Mining Technologies

Tailing Dam Water Reuse for SIMINECIS WaterA treatment solution for a valuable resource

Most residues (tailings) produced during beneficiation processes worldwide are dumped into large impoundment ponds. Due to the small size of the milled particles and the chemicals added for milling, toxic metals in the tailings disperse more readily than the original ore. Water contaminated by untreated tailings can therefore cause serious environmental problems. To prevent damage to the environment leading to costly fines and mitigation penalties for mining companies, Siemens Water Technologies provides a highly efficient membrane technology that removes up to 99 % of toxic heavy metals.

The challengeTailing water contains a high concentration of various toxic metals and chemicals, such as sulfates (SO4

2–). Discharge standards have become much stricter in recent years. Innovative technologies are therefore in great demand and must meet the expectations of citizens, local government, and national regulators alike. Reuse of effluents from tailing dams is a challenge for all environmental engineers.

Our solutionMembrane technology is the core process that ensures high-quality treatment of the effluent. Pretreatment can be performed using low-cost flotation technology (to increase the lifespan of equipment) and the TRIDENT® multibarrier filtration technique. Compared with conventional methods, our process produces less sludge and requires fewer chemicals. Its modular standard design also takes up much less space.

Based on the wide-ranging Siemens portfolio, we can deliver not only a single technology but a complete life-cycle solution. Together with our automation and control systems, we can provide all the equipment you need, including any services.

Good reasons for SIMINECIS Water Efficient decontamination. Innovative membrane technology can remove 99 % of toxic heavy metals.

Reduced costs. Life-cycle operating costs are lower because less sludge is produced and chemical use is minimized.

More flexibility. Customized design and modular construction can meet all your requirements, and modular scale-up from pilot production is easy.

High performance. Siemens integrated automation and control systems make your operations totally automatic.

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Energy recovery technology in the membrane process

Thanks to Siemens technology, most of the pressure on the concentrate side can be reused as an energy resource for the feedwater. Based on our long-standing R&D program and years of worldwide experience, Siemens can supply highly efficient and reliable equipment that reduces the energy consumption of your membrane plant by about 40 % and minimizes operating costs.

Flexible design

We can custom-design, engineer, and construct systems with capacities ranging from a few hundred to several thousands of cubic meters per day.

Our systems meet all the requirements established for tailing water treatment facilities. Ask our professionals about the best system for your specific needs.

Our services ensure your success

It is crucial to maintain top performance throughout the entire life cycle of your plant. We make certain that you achieve that goal with our professional services, which range from financing and conception to project planning, integration, and commissioning, as well as remote diagnosis and ongoing maintenance to ensure high reliability. And by modernizing your plant, we can bring it up to current standards in terms of both efficiency and environmental impact.

SIMINE is a trademark of Siemens AG. CIS = Completely Integrated Solutions

The information provided in this brochure contains merely general descriptions or characteristics of performance which in case of actual use do not always apply as described or which may change as a result of further development of the products. An obligation to provide the respective characteristics shall only exist if expressly agreed in the terms of contract.

© Siemens AG 2007 All rights reserved Order No.: E10001-M5-A11-V1-7600 Printed in Germany Dispo No.: 21662 K No.: 28400GB C-MTMI5207M14 PA 08071.5Subject to change without prior notice

Siemens AGIndustrial Solutions and ServicesMining TechnologiesSchuhstr. 6091052 Erlangen, GermanyE-mail: mining@siemens.com