Metso Automation will supply an automation system to Talvivaara Mining Co., which is constructing Europe’s largest nickel mine at Talvivaara in the Sotkamo region of Finland. Metso's delivery comprises metsoDNA CR automation and information system. The deliveries will take place in four phases beginning in January.

The Talvivaara production plant will include metals recovery lines, side processes, crushing and conveying operations, as well as pumping units. The monitoring and controls of all these processes will be centralized in Metso Automation’s system, in one central control room. The automation is based on the proven, state-of-the-art Fieldbus technology. The automation system, the intelligent MCC motor control centers, and the frequency converters will be linked with Profibus DP, and field instrumentation will be mostly based on Profibus PA.

The Talvivaara deposits represent one of Europe’s largest sulfide nickel resources known to date. This 266-million-ton ore reserve is anticipated to support production for about 25 years. When production starts in late 2008, the Talvivaara mine will produce approximately 33,000 tons of nickel per year, 60,000 tons of zinc, 10,000 tons of copper, and 1200 tons of cobalt as by-products. The metals will be extracted from the ore by a cost-efficient and eco-friendly bioheapleaching technology, utilizing natural bacteria in the process.

For further information, please contact Kari Heikkilä, Director, metsoDNA VAR and Minerals product group, at [email protected].