Service line 06
Mineral processing and metallurgical testwork
Our metallurgists help mines improve grade and recovery from complex, low-grade ores.
Low grade and recovery from these ores are often caused by not fully investigating the mineralogy, the surface chemistry of the particles or the choice of reagents. We test these properties first and base our process recommendations on the results.
What we do
Mineralogical characterisation
Thin sections under the petrological microscope, EPMA, SEM and XRD, to show what the ore is made of and how the minerals are associated.
Sizing and particle size distribution
Wet sieve analysis and particle size distribution of feed, products and tailings.
Laboratory testwork
Comminution, flotation, magnetic and gravity separation, flocculation, hydrometallurgy, sizing and classification, thickening and filtration.
Surface chemistry
Adsorption and electrokinetic (zeta potential) studies, with and without surfactants, to select and dose reagents.
Plant optimisation
Monitoring and adjusting each stage of the plant, including waste treatment, as the feed changes over the life of the mine, using simulation and laboratory tests.
Flowsheet design
Testwork programmes for new and existing plants, and flowsheet design for beneficiation and extraction.
Water and residue testwork
Water remediation, environmental and analytical studies on process water and residues.
What you receive
- Mineralogy reports with mineral association and liberation findings
- Testwork results and interpretation
- Reagent selection and dosing recommendations
- Optimisation plans for existing circuits
- Flowsheets and design criteria for new plants