Weir secures HPGR supply deal for Platreef expansion

Weir Group has been awarded a contract to supply its ENDURON high pressure grinding rolls (HPGR) to Ivanhoe Mines for use at the Platreef Mine, supporting the project’s Phase 2 expansion

The HPGR circuit will form part of the concentrator’s tertiary crushing stage. The decision to incorporate this technology draws on its proven performance at the Kamoa-Kakula Copper Complex, which Ivanhoe Mines operates in partnership with Zijin Mining.

Situated roughly 280 km northeast of Johannesburg, the Platreef Mine represents one of the largest undeveloped precious metals deposits globally. Phase 1 production commenced in November 2025, while Phase 2 is scheduled for completion by the end of 2027. Ivanhoe Mines is also planning a further expansion phase aimed at positioning Platreef among the world’s largest and lowest-cost producers of platinum group metals (PGMs).

ENDURON HPGR technology offers an energy-efficient comminution solution, using up to 40% less energy than conventional tumbling mills. This contributes to reduced operational costs and lower carbon emissions. The financial details of the contract have not been disclosed.

Bjorn Dierx, Weir, director of HPGR and Process, said, "Weir is delighted to be partnering with Ivanhoe Mines to supply our proven ENDURON HPGR technology. There has been a discernible trend in the mining sector towards reducing its environmental impact in recent years. The continued adoption of HPGR systems as the preferred solution for efficient, high-performance and sustainable ore processing provides one of the most significant opportunities in this regard."

"We have a large installed base of ENDURON HPGRs, and these orders reflect the strong confidence miners have in Weir’s advanced grinding technology and process expertise."

"Weir has always prioritised the service and support element of these partnerships. We understand the importance of being close to our customers and, in this case, we have a service centre less than 10km from the site to ensure we can provide immediate support during operations."

Steve Amos, Ivanhoe Mines, executive vice-president, projects, remarked, ‘HPGR technology is now fairly standard in the mining industry and has proven to be cost and energy efficient. Ivanhoe Mines has extensive HPGR operational experience gained from the three operating HPGRs at our Kamoa copper mine in DRC. We look forward to a successful and long-lasting partnership with Weir.’