Outokumpu delivers about 4,000tns of LDX 2404 duplex stainless steel for the Husab uranium mine project in Namibia, Africa. Outokumpu stainless steel will be used in tanks, pressure vessels, clarifiers and columns. The deliveries have started and they will continue until September 2014.
The Husab Mine project is owned by Swakop Uranium and the project is led by Husab Project Joint Venture. Once completed, Husab will be one of the three largest uranium mines in the world.
Chris Tsai from Swakop’s majority shareholder China General Nuclear Power Corporation comments “Leaching and counter current decantation processes as well as tanks fabricated at the site are one of the critical parts of the Husab project. Based on the excellent corrosion resistance, LDX 2404 has been chosen as the main construction material for the main body of tanks.”
“The Outokumpu LDX 2404 is the most suitable grade for this project due to its superior combination of corrosion and wear resistance and excellent mechanical properties. The wear resistance in particular is important, as the processed slurry contains high amounts of solid material. For the customer, LDX 2404 also gives clear benefits, such as lower overall cost. The grade enables thinner tank walls, requiring less material. Outokumpu delivers 2 meter wide stainless steel which results in less welding and fewer plates to manage. Furthermore, the expected lifecycle cost is low, since stainless steel requires very little maintenance,” says Johan Karlsson, General Manager of Outokumpu in South Africa.
FLSmidth is the engineering company that designed the first tanks for the Husab project. Pedro Miguel Teixeira from FLSmidth comments “The cooperation with Outokumpu has worked well. Delivery was done on time and the quality of the product and service has been extremely professional.”
Michael van Kan from Husab Project Joint Venture says “It was crucial for the project to select the right grade to ensure the optimal mix of strength and corrosion resistance for the process requirements. Outokumpu provided the Husab project with world class service from grade selection advice to technical support for the products. Husab Project Joint Venture will recommend Outokumpu for the supply of stainless steel because they offer a quality product with excellent service backup.”