INCREASING Gold TREATMENT BY OPTIMIZATION.

This type of scaling is done by operators using theirs operative information and some m etallurgical test for some reference. Usually, this type of improving is about 10 to 20% of the initial operation. In order to do any change can be modified one variable of the operation such as the feed size to the ball mill, other D50, circulating load, etc. Any equipment can be changed but considering that the rest ones can accept more flow. It can be possible change some equipments for another ones with major capacity and efficiency. Thus, can be optimized the capacity of treatment and the recovery.

4. EXPANDING A PLANT.

This scaling is usually simple because there is operative information of the actual plant working. This type can be considered like passing from pilot scale to industrial scale.

The main aspects to consider are economics. Generally will be maintained the same flowsheet and will change small equipments by bigger ones with better efficiency. Also the plant can grow placing parallel circuits. It is important know the cost of grow, and also the new operative cost and the possible restrictions to the actual operation.

Many times, it is wished expanding the plant but using the same levels of treatment, this can be a slower growing but the company can maintain its cash flow. The latter aspect is important when the investment will be done only by the company. Some equipments are installed in the actual operation and will work after the maintenance program in order to don’t change the treatment program.

In this type of growing is very important the economic evaluation of the project and obviously the right selection of new equipment with better capacity and efficiency.