Supporting responsible lithium production through reliable flow control and automation

Mar 23, 2026

Sibanye-Stillwater’s Keliber lithium project is moving closer to production. Valmet’s flow control and automation solutions have played an important role in the success of this project. A comprehensive product portfolio, availability of special materials, and flexible delivery ensured that the customer received a complete solution for demanding process conditions.

Sibanye-Stillwater's Keliber concentrator in Kaustinen in December 2025.

Valmet’s scope of delivery includes flow control solutions for various process stages at both the Keliber concentrator in Kaustinen and the Keliber lithium refinery in Kokkola, as well as the Valmet DNA automation system for both sites. These solutions support Sibanye-Stillwater’s goal of producing lithium responsibly. The delivery also includes maintenance and spare parts services to ensure process reliability and continuity.

Why Sibanye-Stillwater’s Keliber lithium project chose Valmet’s flow control solutions

The aim was to identify a partner capable of supplying valves for a wide range of applications. Valmet’s strengths include:

A broad product portfolio and complete solutions
Availability of special materials for demanding processes, such as Super Duplex steels and ceramic ball valves
Comprehensive maintenance and spare parts services

The deliveries include Neles™ series ball, segment, butterfly, and globe valves for on-off and control applications, as well as Flowrox™ valves for slurry processes. Control valves are equipped with Neles ND9000 valve controllers, enabling performance monitoring and predictive maintenance.

Valmet also provides a strong service network and comprehensive maintenance support close to the customer. A new Valmet service center opened in Kokkola in November 2024, strengthening support for the region’s industries and adding extra assurance for Sibanye-Stillwater’s Keliber lithium project. With fast access to expert support and spare parts, Valmet serves as a long-term partner ensuring process continuity.

Why Sibanye‑Stillwater chose Valmet’s automation and condition monitoring

The Valmet DNA automation system is the main automation platform at both the concentrator in Kaustinen and the Keliber lithium refinery in Kokkola. It provides full visibility into plant operations and ensures high availability for critical functions. The delivery also includes the Valmet Machine Monitoring solution, which provides real-time vibration data on critical components. This enables predictive maintenance, improves process reliability, and helps minimize unplanned downtime.

Sibanye-Stillwater's Keliber lithium refinery in Kokkola in December 2025.

Summary of the content

The Sibanye‑Stillwater Keliber lithium project in Kaustinen and Kokkola, Finland, relies on Valmet’s automation, flow control, and slurry valve solutions to support reliable and responsible lithium production. The delivery includes the Valmet DNA automation system, machine condition monitoring, and a wide range of Neles™ and Flowrox™ valves designed for demanding process and slurry applications. Special‑materials valves, predictive maintenance capabilities, and local service support from Valmet’s Kokkola service center help ensure continuous and stable operations. Valmet was selected for its comprehensive portfolio, material expertise, and strong regional presence in Finland’s battery minerals sector.

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Valmet DNA automation system chosen for Sibanye-Stillwater’s Keliber lithium project concentrator in Kaustinen, Finland

Mar 28, 2024

Valmet Oyj’s trade press release on March 28, 2024 at 9:30 a.m. EET

Valmet to deliver valve solutions to Sibanye-Stillwater’s Keliber lithium refinery in Kokkola, Finland

Sep 7, 2023

Valmet Oyj’s trade press release on September 7, 2023, at 9:30 a.m. EEST

Valmet to deliver an automation system to Sibanye-Stillwater’s Keliber lithium refinery in Kokkola, Finland

Apr 19, 2023

Valmet Oyj’s trade press release on April 19, 2023 at 11:00 a.m. EEST

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