Olympic Dam Copper Mine – hydromet improvement project

Simple improvements in piping design have optimised throughput at BHP’s Olympic Dam copper mine.

We worked with Prudentia Process Consulting to refine the piping system on a new hydromet bypass line.

Here’s how we helped them improved the design and throughput:

1. Improve slurry flow by removing short radius elbows
2. Enhance efficiency in the line by changing outlet placement
3. Minimise the total volume of spools by optimising spool lengths

The slurry considerations were also particularly abrasive and corrosive which made specifying the right piping even more critical.

That’s why they selected Abrasiguard polyurethane-lined steel. It was a safe choice for their slurry application because of its strong track record in similar conditions.

Our Brisbane factory custom-manufactured more than 230 Abrasiguard spools and delivered them to site ready for installation.

It was great to work with the Prudentia team and BHP on this project. We’re proud to help them optimise their plant for better yield and throughput.