Pilot Plants & Testing

Characterizes samples and process responses under controlled conditions to guide flowsheet development. Programs may examine mineralogy, grindability, liberation, separation, leaching, dewatering, and other responses relevant to the ore.

Evaluates processing methods on small samples to compare options and establish initial design parameters. Results help screen technologies, optimize conditions, estimate recoveries, produce samples, and determine whether larger-scale testing is warranted.

Tests an integrated flowsheet at intermediate scale to validate performance and generate design data. Pilot operation reveals interactions, recycle effects, operability, product quality, and scale-up risks not captured by isolated tests.

Translate laboratory and pilot results into reliable criteria for commercial equipment and plant design. They address geometry, residence time, transport phenomena, equipment limits, control strategy, and uncertainty between test and production scales.