Check out some of the presentations you'll hear at the 2024 Mill Operators Conference
This years program for the Mill Operators Conference is not to be missed.
With over 40 presentations, delegates can enjoy 11 in-depth technical sessions over three days, all presented in a single-stream format. This means you won’t have to choose between sessions—you’ll catch every presentation and benefit from each one. Each session will end with a moderated Q&A to enhance your understanding and make the most of your conference experience!
Topics include ESG, plant operations, GeoMetallurgy, comminution, flotation, process modelling and improvement, and process automation.
We have listed just a few of the standout presentations:
Isn’t it just bean counting? – Common Mistakes in Metallurgical Accounting by Diana Felipe MAusIMM, Senior Process Specialist, JKTech
Metallurgical accounting is often dismissed as routine "bean counting," but Diana will share the critical errors that can occur. Using three case studies, she highlights common pitfalls in weightometers, samplers, and mass balancing, offering insights on how to improve the accuracy of production reporting and decision-making.
Read abstract here
Practical considerations in the design of flotation process twins for setpoint decision automation at MMG Dugald River Mine by Warwick Smith MAusIMM, Principal - Decision Automation, Hatch
Learn how advanced automation at Dugald River Mine can reduce process variability and improve recovery in the Zn flotation circuit. Warwick will explain the design of process twins to optimise setpoint decisions, offering practical insights to enhance control and boost a plants performance. This talk is packed with actionable strategies to elevate your operation’s efficiency.
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Redefining the battery limits of processing plants – improving Sustainability through the deployment of sensing technologies by William Futcher, Principal Metallurgist, Newmont
Explore how innovative sensing technologies are enhancing sustainability and efficiency in processing plants. William will discuss how real-time grade estimation and ore property measurement are revolutionising ore separation and boosting processing performance. Discover how these modern advancements are transforming the industry and improving operations.
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Scats - What Are They Good For? by Tim McCredden AAusIMM, Biohydrometallurgist, IGO Ltd
Explore the evolving definition of "waste" in mining operations with Tim. This presentation will showcase how Cosmic Boy developed, implemented, and operated a low-cost purpose-built sorting plant to convert an acid generating waste stockpile into valuable mill feed exemplifying their role in sustainable mining practices.
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Whiskey, Puddings, Shampoo and Insanity – A Taxonomy of Circulating Loads by Joe Pease FAusIMM, Principal Consultant, Mineralis Consultants
Dive into this unique field guide that helps you identify and assess the value of your circulating loads. Pease will unravel the complexities of circulating loads through a compelling presentation that combines technical insight with engaging anecdotes. This is a must-read and must-hear paper for those looking to deepen their understanding of plant operations.
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The Journey of Process Improvement - Ok Tedi's Vision by Hans Liang MAusIMM, Senior Process Engineer, Mipac 1
Discover how Ok Tedi, the longest-running open-pit mine in PNG, tackled significant operational challenges. Liang will discuss the strategic initiatives they implemented, which led to over a 4% improvement in copper and gold recovery, addressing issues related to process control, digital maturity, and operational stability.
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Practical Geometallurgy – And Let There Be Light by Duncan Bennett FAusIMM, Principal Consultant, Mineralis Consultants Pty Ltd
Uncover practical geometallurgy and how understanding deposit characteristics and geological “styles” can transform your approach to mineral processing. Hear from Duncan as he explores how these insights can reduce surprises, enhance efficiency, and optimise metallurgical outcomes. Don’t be like J.R.R. Tolkien’s Gollum, searching in the dark for solutions; join us to shed light on how these learnings can elevate your operations.
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Tooling up for future innovation - turning overlooked process opportunities to immediate and long-term benefit by Prof Malcolm Powell FAusIMM, Emeritus Professor, Liner Design Services
Malcolm uncovers the hidden potential in milling operations, emphasising the need for better process understanding and advanced training. He argues that many operational improvements are overlooked, despite their potential to increase production by up to 20%. This presentation will focus on immediate strategies to enhance current operations while preparing for future innovations in the industry!
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Optimisation Of Jameson Cells to Improve Concentrate Quality at BHP Carrapateena by Jacqueline Reinhold AAusIMM, Metallurgist - Senior Plant, BHP
Jacqueline shares how Carrapateena mine optimised Jameson cells to boost copper concentrate quality. Through targeted strategies and key modifications, they achieved significant improvements in concentrate grade and reduced gangue recovery. Discover how these efforts have refined the operation and set new standards in metallurgical performance.
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