The 2.2 million tonnes per year underground mine and concentrator produces copper, zinc and lead concentrates, also containing limited amounts of gold and silver.
The mine's owner, Trafigura Mining Group, is planning to invest over €300 million in the asset over the next two years, creating one of the largest mining operations in Spain with the highest standards of production and innovative technology. As a result of this expansion, the life of the mine is expected to be extended to 15 years.
Recent exploration has discovered sufficient mineral seams to justify expansion. Because of this, a new treatment plant will be built over the next 24 months. The new plant can process twice the current amount of ore each year. The ore is exported from the ports of Huelva and Algeciras to northern Europe.
Metso has been closely involved in the Aguas Teñidas expansion project since the beginning, both on process design and sizing of the comminution and minerals processing equipment.
Metso's delivery comprises a new tertiary crushing plant system with two HP4 cone crushers; one MF 3.6 x 8.5 DD mining screen, and conveyors and all ancillaries. In addition, the delivery includes two 15.5' x 27' 3,000kW ball mills; ten SMD-355 E new-generation stirred media detritors and two VPA 1530-60 filters for dewatering of the zinc and lead concentrates. For the new tertiary crushing plant system, Metso's delivery includes basic and detailed engineering projects, the complete crushing system with erection and commissioning.
