Industries — Mining
Copper
Copper ore is processed by one of two routes depending on mineralogy. Sulphide ore is ground and floated into a concentrate for smelting. Oxide ore is leached with sulphuric acid, purified through solvent extraction, and electrowon to cathode. Olfa supplies across both routes.
Two Routes, One Sourcing Partner
The assay decides the route. Sulphide mineralisation goes to flotation — a reagent-intensive concentration step that produces a smelter-grade concentrate. Oxide mineralisation goes to heap or tank leaching with sulphuric acid, with the pregnant solution purified through solvent extraction and deposited as cathode copper in the electrowinning cellhouse.
The split-flow diagram below shows both routes on one screen. The supply lists that follow break out what Olfa provides into each.
Sulphide Route — Flotation
Grinding
Forged steel and high-chrome cast grinding media, mill liners, wear parts.
Flotation
Collectors (SIBX, PAX and equivalents), frothers (MIBC, polyglycols), copper sulphate pentahydrate as sphalerite activator, lime for pH control.
Smelting
Silica, limestone and iron ore fluxes, refractory materials, consumable electrodes.
Oxide Route — SX-EW
Heap leach
Sulphuric acid in bulk — ISO tank, flexitank or full vessel parcels. Sulphur (prill, slate or lump) for captive acid plants.
Solvent extraction
Organic extractant (LIX, Acorga or equivalent), kerosene-based diluent, antisolvent additives.
Electrowinning
Lead-calcium anodes, stainless steel cathode blanks, cobalt sulphate, guar smoothing agents, acid mist suppressants.
A Partnership at Any Scale
Whether you're commissioning a new operation or strengthening an existing supply chain, Olfa works as an integral partner from first enquiry through long-term supply. We add value through superior sourcing, reliable logistics and full compliance documentation — scaled to your stage, your volumes, and your operational priorities.