Gekko launches the Wolff mine site water recycling system

Minerals processing equipment manufacturer Gekko Systems has launched the Wolff Batch Centrifugal Concentrator (Wolff), a technology designed to transform gold processing by utilising ‘dirty’ water.

This ‘first of its kind’ innovation enables mining companies to recycle water efficiently, addressing water stewardship while reducing maintenance costs and requirements, according to the Ballarat, Victoria company.

In some locations, mines face the challenge of having no or very limited access to fresh water.

The Wolff gravity-based, batch centrifugal concentration (BCC) system helps meet these challenges by enabling mines to operate using non-potable water, including both recycled and contaminated sources.

Co-Founder and lead inventor at Gekko Systems Sandy Gray said: “Water is a scarce commodity in mining and mining operations are now looking for ways to reduce fresh water consumption.

“The Wolff enables mines worldwide to improve resource availability and recovery while enhancing sustainability through the use of recycled water.”

Traditionally, maintaining batch centrifugal concentrators (BCC) involves complex and costly procedures, characterised by significant downtime and safety risks associated with crane operations.

The Wolff transforms this process with its patented bowl design, reducing maintenance time and eliminating the need for cranes during bowl changes.

Gold miner Kaiser Reef has partnered with Gekko Systems in a pilot project using the Wolff at their
processing plant in Maldon, Victoria.

The collaboration is yielding exceptional results, according to Gekko, including improved gold recovery, a decrease in the stripping requirements of carbon, as well as a reduction in reagents consumption within the CIL circuit.

Kaiser Reef is entering into new high grade ore body that responds very well to gravity recovery.

Kaiser Reef Processing Manager Dylan Morgan said: “However, we have a small throughput, so it was difficult to use traditional gravity concentrators due to the volume of water required.

“Using Gekko’s new Wolff BCC technology we have been able to install the unit using process water enabling us to improve recovery and reduce operating costs.”

Picture: Gekko Systems/Sandy Gray with Gekko Wolff Concentrator