Key Facts:
- Australian goldfields implements upgraded Aquamonix flow monitoring solution, featuring Emflux 2060 electromagnetic flowmeters designed for challenging mining conditions
- Simplified procurement process developed, allowing site personnel to select correct meters based on size and application only
- Standard 30-metre cable length implemented to eliminate guesswork and potential installation issues
- Solution combines proprietary technology with full-bore construction for high accuracy in remote environments
- Success leads to planned global rollout across other mining sites
Australian goldfields, is integrating an upgraded flow monitoring solution from Aquamonix across multiple sites.
The gold mining operation required a flow monitoring solution that would not only meet the demanding operating conditions of large-scale gold processing but also provide consistency and reliability across multiple sites.
Flow monitoring is critical to gold extraction and gold processing, where water and slurry fluid transport protocol which will operate under tough conditions. Inaccuracies or failures can cause production delays, increase maintenance costs, and create operational optimisation and safety risks.
After carefully reviewing the requirements, Aquamonix supplied its Emflux 2060 series electromagnetic flowmeters, engineered with materials suitable for challenging slurry and water applications.
The Emflux range of Australian-made flowmeters combines proprietary technology with full-bore construction with no moving parts, delivering high accuracy and minimal pressure loss, even in dusty, desolate, remote environments.
Streamlined purchasing process
To further support operational efficiency, Aquamonix worked closely with the site electrical and implementation planning team as well as the cataloguing department to develop a specification approved framework, enabling site personnel to identify the correct meter by knowing just two key factors – size and application.
"We wanted to make things as simple and efficient as possible for the customer," said Trent Nimmo, Project and Technical Sales – Mining and Infrastructure, Aquamonix.
"We worked closely with key onsite personnel to gather relevant data, including 12 years of material selection and suitability in the mining and oil and gas sectors. We collated data on salinity, temperature, pressure, and total suspended solids (TSS)," he added.
"The result was that if any onsite staff provided the size and application, we could discern right away whether we are using polyurethane lining with Hastelloy C276 electrodes or 6mm rubber lining with stainless steel 316/316L electrodes, for example."
"We collaborated in unison to achieve a common goal, to understand the unique site challenges, and develop a practical, fit-for-purpose solution. By simplifying the procurement process, we enabled the gold miner to achieve greater reliability and operational efficiency, in a way that's easily scalable."
Removing guesswork
Typically, the types of installations being used by this gold miner require three component considerations – the flow meter, Transmitter, and the length of cable between the install location and transmitter. By collating and running statistical analysis of indexed data already on hand, Aquamonix identified an opportunity to further streamline this process.
"Rather than asking them for the cable length they required each time, we made the decision to always supply the maximum length possible, which is 30m," explains Trent, who has more than 15 years of in-field experience.
"This was done for two main reasons. Firstly, if the length is not sufficient, adding cable to existing cable is a lengthy process that can create a vulnerable point if not done correctly. Secondly, if the full 30m is not required, it can simply be cut onsite to the desired length. It removed all doubt and potential water ingress failure points."
Future endeavours
The collaboration has now set a new standard across the gold miner's global assets, reinforcing Aquamonix's role as a trusted partner in flow monitoring solutions for the red dirt and brownfields sectors.
"They were so impressed by the solution, they are currently working on rolling out the same methodology on their other sites globally," said Nimmo.
Aquamonix will be exhibiting at the WA Mining Conference and Exhibition in Perth October 8-9, Stand H116.
About us:
About Aquamonix
Aquamonix was founded in November 2015 following the acquisition of three businesses from Pentair. United by a vision for a more sustainable planet and drive to re-invigorate these businesses, Aquamonix was born. Aquamonix has now grown its capabilities to cover a range of water and environmental monitoring products and services as part of the larger Envirada Group. Brought together over a genuine passion for the water industry, the business focuses on innovation and meeting our customers' needs. Aquamonix has an installed base with more than 40,000 operating flowmeters, 1,000 operating depth or quality sensors and 5,000 irrigation controllers or other devices. Our team are experts in the field and have over 200 years of combined experience.
