Authors: K. Major, P. Hostford, G. Ritson, J. Wells
TESCUP, Lima, August 2002
Abstract
The price of most metals, such as copper, zinc, tin gold and silver, remain near or at historically low levels. This frequently means that for many potential projects, unless they are fortunate enough to have high head grades, the project team must strive to minimise capital costs. This is particularly relevant for smaller projects, that cannot get the advantages of economies of scale. What decisions have to be made in order to achieve this objective, and how can it be accomplished, while at the same time ensuring a final product of acceptable quality? The gold mill or base metals concentrator must achieve the design recoveries, throughput and concentrate grades, be environmentally sound, and provide a safe and pleasant workplace.
