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Metals And Mining Review: Specials Magazine
The evolution of metal-forming is a testament to human ingenuity. In contrast to where it began, with copper yielding to the force of stone hammers, the industry is now powered by cutting-edge technologies. Weaving a narrative that celebrates innovation, forgers today continue to unlock next-gen production capabilities using powerful tech. With a reputation for using innovation to achieve manufacturing perfection in metal forming, Suetake Industrial defines industry standards and sets a new benchmark for excellence in Japan. Harnessing the power of fiber laser technology, it provides optimal solutions for distinct projects across various industries. The company blends technological innovation, customer-centric approaches and strategic management to develop custom designs and advanced metal processing techniques. Rooted in Meticulous Attention to Detail The company’s genesis was in 1955, when its predecessor was commissioned to pave the walkways within a new stainless steel manufacturing plant, Shunan Steel Works of Nisshin Steel, in Shunan City, Japan. Receiving high praise for exceptional precision in laying, fixing and finishing the blocks, Suetake gained a reputation as a partner focused on diligent work, safety compliance and attention to detail. Soon, the company’s work expanded into a more diversified role in core steel manufacturing processes like machine installation and piping infrastructure implementation. It was also entrusted with tasks like repairing ingot cases, overseeing continuous forging equipment and maintaining electric furnaces. This project was game-changing for Suetake as it unlocked an opportunity to support metal forging processes and bring added value as a metal processing manufacturer. Over time, it carved a niche in the industry as the demand for stainless steel and metal-related services surged. This entry into metal processing transformed the company’s trajectory and redefined its purpose. Preserving a sense of gratitude toward its roots, the company regularly maintains the original Shunan City plant, now owned by NIPPON STEEL Stainless Steel Corporation, which has evolved into one of Japan’s leading stainless steel manufacturing sites. Suetake’s journey is an inspiring narrative of resilience, adaptability and the transformative power within unforeseen opportunities. ...Read more
Metal Recycling Companies
A leader in the metal recycling industry, Kaneda Shouji is dedicated to protecting the environment and advancing resource efficiency. The company specializes in purchasing and recycling scrap metal, considering it a valuable resource instead of mere waste. It recognizes the active role metals play in various industries and their immense potential. A legacy spanning 70 years, Kaneda Shouji boasts a wealth of experience, knowledge, and technological expertise in scrap metal disposal. A key part of its success is the dedicated workforce that takes charge from initial proposal to final execution, ensuring a seamless and reliable service throughout an engagement. It aims to effectively revive metal for reuse by ensuring that scrap materials are placed into appropriate recycling flows. This emphasizes the semi-permanent recyclability of metals, making it a sustainable choice for corporations, sole proprietors, and ordinary households. Driven by licenses for antique dealing and industrial waste collection and transportation, the company goes beyond the requirements of a standard scrap metal dealer. It assesses the value of items perceived as waste and encourages customers to view them as reusable goods or valuable materials. In every case, Kaneda Shouji proposes purchase over disposal, benefitting clients by saving time and resources while contributing to a circular economy that alleviates the strain on natural resources. ...Read more
Nickel Ore Mining
In the Philippines, where mining is often viewed as incompatible with environmental sustainability, Nickel Asia Corporation (NAC) is proving that it’s possible for the industry to embrace responsible practices and thrive while doing so. As the country’s largest nickel producer, it has become a model for mining companies that want to adopt environmental, social and governance (ESG) principles without compromising operational efficiency. Sustainability is not just a corporate buzzword for NAC, it’s a comprehensive journey to change the narrative around mining. “There’s a general perception in the Philippines that mining and sustainability contradict each other,” says Jose Bayani D. Baylon, senior vice president, chief risk officer and chief sustainability officer. “But this journey is essential for Nickel Asia and the industry at large. We believe mining should only take place if it’s responsible and aligned with the principles of ESG.” A Leader Committed to Innovation and Emissions Reduction Nickel Asia’s commitment to sustainability is evident in its mining techniques and innovations. While surface mining is the primary method used to extract nickel ore, NAC has significantly reduced its environmental footprint. At one of its sites, the company introduced a conveyor belt system that spans nearly three kilometers, eliminating the need for diesel-powered trucks traditionally used to transport ore. This innovation resulted in lower greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions and enhanced safety standards—an industry first in the Philippines mining sector. In its continued effort to cut emissions, NAC recently began testing hybrid heavy equipment at several mining sites. This pilot program aligns with the company’s carbon reduction goals and is part of a broader strategy to measure and improve operational sustainability. These innovations showcase NAC's dedication to minimizing environmental impact while maintaining efficient, large-scale operations. Sustainability Powered by Community-Centered Operations Beyond its operational advances, NAC places immense importance on the well-being of the communities surrounding its mines. Rather than relying only on physical security, NAC's perimeter fencing is, in fact, its relationship with local communities. ...Read more
