IsaMill™ by Glencore Technology: A proven technology for efficient and reliable grinding
Brisbane, Australia
Since its introduction in the late 1990s, the IsaMill™ has transformed mineral processing by achieving ultra-fine grind sizes below 10 µm, unlocking previously untreatable orebodies. By the mid-2000s, advancements in ceramic media enabled the IsaMill™ to handle coarser feeds (up to 400 µm F80) using 6 mm media. With the recent availability of larger media (>6 mm), Glencore Technology is now exploring further applications for the IsaMill™.
With over 40 years of experience, Glencore Technology’s origins trace back to the demanding conditions of the Mount Isa Mines in Australia. The harsh environment and complex ore bodies challenged engineers and metallurgists to develop breakthrough solutions, shaping the company’s commitment to delivering robust and efficient technologies for the evolving mining sector.
Today, Glencore Technology’s innovations successfully implemented in some of the world’s largest mining sites, where they are relied upon daily to improve performance, reduce operational costs, and support sustainable mining practices.
One of Glencore Technology’s most significant technological breakthroughs was the IsaMill™, with it being the world’s only horizontal fine grinding mill. Delivering unmatched power intensity compared to ball and tower mills, this proven and reliable technology has achieved real-world success in more than 150 metalliferous installations across 23 countries, setting new benchmarks for efficiency and performance in mineral processing.
Designed for compactness and efficiency, the IsaMill™ is about a third of the height and weight of comparable mills, requiring minimal concrete and steel. Its simple open-circuit configuration ensures a narrow product distribution, while its horizontal slurry flow allows for the use of low-cost ceramic media, eliminating the limitations of vertical mills. Engineered for ease of operation and high availability, the IsaMill™ offers rapid and accurate scale-up, making it a predictable and reliable choice for operations.
With safety and reliability at its core, the IsaMill™ is quick to install, simple to maintain, and widely used in coal, base metals, PGMs, iron ore, gold processing, and industrial applications. It remains the optimal solution for regrinding concentrates, fine and ultrafine grinding, and is now expanding into secondary grinding duties.
With its proven performance, efficiency, and adaptability, the IsaMill™ has a bright future. As demand for sustainable and cost-effective mineral processing grows, Glencore Technology continues to enhance its capabilities, ensuring it remains a leader in grinding solutions—driving productivity, reducing costs, and minimizing environmental impact worldwide.
With a focus on enhancing efficiency and productivity, Glencore Technology delivers a range of cutting-edge technologies for mineral processing, leaching, smelting, and refining operations worldwide.
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