Abstract

The critical minerals sectors has become essential to achieving the worlds' climate goal, and operators are facing new pressures to regulate emissions intensity below a threshold where their production has a net positive environmental impact. This metric is becoming increasingly important for an operator and their stakeholders including investors, communities, NGOs, customers, and regulators; However, the challenge is that there are a large number of new entrants into the critical minerals sector without a significant operating history. Through first-hand experience, we will demonstrate how a well-executed ramp-up period will not only minimize emissions intensity during ramp-up, but it will also ensure organizations are set up for long-term success as organizational norms are established.      

This engaging presentation will review the factors of emissions intensity with a focus on production ramp-up as well as the mix of fixed vs. variable electrical load. Production ramp-up will be explored in more detail by reviewing the components of Overall Equipment Effectiveness (OEE) and how these are influenced by both engineering design and operational risks. The strategic application of Operational Readiness (OR) Principles are applied to demonstrate how to mitigate operational risks, thereby minimizing emissions intensity, and ensuring operators’ success in the eyes of all stakeholders. 

It is essential to advocate for the strategic application of Operational Readiness during the Pre-Feasibility and Feasibility Study phases of a project as it directly impacts ramp-up for any project. Knowing how to apply OR during the early phases provides benefit and clarity when the project scope is finalized and operators engage in constructive conflict to make optimal business decisions for the future. This presentation will also provide attendees a better understanding of how the value of strategic OR compaired to the cost, is easily justified when compared to the impact of not achieving a successful ramp-up curve. 

Presenter Bio: Andrew Sinclair has over 20 years of experience in the mineral processing sector, including the commissioning and ramp-up of multiple billion-dollar facilities. After 13 years with Vale, he started trajectorE which is a specialty engineering firm focused on the commissioning and operational readiness of mineral processing facilities, with clients coast to coast in Canada and internationally. Andrew is a professional engineer, project management professional, holds a master's in business administration, and has presented on concepts around engineering, project management, risk prevention, and mining.