Question: What do you get when you combine the Parker Centre's expertise in hydrometallurgy research with the industry experience of a leading Australian engineering company?

Answer: Even better service for the minerals industry.

The Parker Centre has signed a non-exclusive alliance agreement with Hatch Associates Ltd. The alliance offers clients "two heads instead of one" to meet their R&D needs in hydrometallurgy.

The Centre will collaborate with Hatch by sharing information and jointly developing proposals for selected research and development projects. The initial focus is on the alumina industry, a core business for Hatch.

Parker Centre CEO Mark Woffenden (left) and Dr Ken Thomas (Hatch Managing
Director, WA at the time) signing the Parker Centre-Hatch alliance agreement.

Mr Philip Bangerter, Hatch's Australasia Director - Technologies, says Hatch's competitive advantage has always been reliant on its innovative culture, especially in process engineering. "We see the alliance with the Parker Centre as a key contributor to that competitive advantage," he says. "Together, we will cooperate to the benefit of our common clients and each other by innovative research and engineering coupled into a unique business model."

Each party brings its particular strengths to the relationship. The Centre is contributing its fundamental process knowledge and research capabilities. Hatch has extensive expertise in engineering and process design and project management for the minerals industry.

"Hatch's expertise in plant design, operability and cost structures will add value to the Parker Centre's research," says Mr Mark Woffenden, the Parker Centre's CEO. "The combination of research outcomes and engineering experience will provide clients with practical solutions backed up with appreciation of the financial benefits they offer."

Education will also be a part of the relationship. Hatch will encourage its staff to undertake postgraduate studies with the Centre or act as associate supervisors for Parker Centre PhD students.