CDMS conducted a comprehensive review of the testwork for the Gimlet South Project, aiming to process refractory ore in Western Australia. The project, led by Norton Gold Fields Limited (NGF) and Zijin Mining Group Co. Limited, aimed to enhance the mine’s processing capabilities. The primary objective was to deliver a robust engineering design, including key processing units, compliance with operational standards, and optimization of efficiency. Challenges included the refractory nature of the orebody, logistical and operational challenges, and meeting the required throughput rate of 3,000,000 tonnes per annum while maintaining operational efficiency.
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Project Brief
Outcome
The review conducted by CDMS on the testwork for the Gimlet South Project had identified crucial gaps and provided valuable insights to guide the Detailed Design phase. This comprehensive analysis ensured that there was sufficient data to proceed with confidence, laying a solid foundation for the engineering design and subsequent project implementation.
Background
The Gimlet South Project, located within the Paddington Gold Mine in Western Australia, aimed to process refractory ore through modifications to the existing Paddington Mill. Norton Gold Fields Limited (NGF), backed by its parent company Zijin Mining Group Co. Limited, had led this endeavor to enhance the mine’s processing capabilities. As one of Australia’s largest domestic gold producers, NGF was well-positioned to expand its operations with the support of Zijin Mining Group.
Project Objectives
The primary objective of CDMS’s involvement in the Gimlet South Project had been to deliver a robust engineering design that enabled NGF to effectively process refractory ore from the South Gimlet mine. This included designing and implementing key processing units such as the flotation circuit, ultra-fine grinding mill, and carbon-in-leach (CIL) circuit. Additionally, our aim had been to ensure compliance with NGF’s operational standards and environmental regulations while optimizing operational efficiency and cost-effectiveness.
Challenges
One of the primary challenges identified was the refractory nature of the Gimlet South orebody, which required specialized processing techniques not available at the Paddington Mill at the time. Additionally, ensuring seamless integration of the proposed flotation plant and other processing units into the existing infrastructure had posed logistical and operational challenges. More over, meeting the required throughput rate of 3,000,000 tonnes per annum while maintaining operational efficiency had presented another significant challenge.
Our Approach
CDMS had approached the project with a meticulous Gap Analysis to evaluate the adequacy of the testwork undertaken for the Gimlet South orebody. This involved a detailed assessment of the existing processing infrastructure at the Paddington Mill and the proposed modifications necessary to accommodate the refractory ore. By collaborating closely with NGF and leveraging our multi disciplinary expertise, we had formulated a comprehensive engineering design plan tailored to the specific requirements of the project.
