Abstract
Gold processing plants are operating in an increasingly challenging environment with regards to energy, labour and environmental, social and governance (ESG) considerations not to mention equipment supply chains. We are also seeing average grades of new deposits continuing to decline.
Optimizing operations over a range of sometimes competing objectives requires the best available technology and trained personnel to operate and maintain plants. None of this has a simple answer. And the challenges are often site-specific. But harnessing the most advanced yet acceptable technology should always be a component of getting the most out of any mineral processing plant.
It may start in the mine but it is the plant where it all must come together to create a sustainable operation. At the core of a successful operation is information – accurate and timely – about compositions of streams (in and out) of the plant, energy usage, water consumption, monitoring and managing reagent consumptions (including activated carbon) and ultimately closure planning.
This presentation will discuss a variety of current and emerging technologies the resource plants of the future will implement to improve the overall sustainability by reducing water usage, reducing energy consumption and reducing emissions.