Orway is experienced in process design across a wide range of commodities, including alumina, gold, nickel, copper, cobalt, graphite, lead, lithium, zinc, platinum group metals, iron ore, uranium, phosphates and mineral sands.
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Orway often works with clients to develop process flowsheets for projects. This involves working with the client geologists on sample selection, specification and tendering of testwork programs, analysis of results, preliminary flowsheet development, estimation of recovery and reporting. This may include input into press releases as per NI 43-101 reporting standards.
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By understanding the ore body, mining schedule and processing requirements, Orway can model and compare all suitable flowsheet options and provide recommendations for the optimal circuit configuration.
These assessments typically compare efficiency, capital and operating costs. Our modelling techniques utilise testwork from drill core or whole rock samples to size circuits, allowing options to be compared and progressing to the most suitable design.
An engineering design brief is then prepared to provide:
• A circuit description
• Process flow diagrams
• Mass balance
• Major equipment recommendations as the basis of the selected flowsheet option
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Orway often undertakes debottlenecking and upgrade scoping studies for existing projects. Recent projects include Agnew, Cowal, Gruyere, Martabe, LEFA, North Mara and Toka Tindung. This process typically involves developing a baseline mass balance and performance profile for the existing circuit. These baseline models are then used in developing debottlenecking solutions and expansion alternatives with the client.
Once the options are developed, scoping level capital and operating costs are developed for each option for input into economic modelling. These studies provide a sound basis for the client to proceed to a more detail level of study with an engineer once positive economics are indicated.