:: ISA PROCESS^® Selected for Spence Project in Chile

Xstrata Technology’s ISA PROCESS^® has been chosen for technology and equipment supply for the 200,000 tonnes per annum copper tankhouse at Compania Minera Riochilex’s (BHP Billiton) state of the art Spence Project in Chile. Xstrata Technology's successful bid confirms ISA PROCESS^® as the technology of choice for copper electrowinning.

The ISA PROCESS^TM package includes the proven ISA Cathode BR, designed for lowest resistance, and the ISA PROCESS^® Cathode Washing and Stripping Machine system incorporating a number of technical innovations specifically engineered for the Spence Project.

MESCO of Japan have been contracted to manufacture the ISA PROCESS^® Cathode Stripping Machines and have worked with ISA PROCESS^® for over 20 years. The Spence Project will be the 60th ISA PROCESS^® licencee, a group that boasts world leading electrowinning and electrorefining facilities in over 21 countries.

The technology is used to produce over 5 million tonnes of copper cathode annually. ISA PROCESS^® was chosen over other suppliers and offers a unique combination of design and technical expertise built on many years of tankhouse operations experience. The combination ensures technology packages are proven and practical for the operating environment. Xstrata Technology looks forward to working with Aker Kaverner and BHP Billiton in delivering the Spence project.