Recognized globally for its leadership in the supply of industrial silica sand and high purity quartz (HPQ), Sibelco is highlighting high-performance mineral solutions for molding at Metalurgia, including cutting-edge applications such as sand for 3D printing mold production processes. The company is reinforcing its commitment to sustainable development and innovation in the materials supply chain for the foundry industry.
Sibelco is one of the world’s leading suppliers of industrial minerals, with global leadership in silica sand, HPQ and recycled glass.
In Brazil, Sibelco has a modern silica sand extraction and processing plant in the city of Jaguaruna, Santa Catarina. It serves diverse markets such as glass, ceramics, construction, solar energy and, especially, base sand for foundries.
In addition to silica, the Jaguaruna plant is a multi-mineral plant that produces minerals such as olivine, feldspars (potassic and sodium), clays, nepheline, chamotte, zircon, chromite and wollastonite.
SIBELCO SILICA SAND FOR THE FOUNDRY MARKET
Sibelco’s range of foundry sands is developed to provide maximum performance in mold making. The quality of the silica sand produced at the Jaguaruna plant allows for a reduction in the use of binders in cold curing systems, contributing to greater efficiency in processes and a better finish for castings. The low presence of fines and clays in the product ensures stability, less defect generation and lower resin consumption, which are decisive factors for the competitiveness and sustainability of the company’s customers.
In addition to the silica sand used in conventional processes, Sibelco’s Sand 70 3D stands out. Sibelco is a pioneer in the supply of sand for 3D printing in the foundry industry in Brazil, with a product already approved by important printer manufacturers and widely used by companies in the sector.
Sand 70 3D is a high purity sand, subjected to multiple washing and classification cycles, which guarantees high granulometric stability and a low level of impurities. This characteristic is essential to meet the high standards required by 3D mold and core printers, allowing the production of highly complex and precise castings with an excellent surface finish.
Sustainability is a strategic pillar for Sibelco. The company supports its customers on the decarbonization journey by offering products that enable cleaner processes, with lower consumption of chemical inputs and better reuse of materials. The superior quality of silica sand makes it possible to reduce the use of binders and additives in molding processes, contributing directly to the reduction of emissions of volatile organic compounds (VOCs) and industrial waste.
In addition, the company has a strong commitment to operational safety and valuing its employees, continually investing in training and well-being. The Jaguaruna plant is an example of an efficient and responsible operation, combining technological innovation with good environmental and social practices.
ABOUT SIBELCO
Sibelco is a Belgian mining company with over 150 years of history. With operations in 32 countries and more than 5,000 employees, the company is driven by a clear purpose: to offer material solutions that promote life. Concrete solutions meet the current challenges of the metallurgical industry, such as process efficiency, casting quality and reducing environmental impact. The company offers specialized technical support, advice on choosing the material best suited to the customer’s specifications and a reliable and flexible supply chain.
With approved products, a global presence and local service, Sibelco is positioned as a strategic partner for foundries looking to increase their productivity, reduce operating costs and move towards more sustainable and technologically modern processes.
