Strengthening Molycop’s global BMAT capability through new wear research laboratories in Chile and I

Expanding global wear research capability through aligned laboratories and data-driven testing, strengthening Molycop’s ability to deliver consistent and high-performing grinding media solutions.

Key Facts

• Molycop has expanded its global network with a second Wear Research Laboratory in Cikande, Indonesia.
• The BMAT methodology is now a core, standardised tool across multiple regions.
• Global alignment ensures consistent, high-quality data to support product development and customer outcomes.

The successful establishment of Molycop’s first Wear Research Laboratory in Chile marked an important milestone in the development of our global tribology and wear research capability. Building on that foundation, it was recently a privilege to visit our second Wear Research Laboratory in Cikande, Indonesia, as we continue to expand and strengthen this coordinated international research network.

Global Alignment and Consistency

Across both facilities, a significant body of strategic and technical work has been undertaken to ensure alignment in laboratory design, equipment deployment, testing methodologies, and experimental programs. This consistency is critical in enabling comparable, high-quality data sets that support product development, customer applications, and long-term innovation in grinding media performance.

Advancing BMAT as a Core Capability

A key enabler of this capability has been the continued deployment and industrialisation of the Ball Mill Abrasion Test (BMAT). This work, originally developed through academic research at the University of Queensland and further advanced in collaboration with UQ Materials Performance, has now evolved into a core component of Molycop’s global wear testing framework.

Strengthening Data-Driven Understanding

The expansion of BMAT into multiple regions represents an important step forward in building a more robust, data-driven understanding of grinding media performance under simulated industrial conditions. It also reinforces Molycop’s commitment to advancing metallurgical science through structured, repeatable, and scalable testing methodologies.

Operational Readiness and Continuous Improvement

During the visit to the Indonesia Wear Research Laboratory, operational readiness, ongoing test programs, and future development priorities were reviewed with the local team. This included walkthroughs of safety systems and 5S practices, as well as discussions focused on continuous improvement and the next phase of capability development.

Collaboration Across the Organisation

The establishment of the Cikande laboratory reflects strong cross-functional collaboration across the organisation, including contributions from regional operations, technical teams, procurement, and site support functions. Programs of this scale rely on disciplined execution, shared technical standards, and sustained organisational alignment.

Looking Ahead

Looking ahead, the continued expansion of Molycop’s global innovation, tribology, and wear research capability will further enhance our ability to support customers with advanced testing, deeper material insights, and improved product performance outcomes across diverse operating environments.

Molycop - Progress Together