Ore sorting technology, as demonstrated in TG Metals’ recent metallurgical work on lithium-bearing pegmatites, offers several significant economic benefits, especially in early-stage processing similar to AW1 Storm Copper Project DSO ambitions. As TG6 Ore Sorting results indicated, “Removal of non-pegmatite (basalt waste) in-pit prior to the process plant is an important step in controlling impurities, reduces transport and downstream processing costs. Furthermore, this has a net positive impact on overall carbon footprint. ……the application of ore sorting technology produced consistent and reproducible results.”
Here are some of the main advantages observed:
1. Increased Efficiency in Downstream Processing
- By utilizing a Steinert ore sorter with 3D laser and X-ray transmission (XRT) sensor technology, the process can effectively separate unwanted materials (e.g., basalt) from valuable ore (e.g., pegmatite). This initial sorting stage significantly reduces the mass of material that needs to proceed to the more costly downstream processes like heavy liquid separation (HLS) and dense media separation (DMS).
- The sorted results showed minimal lithia losses (3.8-5.2%) and a substantial mass rejection (14.1-24.4%), highlighting that less ore needs further refining, thus reducing overall energy and material input costs.
2. Reduced Processing and Transportation Costs
- By separating non-pegmatite waste (e.g., basalt) from pegmatite in the pit before it reaches the processing plant, ore sorting technology helps to reduce transportation costs since only the higher-grade material is transported.
- This also decreases the volume of material needing to be processed downstream, further lowering costs associated with crushing, grinding, and additional processing stages.
3. Improved Grade of Concentrate and Higher QualityOutputs
- Ore sorting produced a concentrated feed for downstream processing with higher lithium oxide (Li₂O) grades, leading to the production of a premium concentrate (e.g., up to 6.31% Li₂O spodumene concentrate). This premium grade enhances the product's market value and aligns with industry standards for high-grade lithium products.
4. Environmental Benefits
- The reduction in waste mass contributes to a smaller carbon footprint, as less energy and water are required in subsequent processing. This aligns with sustainability goals by minimizing environmental impact.
- By discarding a significant amount of waste early in the process, the operation achieves better overall efficiency and lower emissions, which are essential for environmental compliance and investor appeal.
5. Enhanced Economic Viability of the Project
- The ability to produce a high-grade concentrate through simpler, lower-capital-intensity methods (ore sorting, HLS) enhances the economic feasibility of TG Metals’ Lake Johnston Lithium Project. Simplified processing reduces capital expenditure and operational costs, making the project more attractive to investors and financially sustainable in the long run.
In summary, ore sorting provides TG Metals with a pathway to cost-effective, high-quality lithium concentrate production. This approach aligns well with industry demands for efficient, sustainable, and economically viable mineral processing techniques.
Reference:
TG Metals, ASX announcement (TG6), Burmeister achieves outstanding lithium concentrate with simple DMS processing, 16th October 2024