Low Cost Nickel Production
The world’s largest pure-play nickel producer, Nickel Industries, is an ASX-listed company with a solid reputation in the global metals and mining sector. Building on this, it is now embarking on a bold new chapter—one defined by ambitious innovation and strategic product diversification. “We are redefining the landscape of nickel production, not just in scale but in our strategic drive toward the burgeoning electric vehicle (EV) and battery markets,” says Justin Werner, managing director. The Excelsior Nickel-Cobalt Project Shifting from its roots as a nickel pig iron (NPI) producer for the stainless-steel industry, Nickel Industries is continuing to add high-pressure acid leach (HPAL) production to its portfolio mix. Having acquired a 10 percent interest in the operational Huayou Nickel Cobalt (HNC) HPAL Project in 2023, the company is continuing its diversification into HPAL production with the Excelsior Nickel-Cobalt (ENC) Project. It is a groundbreaking US$2.3 billion investment that heralds a new era for the business. Slated to come online in October 2025, this initiative will be the first-of-its-kind HPAL operation to produce three critical Class 1 and intermediate nickel products; mixed hydroxide precipitate (MHP), nickel cathode, and nickel and cobalt sulfate. With this move, Nickel Industries is expanding its reach into high-growth markets, distinguishing itself as the largest and most diversified listed nickel producer. ...Read more
CXO INSIGHTS
Sustainable Scandium Extraction Valued in Aluminium-Scandium Alloys
Jerome Fourmann, Senior Director - Metals & Minerals, Rio Tinto
Innovation and Sustainability: Stainless Steel Solutions for the Mining Industry
Paulo Novaes, COO APERAM Recycling & S&S Americas, Aperam South America
Enabling a Remote Controlled Mining
Marius Van Tonder, IT Infrastructure Manager, Fraser Alexander
Green Transformation Reshapes The Steel Industry Worldwide
Dr. Alexander Fleischanderl, Chief Technology Officer, Primetals Technologies
Understanding Mining Project Management
Ken Reindl, General Manager Corporate Accounts Mining, Dyno Nobel
Effective Recycling of Refractories
Fernanda Silveira, Head of End-to-End Recycling South America | Sustainability, RHI Magnesita [LON: RHIM]
How to Make the Most of your Process Failure Mode and Effects Analysis
Monte Heisler, Director, Manufacturing Quality, North American Stamping Group
Viewing Change Management through the People-Centric Lens
Isabel Montes, People Vice President, Newmont Corporation
Constructability Analysis and Its Impacts on Building Systems
Cody Whitelock, Director of Innovation and Professional Development, Barnhill Contracting Company
IN FOCUS
APAC's Role in Advancing Secondary Nickel Production
The rising demand for nickel, coupled with environmental and economic considerations, underscores the growing importance of secondary nickel sources. As technology advances and recycling systems mature, these sources will play an increasingly critical role in meeting global nickel requirements.
APAC's Strategic Shift in Raw Material Sourcing
The APAC region is exploring asteroid mining and deep-sea resources to meet rising demand for critical minerals, driven by technological advances and investment, amidst regulatory challenges and environmental concerns.
EDITORIAL
Reimagining Metals and Mining for Tomorrow
Modern metals and mining operations are at the forefront of building a more resilient, efficient and sustainable industrial landscape. From extraction and processing to treatment and recovery, today’s technologies are helping the sector meet stricter compliance requirements, extend the life of materials and reduce environmental impact, all while enhancing performance and durability.
Innovation is transforming how the industry achieves these outcomes. Digital technologies, including AI-powered sorting, sensor-based material classification and data-driven process monitoring, are enabling smarter, more precise operations that boost material recovery and improve resource use. Energy-efficient systems and modern plant designs are helping to cut emissions and reduce environmental impact. Advances in automation are further streamlining processes, improving safety and giving operators the flexibility to adapt to changing market and regulatory demands.
This edition of Metals and Mining Review examines how emerging technologies and fresh approaches are reshaping the future of the industry with a focus on long-term resilience and sustainability. It features insights from Tom Hethmon, senior manager of risk & safety assurance at Anglo American, who emphasizes that sustainable safety and health in mining depends on stronger leadership, risk-based management and greater global collaboration to share best practices and protect all workers. Jian Zhou, Ph.D., manager of corporate metallurgical engineering at Cummins, shares how breakthroughs in metal alloys and additive manufacturing are helping deliver cleaner, stronger engines that support decarbonization efforts.
We hope this edition offers meaningful perspectives on how collaboration and technological progress are driving positive change across the metals and mining industry. Let us know your thoughts!
