The ability to treat high tonnages of diamond-bearing ore using X-ray diamond recovery technology has become a reality in the South African market, with the introduction of stock HTX plants able to treat an average of 60 t/h of feed and to recover diamonds in the size range of minus 50 mm to plus 4 mm. These stock HTX plants, available for rental or purchase, are being developed by SNC-Lavalin’s South African office in a joint venture with Impulelo Technologies, harnessing Russian developed technology.

“Effectively, this equipment eliminates the need for Dense Media Separation (DMS) plants which are associated with high operating costs,” Roger Rousseau, Manager of the modular team at SNC-Lavalin’s  South African office, says. “It’s starting to attract a lot of interest in the local mining industry for the high tonnages that can be treated and the significant diamond recoveries being achieved. On the plus 20 mm fraction, the HTX plant can treat 100 t/h and it’s even possible to recover diamonds up to 70 mm in size.

“In addition to the advantages of a high throughput, the HTX plant equipment offers low operating costs, requires fewer operators, occupies a very small footprint and is safe and environmentally friendly. The lower operating costs derive from its lower power and low water consumption and from the fact that no ferrosilicon (FeSi) is required.

“Although the introduction of this technology was initially greeted with a measure of scepticism, it is now gaining traction since several plants have been put into operation around the country and are demonstrating excellent results.”

The technology involves double X-rays and double detection, ensuring that there is less waste in the diamond concentrate. The HTX plants are offered in a containerised format, greatly simplifying the logistics associated with transporting them to site in Africa and overseas. SNC-Lavalin offers a comprehensive technical support service worldwide, including maintenance and spares and a remote log-in facility.

The containerised HTX plants, incorporating technology supplied by Impulelo Technologies, are produced by a dedicated team within the SNC-Lavalin South Africa’s Johannesburg offices.

“The mining industry is beginning to recognise the many advantages associated with containerised operational plant equipment,” Rousseau comments. “These advantages include simplified logistics and reducing the time spent on site, since the equipment can be cold commissioned before being despatched.”