Bolivian SOBOCE selects FLSmidth for expansion of cement plant

The expansion project will enable SOBOCE to double its current capacity from 1,000 tonnes per day to 2,000 tonnes per day at their plant outside the capital city of La Paz, Bolivia.

The scope of the contract includes conversion of the existing SP system to an SLC system (separate-line calciner system). Included in the contract is also the supply of a new 5–stage SLC preheater tower, a new conditioning tower, a new tertiary air duct, addition of a new, third RFT grate cooler section to be added to the existing Coolax clinker cooler, a new FLSmidth Airtech baghouse for dedusting of the entire pyroprocessing system, an upgrade to the existing kiln drive, a new kiln feed system and various process fans. Furthermore, a comprehensive electrical, control and automation package by FLSmidth Automation is included in the contract.

This project is a result of the close collaboration between SOBOCE and FLSmidth since the late 1990s when the existing line was installed by FLSmidth.

Start-up of the project is scheduled for early 2010.

Nestled within the Andes Mountains, the Viacha plant is located at 3,850 meters above sea level making it one of the highest located cement plants in the world.