Automation to be supplied hydrometallurgical plant

The order is included in Valmet’s orders received of the fourth quarter 2021. The value of the order will not be disclosed. The delivery will take place in June 2022.

“It is important for us to ensure high plant availability and remove all potential risks. We chose Valmet DNA technology because it enables us to be constantly aware of the process status,” said Tero Holländer, Head of Business Line Batteries, Fortum.

“Valmet is proud to be involved in this project that will help meet the rising demand for recycled battery materials and enable the sustainable recovery of materials essential in the manufacturing of new electric vehicle batteries. We are currently carrying out comprehensive research and development on the traceability and optimisation of processes. This enables us to bring greater value in the future to the advancement of supply chain traceability and the production of battery minerals, for example,” said Arto Mäkinen, Sales Manager, Automation, Valmet.

Lithium-ion batteries are first disassembled and treated during a mechanical process at Fortum’s plant in Ikaalinen. The battery’s black mass, containing critical metals, is collected and then taken to Harjavalta for hydrometallurgical processing that will be controlled with Valmet’s automation technology.

Technical information about Valmet’s delivery

Valmet’s delivery includes a Valmet DNA Automation System with an integrated information management system and a HIMA safety system, installation, commissioning and training.

Valmet DNA Automation System is equipped with a web-based Valmet DNA User Interface that extends the use of the automation system beyond traditional remote operations. Built with the latest web technologies, it comes with a secure web-based access that enables the plant teams to access relevant information whenever they need it, regardless of their location.

About the customer Fortum

Fortum is a European energy company with activities in more than 40 countries and with close to 20,000 professionals. It provides its customers with electricity, gas, heating and cooling as well as smart solutions to improve resource efficiency. Together with its subsidiary Uniper, Fortum is the third largest producer of CO₂-free electricity in Europe. The company is headquartered in Espoo, Finland.