In its just released Q2 2025 results, First Quantum Minerals (FQM) confirmed that its Sentinel copper operations in Zambia, part of the FQM Trident complex, have begun installation of the innovative low-energy consumption rail running conveyor (RRC) from FLSmidth to replace traditional conveyor belts with idlers. The FLS RRC system, expected to be completed in late 2025, will draw potentially 50-70% less power than traditional conveying.
Earlier this year, Martin Lurie, FLS Global Product Line Manager for Rail-Running Conveyors (RRC) stated: “Designed to dramatically reduce energy consumption, improve safety and cut capital and operating expenditure, Rail-Running Conveyors are a gamechanger for mines which must rely on extended conveying distances to move material.” says Martin Lurie, FLS Global Product Line Manager for Rail-Running Conveyors (RRC).
FLS says any mine that carries substantial tonnages over more than 500 to 1,000 m can achieve far higher efficiencies using this technology. The Sentinel installation as is designed to carry 5,000 t/h of copper ore over a 3.25 km run.
Between the conveyor head and tail on the RRC, the belt rests on wheeled carts, which are carried along by their interface with the belt. This lowers friction and thus belt tension, allowing for lighter weight belts and smaller drives. This is notable globally as it will be the first mining-scale RRC reference.
Sentinel reported copper production of 43,108 t in the quarter, 3,253 t lower than the previous quarter due to the mining of lower grades from Stage 3. Total throughput improved quarter-over-quarter despite planned stoppages to address Train 2 Ball Mill flange bolt fatigue issues.
FQM Trident’s nearby Enterprise nickel mine produced 4,018 t of nickel in Q2 2025, a 14% decrease over the previous quarter due to lower throughput and grades. Grades continued to be impacted by a change in the mining sequence and deployment of permanent ramps to widen the footprint. 2025 production guidance remains unchanged at 15,000 to 25,000 contained tonnes of nickel. The focus for 2025 continues to be on maximising ore supply and comminution efficiency to increase throughput and reduce operating cost per unit. In response to the challenging economic conditions for the nickel market, the mining strategy for the year has been revised to minimise waste stripping while maintaining nickel production within guidance.
