Core Resources has successfully commissioned a gold processing plant in Southeast Asia, designed for the retreatment of gold tailings. The project covered the full development cycle, from conceptual design to metallurgical testwork, process design, equipment costing, sourcing, engineering, and on-site commissioning.
Project Overview
The plant operates on a reclaim-scrub-float-carbon-in-leach (CIL) flowsheet to optimise gold recovery from tailings. Over a period of 20 months, Core Resources transitioned the project from initial concept to full operation, demonstrating expertise in fast-track project execution.
Commissioning Process
Rod Ventura, Core’s Manager for Technology and Support, led the on-site commissioning over an 8.5-week period. His leadership ensured the successful integration of flotation, CIL gold leach, gold elution and electrowinning, smelting, and in-house refining circuits. The first raw gold bullion was poured on 27 February, marking a significant milestone for the project.
Technical Challenges and Solutions
During commissioning, Core Resources identified and addressed several technical challenges to improve plant performance, including:
- Water balance management to optimise processing efficiency
- Flotation launder installation to enhance mineral recovery
- Reagent coordination to maintain consistent quality and supply
- Mechanical troubleshooting of agitators and gearboxes to ensure reliable operation
- Oil ingress control to prevent contamination in flotation and gold circuits
- CIL circuit optimisation by adjusting free cyanide levels, pH, and specific gravity
- Carbon sourcing and testing to improve gold adsorption rates
Project Outcome
The successful commissioning and first gold pour highlighted the effectiveness of Core Resources’ process design and technical expertise. The project not only showcases Core’s ability to deliver comprehensive metallurgical solutions but also reinforces its commitment to supporting clients in achieving operational efficiency.
