A LOCAL galvanizing company has supported the construction of a major new multi-million pound mining operation in Devon.

Crediton-based South West Galvanizers has galvanized over 200 tonnes of steelwork on behalf of Newton Abbot-based Centristic Ltd as part of Wolf Minerals new £130 million Drakelands Tungsten and Tin Mine, at Hemerdon on the outskirts of Dartmoor.

The project, which is due for completion in Summer 2015, saw the plant galvanize the steelwork that will form the steel conveyors in the mine’s distribution network, transporting materials to various areas of the process plant, as well as bulk materials handling equipment, platework, and chute installations.

When the new mine enters production in summer 2015 it will produce around 3,500 tonnes of tungsten per year, equivalent to about 3.5% of forecast global demand.

Tony Wonnacott, General Manager at South West Galvanizers, explained: “We were delighted to support our long-standing customer Centristic with the prestigious project, particularly one that is set to employ so many local people, utilise the services of local companies, and significantly benefit Devon’s economy.”

James Hepworth, Operations Director at Centristic, said: “We have a great relationship with South West Galvanizers and have worked with the facility many times before, which is why we knew we could depend on the plant for this project. Galvanizing the final product was required in the Scope of Works, however it’s a normal specification for steel conveyors in the mining process due to the aggressive underground environment.”

Wedge Group Galvanizing is the largest hot-dip galvanizing organisation in the UK with a history dating back over 150 years.

With 14 plants strategically placed across the country, the firm offers a truly national galvanizing service.

For further information please contact Wedge Group Galvanizing on 01902 630311 or visit www.wedge-galv.co.uk.