Abstract
Process modelling is used as a simulation tool to for the purposes of design and optimisation. This paper discusses the application of modelling in hydrometallurgical project development and the value it creates by allowing for rapid high level flowsheet option evaluation, testwork planning and analysis, provision of data for equipment design and for the optimisation of operating plants. The paper explains the development process for a pressure oxidation model from input data such as throughput, feed composition, and testwork results. The resulting model is used to explore and demonstrate the impact of various processing alternatives such as feed sulphide sulphur content, feed density, autoclave operating temperature, and cooling method. Examples of the application of process modeling are provided.