Rocktec partnered with SteelServ Ltd to design, manufacture, and install a custom metal recovery plant at New Zealand Steel’s Glenbrook Mill. The system was engineered to process smelter slag—turning ironmaking by-product into valuable materials suitable for infrastructure and environmental reuse.
Project Overview: Smelter Slag Recovery at Glenbrook
- Client: SteelServ Ltd
- Location: Glenbrook, New Zealand
- Industry: Ironmaking / Metal Recovery
- Scope: Full metal recovery plant design, build, and installation
The Challenge: Recovering Value from Ironmaking Waste
At Glenbrook Mill, smelter slag is a by-product of New Zealand Steel’s ironmaking process. SteelServ required a metal recovery plant that could efficiently process this slag to separate reusable materials from debris. In addition, the system needed to be robust, environmentally compliant, and able to produce screened aggregates for multiple applications such as roading, water filtration, and drainage.
Rocktec’s Solution: A Purpose-Built Slag Processing System
To meet these requirements, Rocktec delivered a complete slag processing system designed for efficiency, flexibility, and long-term durability. The plant included:
- A Sandvik MGF Vibrating Feeder to ensure even material flow
- F350B and VIP Feeders for controlled feeding into multiple stages
- Rocktec 6’ x 3’ Medium Duty Single Deck Screen for initial separation
- Rocktec 8’ x 4’ Heavy Duty Single Deck Screen for intermediate sizing
- Rocktec 16’ x 6’ Extra Heavy Duty Double Deck Screen for high-volume screening
- Integrated conveyor systems to transport material between processes
- Dust encapsulation to improve air quality and reduce site emissions
Together, these components formed a cohesive system that allowed SteelServ to maximise recovery while minimising environmental impact. Furthermore, the configuration allowed flexibility to adjust output sizes based on demand.
Implementation Process: From Engineering to Installation
- Design: Rocktec collaborated with SteelServ to define performance specifications, flow rates, and environmental controls.
- Fabrication: The team manufactured all equipment in-house using abrasion-resistant materials and tested every unit prior to delivery.
- Installation: Technicians completed the on-site assembly and integrated the system into existing infrastructure with minimal disruption.
Results and Benefits
- Improved Resource Recovery: The plant efficiently separates usable metal and aggregates from slag waste.
- Environmental Compliance: Dust control and responsible handling support Glenbrook’s sustainability goals.
- High Output: The heavy-duty screen and feeder system provides reliable throughput across all material types.
- Operational Flexibility: The plant can adjust to produce various aggregate sizes for diverse applications.
Conclusion: A Smarter Way to Process Slag
Rocktec’s metal recovery plant at Glenbrook showcases what’s possible when smart engineering meets sustainable outcomes. By repurposing slag from ironmaking into usable materials, SteelServ continues to lead in circular material handling across New Zealand.
Want to Learn More?
To explore slag recovery systems and modern screening solutions, visit the Australian Bulk Handling Review.
If you’re planning a metal recovery plant or need a complete slag processing system, contact Rocktec today to start your project.