In today’s mining world, success isn’t just about grade. Assay results matter—but they’re just one piece of the puzzle when it comes to understanding a deposit’s real potential. That’s what Oscar van Antwerpen, CEO of Minrom Consulting, has been saying for years. From its inception in 2010, Minrom has specialised in geometallurgical modelling and integrated mine planning—combining geological data with mineral characteristics and processing needs to build a more accurate picture of the orebody. The results are clear: projects can see their value climb by 25% or more which shows that when geologists, engineers, and metallurgists work as a team, they can uncover opportunities that are not obvious initially.
It all starts in the core yard, where Minrom deploys highly-trained specialists with a strong knowledge of mineral assemblages, grade distribution, structural controls, and oxidation boundaries, to piece together a 3D geological block model. Once built, the model is updated using detailed data in order to improve operational mine planning and pit design. Minrom uses detailed geotechnical logging techniques to design pit slopes that are stable, safe and support pit slope optimisation. But the benefits go beyond safety: by understanding how different minerals behave during processing, Minrom helps clients streamline operations—simplifying plant design, reducing equipment needs, and cutting costs. These improvements are integrated into the mine plan, helping teams work faster, safer, and more profitably. The bottom line is an increase in net present value and a better returns.
What makes Minrom truly stand out isn’t just technical expertise: it is the way teams work together. Instead of treating geology, mining engineering, and metallurgy as separate disciplines, Minrom brings them together into one collaborative team where each expert contributes to a common interpretation of the deposit and its potential. This is a strategy rooted in Six Sigma principles and a commitment to high standards. From the start, before detailed planning begins, Minrom carries out a high-level conceptual study to map how minerals are distributed throughout the deposit: this will help determine the best way to mine and schedule the ore flow. From there, the team works closely with mining engineers to develop a schedule that takes into account the geology and metallurgical requirements. Collaboration is essential and ensures smarter, safer and more sustainable results
Minrom’s approach has been applied across many commodities including iron ore, copper, rare earths, fluorite, magnesite, and even olivine-enriched soils. The team also looks at the bigger picture, especially China’s rapid advance in beneficiation technologies. These innovations are game-changing and reinforce the idea that what’s seen as waste today could become tomorrow’s resource. This aligns with Minrom’s commitment to sustainability of investing in the future rather than focusing on short-term gain.
Minrom is passionate about Africa, driven by a belief in its wealth and untapped potential. More advanced and sustainable mining methods could unlock value for both investors and communities: that’s why Minrom champions local beneficiation and the responsible use of resource rent to promote equitable development and bring communities together. By building processing capacity in Africa and ensuring more of the benefits stay on the continent, countries can build stronger economies and improve the lives of their people—and turn mineral wealth into lasting benefits for all.
Whether you’re running a mine or managing an exploration project, Minrom brings the expertise you need to help you improve processes, drive revenue growth, and deliver strong returns. Their experienced geologists are ready to support you at any stage—from early exploration to full-scale operations. Their trusted methods will help your operation work smarter, smoother, and more sustainably, unlocking greater value. Reach out, collaborate, and discover how much more your project can achieve.
Written by: Oscar van Antwerpen MINROM
