Ensuring the credibility of thickening technology

Authors: Jewell, RJ Download Paper

DOI https://doi.org/10.36487/ACG_rep/1063_2_Jewell

Cite As:
Jewell, RJ 2010, 'Ensuring the credibility of thickening technology', in R Jewell & AB Fourie (eds), Paste 2010: Proceedings of the Thirteenth International Seminar on Paste and Thickened Tailings, Australian Centre for Geomechanics, Perth, pp. 23-31, https://doi.org/10.36487/ACG_rep/1063_2_Jewell



Abstract:
Advances in thickening technology over recent years have made possible the production of tailings at underflow densities that were previously unattainable. The potential in terms of increased water recovery within the plant and TSF storage efficiency in above ground storages is a major factor in the increasing interest by mine operators in adopting the technology in new operations as well as retrofitting existing operations. There are a number of practical issues related to being able to consistently achieve design underflow densities from the new generation of thickeners in particular. There is also evidence that in a number of cases the predictions of beach slopes for high yield stress tailings may be overly optimistic when compared with field observations. The extra costs involved in thickening tailings must be balanced against the benefits to be gained from the technology and it is necessary to ensure that the designed product can be produced consistently. The downside of not meeting design targets could significantly affect the credibility of the technology and delay ongoing implementation.

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