PROCESS CONTROL IN METALLURGICAL PLANTS – FROM AN XSTRATA PERSPECTIVE*

Some history and modern practice of Process Control in metallurgical operations is reviewed. Clearly the early deliverables from the pioneer days in the 1950's through to the 1970's and early 1980's were under-appreciated. The discipline has since grown into a more visible, sophisticated and accepted practice as a result of the assembly of appropriately-recruited and trained individuals and teams, whom have successfully negotiated deliverable projects that impact all metallurgical performance beyond early milling processes. The skill set in these individuals and teams essentially includes organizational behaviour in addition to their specialist technical attributes. A strong network to internal and external specialists and experts is essential. Furthermore, instrumentation and control technology has improved immensely. The challenge in the current modern practice is to win support of senior management in operations for the project cost, schedule and deliverables of Process Control. Once gained, this acceptance then amounts to the logistics of project scope and delivery - a track record well-demonstrated by the Xstrata Process Control Group.