PROCESSING
Processing involves existing practices and equipment. A basic description of the typical processes are provided as an example:
SCREENING AND ATTRITION
The silica slurry is pumped to the separator density tanks and further screened and purified prior to processing.
CLASSIFICATION AND WASHING
The slurry, now in a ready form, is put through a classifier and washing process to remove fines and silt, which increases the silica content and reduces contaminants such as iron, titanium and aluminium.
GRAVITY SEPARATION
The slurry then undergoes a separation process using a three-stage spiral separation circuit which will further remove metals.
MAGNETIC SEPARATION
The slurry is passed through a magnetised matrix separator and the magnetic materials are filtered. This results in a further increase in silica content, and reduction in iron, titanium and aluminium.
FINAL SCREENING
AND DE-WATERED
The processed slurry, now in a pure white form, is pumped through a final screening process before it is de-watered using a hydrocyclone, and stockpiled to reduce moisture content.
LOADED FOR TRANSPORT
The final product is then loaded onto 60 tonne double road trains for transport to the lay-down storage facility, and thereafter onto the ship.
Mining and Processing Operations
Mining and processing operations are intended to operate 24 hours per day and 365 days per year. Where possible personnel would be rostered using local employees and on-site camp facilities may not be required.