Central Mining and Processing Plant (Central GOK), a part of the Metinvest Group, has invested over UAH 11 million in the installation of a state-of-the-art MD-12 deslimer, aiming to enhance production efficiency at its concentrator.
Modernization to Meet Production Demands
The MD-12 deslimer replaces outdated equipment that no longer met production requirements. This upgrade is part of Central GOK's 2024 investment program, focused on improving production processes and maintaining stable operations. Deslimers play a critical role in iron ore beneficiation by separating non-magnetic particles from the primary product. Olexander Sidletsky, head of the concentrator, emphasized the importance of this modernization: “The MD-12 No. 11 deslimer is already operating under the main technological scheme, ensuring confidence in the plant's stable performance for 2025.”
Seamless Installation Amid Challenges
The replacement process required meticulous planning to avoid production disruptions. Temporary power line switches allowed operations to continue during the dismantling of the old equipment. Components such as motors, gearboxes, the main bridge, shaft, rake, and descaler vat were removed in stages, with the vat requiring dismantling into smaller parts due to its size. Installing the new MD-12 bridge was the most complex stage, completed using two cranes under the skilled guidance of operators Yulia Nikonenko and Oksana Bayrak. Hydraulic tests confirmed the structural integrity before the equipment was commissioned.
A Year of Progress at Central GOK
In 2024, Central GOK achieved near 100% capacity utilization, with the Kolachevsky mine reaching planned productivity. The company also introduced energy-efficient technologies to reduce production costs and energy intensity. Despite these advancements, Metinvest’s Q3 2024 production of iron ore concentrate fell 17% quarter-on-quarter to 3.35 million tonnes. Saleable iron ore products for the period totaled 3.23 million tonnes, including 1.85 million tonnes of concentrate and 1.38 million tonnes of pellets.
This new investment underscores Central GOK's commitment to technological innovation and sustainable production growth, paving the way for continued operational success.
