Tuesday, 15th November 2005 (4429 views)

The efficiency of gold production could be dramatically improved by a new technical innovation able to cut down gas waste.

Brainboxes at the Commonwealth Scientific and Industrial Research Organisation (CSIRO) say they have designed a gas liquid nozzle that could significantly reduce the amount of oxygen wasted during gold production.

The research organisation also believes the invention could net it $35,000 in annual savings at its own plant.

The new nozzle improves the efficiency of sparging - the act of blowing gases into liquid and an essential part of the gold production process.

Much of the gas blown through the liquid had previously gone to waste but CSIRO's nozzle produces smaller oxygen bubbles that are more easily absorbed by the liquid.

The new technology has been quick to earn the plaudits of gold mining outfits.

Talking to The Engineer, Stawell Gold Mine's senior metallurgist Peter Wemyss said the nozzle had "greatly simplified" his plant's oxygen injection system and would pay for itself within three months.

Trials just carried out in Australia suggest the innovation could save up to 25 per cent in oxygen compared to established methods.

 

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