Metso has entered into an agreement to provide a comprehensive thickener modernization for a customer site in Chile. The objective of the modernization is to repower Metso’s thickeners to withstand higher throughput and operational demand, while increasing underflow density and subsequently increase water recovery. By increasing underflow density and water recovery rates, the modernization contributes to more sustainable mining operations while supporting customers' water stewardship and productivity objectives.
The total value of the order is around EUR 16 million, and it is the one of largest services orders Metso has received for a thickener modernization. The full order value is recorded in the Minerals segment's third-quarter orders received for 2026.
The scope of supply includes retrofitting three Metso high-rate thickeners (belonging to the Metso Plus portfolio) by repowering them with two new Metso’s SCD 4000 drives, new mechanisms and a redesigned high performing feed system for highly efficient thickener operation. The modernization is designed to maximize equipment use for changing conditions while improving water recovery.
“We are pleased to continue supporting our customer's operational development in Chile. Modernizing existing thickeners is an effective way to increase process performance and meet growing production demands while maximizing the value of installed assets. The project will support one of Chile's large-scale mining operations in meeting future production requirements while maximizing the value of existing infrastructure,” says Benjamin Lhorente, Vice President, Sales Chile & Argentina, Market Area South America.
“The collaboration underscores Metso’s role as a trusted solutions partner, advances the adoption of Metso Plus technologies and reinforces strong customer relationships in the region. We believe this modernization project will set a new industry benchmark for thickener performance, enabling more sustainable and productive mining operations,” says Felipe Bañados, Director, Product Sales Support, Dewatering.
Metso's comprehensive thickening and clarifying portfolio combines equipment, modernization solutions, services and process expertise to support customers throughout the lifecycle of their operations. Drawing on decades of experience in tailings and filtration technologies, Metso supports customers with solutions that improve water recovery and help address evolving operational requirements. Modernization solutions enable customers to upgrade existing assets with the latest technologies, adapt to changing production requirements, and improve performance, resource efficiency and asset utilization.
