for Sibanye-Stillwater’s Keliber lithium project concentrator in Kaustinen, Finland.
The order, received in the fourth quarter 2023, is planned for delivery in August 2025 and final acceptance in July 2026.
In its Keliber lithium project, Sibanye-Stillwater intends to produce battery-grade lithium hydroxide from its own mined ore reserves. The project consists of future mines, the concentrator in Kaustinen and a lithium refinery in Kokkola. Construction is ongoing at both plant sites.
Valmet’s DNA automation system was also chosen for the Keliber lithium refinery and is planned to be installed there this spring. The comprehensive system offers reliability through redundancy.
Arto Mäkinen, Sales Manager, Automation Systems at Valmet says, “We are delighted that Sibanye-Stillwater has placed its confidence in us once again by selecting Valmet DNA as the primary automation system for its Keliber lithium project concentrator as well. Using the same system for multiple sites allows automation engineers and maintenance staff to handle the system with a lot more ease and efficiency.” Mäkinen adds, “The field of battery chemicals presents a fascinating area for process development with significant potential looking to the future.”
Hannu Hautala, SVP, Keliber lithium project says too, “I am pleased we have again partnered with Valmet for the automation of the concentrator and am sure the process will be smooth. Our future integrated production, from mining to refining, will be unique in Europe and play a big role in the self-sufficiency of lithium supply for the battery industry in the region.”
Valmet will provide a total process control system for the concentrator, including Valmet DNA User Interface, tailored with Valmet User Experience Design Service. The system will also include a virtualised solution for Windows workstation, as well as Valmet DNA Condition Monitoring, a Valmet DNA Field Device Manager, Valmet DNA historian, an application simulation system and a training simulator interface. The delivery will contain a Valmet DNA DCS solution with built-in cybersecurity, plus Valmet hardware and Profinet fieldbuses.
To ensure proper running of the operations, user training is included in the project scope.
Valmet is a leading global developer and supplier of process technologies, automation and services mainly for the pulp, paper and energy industries. With its automation systems and flow control solutions it serves a wider base of process industries. Headquartered in Espoo, Finland, Valmet operates globally.
For more information visit: www.valmet.com
