Introduction

Mineral Processing is one of the oldest sciences. Its history can be traced back to 6000 BC. Admittedly, its form at that time was rudimentary, but, to gain a perspective in Mineral Processing, it is worthwhile to spend a little time studying the initiation of mankind's association with metals. Currently there are 86 known metals. Before the 19th century only 24 of these metals had been discovered and, of these 24 metals, 12 were discovered in the 18th century. Therefore, from the discovery of the first metals - gold and copper until the end of the 17th century, some 7700 years, only 12 metals were known. Four of these metals, arsenic, antimony, zinc and bismuth, were discovered in the 13th and 14th centuries, while platinum was discovered in the 16th century. The other seven metals, known as the Metals of Antiquity, were the metals upon which civilization was based.

The course will provide an understanding of the principles of physical and chemical mineral processing. The course assumes no prior knowledge and emphasizes the science and engineering principles, and their application. Topics covered include mineralogy, size liberation, grade recovery, comminution circuits, flotation, magnetic separation, leaching, thickening and filtration. The course finishes by integrating the various unit processes, process control, maintenance and procedures for improving one's skill and knowledge in the area.

Course Benefits

The benefits of attending a course such as this are numerous. Attendees will greatly appreciate the importance of optimization of plant efficiency and in addition, they will gain an in-depth knowledge of the broader aspects of mineral processing. Any plant is a large capital resource and it needs to be efficiently managed to achieve the highest recovery and production outcomes.

Management recognises that people are the greatest asset and improved efficiency is a direct result of knowledge, skill and experience. Employees appreciate receiving training and the interest shown in them improves morale and helps foster a more productive workforce.

Participants will gain an understanding of the fundamental principles and unit processes, an appreciation of equipment and flowsheets, understand the physical and chemical principles, increased awareness of problem solving, etc.

Speaker

Damian Connelly - Director/Principal Consulting Engineer
Mineral Engineering Technical Services
Damian has over 35 years experience as a Consulting Metallurgist. He has extensive experience in the gold, copper, lead, zinc, uranium and iron ore industries. His field of expertise lies in plant operations, feasibility studies, detailed design, and commissioning. He has been involved in many projects including engineering, audit, due diligence, tenders and expert witness work. Damian has been actively involved in the development of the Roxby Uranium Processing Plant.

METS' training courses have been run both in Australia and overseas, and are highly regarded.

Who Should Attend?

The course is designed to instill key knowledge of the Resource Sector to mining executives, project managers, geologist, senior mine and processing plant operating staff, engineers and researchers. The course can also benefit training providers, suppliers to resource industry, technologist, accountants, brokers and investors. It requires no pre-requisite knowledge and is run over two days with a certificate provided at the completion of the course.

Participants will be provided with comprehensive course notes on CD covering the basic theoretical and practical aspects of Mineral Processing.

Testimonials

“very enjoyable course  well presented”

“good course, great presenter”

Course Programme

• Introduction
• Crushing
• Grinding and Classification
• Gravity Concentration
• Flotation
• Thickening
• Tailings Disposal

• Electrostatic and Magnetic Separation of Minerals
• Filtering and Drying
• Leaching
• Solvent Extraction of Metals
• Adsorption
• Stripping Reactivation and Electrowinning
• Electrowinning of Metals
• Flowsheets
• Sampling and Assay
• Process Control
• Plant Maintenance
• EQ Factor

  Mineral Processing Course Brochure 2009