Debottlenecking a Polymetallic Concentrator for Brownfield Upgrade

The mining operation needed an independent, testwork-based feasibility study to determine how the existing crushing, milling, flotation, dewatering, tailings, reagent and utility sections could be debottlenecked or upgraded, while limiting production losses during implementation.

VBKOM assessed the current plan and infrastructure to identify the constraints to increased throughput. The study was conducted in three phases: a site-based plant assessment and option generation, detailed development of the selected options, and preparation of tender packs and the final report. All throughput analysis was based on a 100% new area ore feed, a signed-off process design criteria and mass balance, and completion of the classification-screen and zinc rougher upgrades already in progress.

The workstream was structured to maintain continuity between the available information, technical assessment, project activities and final outputs. This ensured that each component of the assignment contributed directly to the agreed objectives and required outcomes. Findings were consolidated into clear supporting documentation, giving the client a structured technical basis from which to evaluate the results, consider recommendations and determine the appropriate next steps.