Challenge

Lithium Demand on the Rise

SQM, a prominent lithium-producing company in Chile, faced significant challenges as a result of the global shift towards a cleaner and sustainable economy driven by electromobility. With lithium playing a crucial role in battery manufacturing, the demand for this mineral was expected to soar, making it a desirable resource worldwide. As the second country with the largest lithium reserves globally, Chile found itself in the spotlight of global markets.

The challenges for SQM included increasing production but also improving efficiency and addressing environmental responsibilities. As the mining industry evolved rapidly, new technologies were necessary to meet current and future challenges.

Solution

Revolutionizing Lithium Mining: ANDRITZ's Comprehensive Technological Solution for SQM's Future-Ready Operations

ANDRITZ, as a strategic technological partner for SQM, provided an innovative and comprehensive solution to address the challenges in lithium mining. The solution centered around a phased technological transformation that incorporated crucial aspects such as asset management, automation, optimization, and the integration of digital twins.

Asset Management and Automation

The initial focus of the solution was on plant asset management, targeting essential physical assets like centrifuges, belt filters, drum filters, filter presses, compactors, and motors. ANDRITZ implemented Metris, a cutting-edge solution designed for the digitalization and optimization of processes. This platform offered a range of functionalities, with a standout feature being its asset management capability. Metris enabled real-time monitoring, generated intelligent indicators, and provided key information for both reactive and predictive responses. By adopting Metris, SQM gained a proactive and data-driven approach to maintenance, facilitating a transition towards more intelligent, informed, and fully digitalized maintenance practices.

Integration of Digital Twins

Another pivotal element of ANDRITZ's solution was the integration of Digital Twin technology. Recognizing the specific challenges at SQM's PQLC plant, particularly related to stability and accuracy in density measurements, ANDRITZ recommended the adoption of Digital Twins. These advanced simulations could accurately infer real-time measurements, eliminating redundancies and enhancing accuracy in indirect measurements. By integrating simulated measurements with those obtained in the plant, the data accuracy was significantly strengthened. This step played a crucial role in boosting the efficiency of existing automation and optimization systems, paving the way for a more advanced and precise operational environment.

Progressive Strategy and Autonomous Technology

ANDRITZ, in collaboration with SQM, adopted a progressive strategy towards total autonomy in lithium extraction and processing. The impact of autonomous technology, ranging from automation to artificial intelligence, was emphasized by Jorge Collado, Regional Product Manager at ANDRITZ. The strategy involved thorough planning and continuous improvement, positioning SQM at the forefront of the lithium industry. It was not just a technology investment, but a commitment to defining a future defined by autonomy for lithium mining and redefining its operational possibilities.

ANDRITZ's solution for SQM was a holistic and technologically advanced approach, leveraging digitalization, automation, and innovative technologies like Digital Twins to optimize lithium production. The phased transformation aimed at not only addressing current challenges but also future-proofing SQM in a changing lithium market.

Results

Optimizing Lithium Production Through Innovation

The close collaboration between ANDRITZ and SQM results in a successful optimization and digitization of lithium production. A phased technological transformation addresses critical aspects, including asset management, automation, optimization, and the integration of digital twins. The establishment of the Automation and Energy Management Department highlights the commitment to advanced technologies. The implementation of Metris, facilitates real-time monitoring, generating intelligent indicators for both reactive and predictive responses. This digitalization and monitoring, coupled with intelligent decision-making, lay the foundation for intelligent, informed, and fully digitalized maintenance.

ANDRITZ's advancements in Digital Twin technology further enhance accuracy and efficiency, particularly addressing challenges at SQM's PQLC plant. The future of lithium mining is envisioned as autonomous, efficient, and sustainable, maximizing the capabilities of AI, digital twins, and other technological advances. The partnership positions SQM as a key player in the lithium sector, contributing significantly to national and global economies. The collaboration with ANDRITZ sets new standards of excellence, shaping the future of the industry.