Operations
Markets
Refining
Refining of lead concentrate into lead metal is carried out by smelting. Smelting is the process of separating the metal from impurities by heating the concentrate to a high temperature to cause the metal to melt.
Magellan’s parent company, Ivernia Inc., has a close relationship with the Yunnan Metallurgical Group of China. This means that a large proportion of Magellan's lead concentrate is sent to China for smelting by Yunnan.
The double-lined, two tonne bags containing lead carbonate concentrate from the Magellan mine are transported directly to the smelter without being opened. This means the lead is not unpacked at any stage before smelting, ensuring a high standard of health and safety and minimum impact on the environment.
Uses for Lead
Lead is essential in our modern economy. It is among the most widely used and versatile materials in existence. Lead-acid batteries account for approximately 80% of global lead consumption. Virtually every car, hybrid vehicle and e-bike is started by a lead-acid battery.
Industrial lead-acid batteries are the preferred energy source for critical infrastructure systems, such as computer and telecommunications networks and emergency lighting systems that require reliable back-up power. They also provide the storage for renewable energy systems in remote areas that generate power from solar and wind sources.
Lead has the highest recycling rate of any metal – nearly 85% of lead products are recyclable.
Magellan is a member of the International Lead Association (ILA) which focuses on the safe use and sustainability of lead products.
