ARBS: Energy Efficient Comminution
| Reference number | |
| Coordinator | Comminution Reimagined Sweden AB |
| Funding from Vinnova | SEK 15 000 000 |
| Project duration | March 2022 - October 2024 |
| Status | Completed |
| Venture | The strategic innovation programme for Swedish mining and metal producing industry - SIP Swedish Mining Innovation |
| Call | Resource Efficiency and Sustainable Production in the mining and metal-producing industry |
Important results from the project
The project goals were to a) complete an extensive test and R&D, b) complete a pilot test programme and c) develop a concept design for a nominal 50 tph demonstration plant. The pilot mill was commissioned and the team conducted several hundred hours of testing. The parallel R&D programme was completed. Together these highlighted where the technology is ready for production and where it requires on-going development. The results were used to develop two demonstration mill concept designs.
Expected long term effects
The project brings the ARBS a big step closer to commercialization. Commercial viability has been demonstrated for small operations, coarser products and softer ores, and on-going industry funding will develop the technology for larger-scale deployment. These outcomes will help reduce the environmental footprint of the mining industry, contributing to reduced energy and water consumption, higher mineral recovery, improved disposal of mine tailings and powering from renewable sources.
Approach and implementation
The team successfully executed the plan to commission two pilot units and extensively tested their performance in parallel with an on-going R&D programme. The plan was modified and equipment upgraded based on the test results. The industry partners’ collaboration included extensive use of their facilities, participation in the testing and regular project reporting sessions. The remaining technology challenges were clearly identified and form the core of the on-going development programme.