Developing process and layout options for a new flotation cell at a BHP nickel refinery

Flash Flotation Facility Engineering Design

When BHP Nickel West, an international resources company, wanted to achieve higher future production rates at one of their nickel refineries in Goldfields-Esperance, we were brought in to develop process and layout options. Also key to success? Improving the maintainability of the plant and minimising shutdowns during the tie-in to the existing plant.

Working from concept through the issued for tender (IFT) phase, we designed a flotation cell to increase throughput. The flash flotation facility consisted of a new building alongside the existing facility with a new cyclone cluster, flash cell, gantry crane, and ancillary equipment to maintain adequate fall angles from the facility to the existing mills. This meant extensive attention to layout.

When significant scope changes had to be accommodated, we were still able to operate within budget constraints and existing project funds. The result? Improved production at the BHP facility delivered with minimal business interruption.