A photo of a minefield

Tanzania’s Shinyanga region is recognised for its substantial gold deposits, contributing significantly to Africa’s gold production. In this unforgiving environment, accurate and reliable measurement is critical, as equipment failures can lead to considerable downtime and substantial revenue losses.

Gold processing at the Shinyanga gold mines consists of several stages, starting with underground ore extraction and moving on to processing through crushing, grinding and flotation. This process leads to the creation of high-purity gold doré bars, highly valued by gold buyers around the world.

A gold mine* in Tanzania faced significant difficulties with the operation of rake drives in its slurry tanks, critical for the effective functioning of the processing facility. The thickening process involves the separation of solids from liquids, with the rake drive pushing settled solids toward the centre of the tank for easy removal. By closely monitoring this system, the mine can ensure the safety of personnel and achieve optimal operational efficiency while also reducing water usage, aiding in its sustainability efforts.

Unfortunately, a previous malfunction of the level sensors resulted in a five-day shutdown, leading to considerable financial losses.

The challenging conditions inside thickening tanks, combined with abrasive slurry and hard-to-reach maintenance areas, pose significant hurdles for measurement equipment. In the past, VEGA has effectively addressed these challenges in multiple mining operations throughout sub-Saharan Africa by providing solutions that are both dependable and long-lasting, uniquely tailored for this demanding setting.

VEGAPULS sensors were recommended and deployed for monitoring the rake drive. Highly reliable and resistant to extreme temperatures and pressures, they are ideal for the harsh conditions found in these gold-processing facilities. VEGAPULS sensors provide fail-safe detection in tanks that experience vibration and chemical exposure, allowing for precise level control. Accurate measurement is critical to prevent overflows and to ensure the optimal concentration of solids.

Additionally, VEGAPULS sensors enable automated remote monitoring and control, featuring early-warning alarms that enhance operational safety. By continuously tracking the level of settled solids, these sensors indirectly monitor the rake drive’s position and its impact on the thickening process. This leads to improved process control, automation and optimisation – ultimately boosting productivity and efficiency.

The VEGA range of process measurement instrumentation is recognised for its straightforward installation and user-friendly configuration. The Tanzanian mine’s technicians were able to complete the installation with minimal difficulty, and VEGA’s technical support team was available to assist with troubleshooting as needed.

A representative from the gold mine noted: “For over 16 years, our partnership with VEGA has remained strong. Their sensors are accurate, reliable and easy to install. Although we handled the installation ourselves, VEGA’s technicians were always ready to assist. Their support and technology are invaluable to our operations.”

VEGA’s advanced pressure and level measurement technology, combined with its dedicated support team, has positioned it as a trusted partner in enhancing operational efficiency within the mining sector. With a proven track record and longstanding relationships with clients, VEGA consistently delivers solutions that are not only accurate but also reliable. The company’s commitment to excellence ensures mining operations can rely on its expertise to meet the industry’s most demanding challenges.

*Due to company policy, the gold mine and its personnel wish to remain anonymous.

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