Overview
Leaching is a hydrometallurgical process that uses aqueous solutions to extract valuable metals from ores. Our leaching system engineering services encompass all aspects of design, from pad construction and solution management to pregnant leach solution (PLS) processing and metal recovery.
We have designed leaching systems for operations ranging from small-scale heap leach pads processing 5,000 tonnes per day to large tank leaching circuits handling 50,000 tonnes per day. Our expertise covers acid leaching, cyanide leaching, ammonia leaching, and pressure oxidation technologies.
Leaching Technologies
Heap Leaching
Low-grade ore processing
- Pad design & construction
- Liner systems (HDPE/clay)
- Solution distribution
- PLS collection systems
- Stacking methods
Tank Leaching
High-grade ore processing
- Agitated tank design
- CIL/CIP circuits
- Oxygen injection systems
- Temperature control
- Residence time optimization
Pressure Oxidation
Refractory ore treatment
- Autoclave design
- High-pressure systems
- SO2 abatement
- Heat recovery
- Safety systems
Key Services
Pad Engineering
Complete heap leach pad design including liner systems, drainage, and solution management.
Solution Chemistry
Optimization of lixiviant concentration, pH control, and reagent consumption.
Metal Recovery
SX-EW, precipitation, and ion exchange systems for metal recovery from PLS.
Environmental Design
Seepage control, water management, and closure planning for environmental compliance.
Process Optimization
Column leach testing, kinetic modeling, and recovery optimization studies.
Equipment Selection
Pumps, agitators, autoclaves, and instrumentation selection and sizing.
Technology Comparison
| Parameter | Heap Leaching | Tank Leaching | Pressure Oxidation |
|---|---|---|---|
| Ore Grade | Low (0.2-1%) | Medium-High (>1%) | Refractory ores |
| Recovery | 60-80% | 85-95% | 90-98% |
| CAPEX | Low | Medium | High |
| OPEX | Low | Medium | High |
| Leach Time | 60-180 days | 12-48 hours | 1-4 hours |