Steel Ball Market Rises Above Challenges

Q: How has the steel ball market changed, considering the supply issues caused by the ongoing dispute among the United States, China, and Mexico?
A: We are experiencing strong growth, particularly domestically. We have been in Mexico for over 16 years and continue to expand into Central America, the Caribbean, South America, the European Union, and Asia. We also plan to penetrate the African and North American markets this year. Despite any challenges we may face nationally, we observe robust growth in the sector.

Tariffs are ultimately a challenge that will affect the entire industry. Producers face a major hurdle, as governments' decision to deal with one segment may affect others due to operating costs. We can only strengthen ourselves to minimize the adverse effects.

Q: What differentiates the company’s offer from the rest of the steel ball industry? How does the company decide which steel ball suits mining companies best?
A: We transitioned from being steel ball suppliers to optimize the entire milling circuit. We have a team of seven highly skilled meteorologist-engineers, led by one of the brightest minds in the field. We strive to provide balls with the required chemical composition, hardness, and other parameters because we understand that our clients' results ultimately define our success. We have thus invested to differentiate our business approach. It is not just what we do, but how we do it that attracts our clients.

Q: What is the added value of being a company with a global presence?
A: As grinding experts, we created a global platform that enables people involved in grinding circuit optimization to seek advice and solutions in a diverse community. With over 400 participants worldwide, this exchange of experience contributes to circuit optimization. Our Curiosity platform also provides entertainment for remote miners. We also offer virtual and face-to-face training sessions to continuously educate our customers. 

Our main objective is to optimize milling circuits, as each operation has its unique recipe. By providing these tools, we empower our customers to make informed decisions quickly. We also generate finance-related newsletters, recognizing that in times of constant change, well-informed entities can anticipate market changes and make strategic decisions accordingly.

Q: What are your goals for this year and what changes do you expect from the coming government transition?
A: We remain committed to the development of knowledge and collaboration with our clients. We aim to expand into the North American and African markets to play a pivotal role in their national development. One of our major challenges is destigmatizing the mining industry, which is increasingly technological and environmentally sustainable. We hope the next government will be more receptive to our efforts, enabling us to convey our true impact and intentions effectively.

Proesmma, part of Grupo Acermex11, manufactures and commercializes cast and forged steel balls and steel components. It provides grinding solutions in addition to simulation products.