ABSTRACT
This chapter focuses on nonferrous mineral concentrate producers in the Western states and examines their adjustments to smelter reduction. Mineral marketing decisions for US companies have become increasingly international in scope as domestic markets dwindle. The chapter examines an assessment of recent production, marketing, and transportation of mineral concentrates from all active mills in the Western states. Most concentrates are shipped by rail or by a combination of truck and rail, although an increasing number of the higher-value concentrates are moving long distances by truck. The concern for quality of service reflects the need for trust and good working relations between smelter and concentrate producers. Some respondents mentioned a need to umpire the weigh-in of their concentrates at the smelter, in some cases to protect their interests. The smelting industry in the United States is sick resulting from a combination of smelting closures, increasing prices, and less competitive markets.
