Antofagasta Minerals has requested Expande to scout for suppliers in the local and international ecosystem that can provide solutions for the challenge “Bolt leak detection and/or elimination in SAG mill.

DESCRIPTION OF CHALLENGE:

At Minera Los Pelambres, its concentrator plant has a SAG-Ball grinding circuit, which continuously presents problems of pulp leaks in its SAG mills. This is probably generated by two factors; liner wear and/or microfractures in the fastening system. Based on experience, these leaks occur in a greater proportion in areas near the pulp discharge grids than in areas near the mill feed.

SCOPE OF THE CHALLENGE:

• Technological solutions are required to predict slurry leakage through the liner (bolt) fastening system.
• And additionally a fastening system solution that does not leak pulp to the outside of the mill.

BACKGROUND – PRIOR SOLUTION ATTEMPTS:

Different bolts have been tested, without satisfactory results.

EXPECTED BENEFITS:

• Reduction/elimination of slurry leakage from liner fastening system.
• Reduction of safety incidents to people, materials and environment.

KEY PERFOMANCE INDICATORS:

• # event/time
• # hours/event