Zimbabwean Expertise Shines in Mimosa Tailings Dam Construction

The TSF-4 construction at Mimosa platinum mine shows local firms’ ingenuity collaborating with SRK Consulting. Complying with GISTM, the facility addresses specific local conditions, ensuring effective tailings management. Key local contractors enhance the project’s impact, reflecting a strategy of empowerment and responsible mining practices.

The construction of the TSF-4 tailings storage facility at Mimosa platinum mine, the second largest of its kind in Zimbabwe, highlights the ingenuity of local firms working alongside SRK Consulting. Appointed by the Mimosa Mining Company, SRK Consulting finalized the design in May 2022. The ongoing contract till March 2024 encompasses civil works and installation of electrical infrastructure, alongside oversight of project quality and scheduling, as stated by Andrew Robertshaw, SRK partner and principal civil engineer.

“SRK was involved in oversight of the project implementation, its quality and its scheduling,” noted Robertshaw, emphasizing the project’s significant technological advancements. TSF-4 measures 1 km by 1.3 km and has a storage capacity to support a production rate of 466,000 tonnes per month over a 20-year period. The effective integration of local companies reflects the empowerment embedded in the client’s strategy, with Harare-based Forit Contracting and Kumba Resources Zimbabwe playing major roles.

The facility was designed to meet the Global Industry Standard on Tailings Management (GISTM) from 2020 while addressing specific local conditions, such as the high talc content in tailings that affects water drainage. McNeil explained that an effective drainage system is crucial in this scenario to minimize risks associated with water accumulation and possible structural failures.

To effectively drain the tailings, SRK devised a sophisticated system that includes a pond structure, a pump station connecting to a silt-trap dam, and a return water dam to ensure proper sedimentation. McNeil pointed out the importance of a thorough understanding of seepage dynamics and emphasized incorporating future-proofing elements into the design to enhance operational longevity.

The TSF is fitted with an advanced network of drains and internal paddocks, which facilitate the separation of coarser tailings from finer ones, reducing the clutter of the primary drainage system. The main drains are strategically positioned to ensure optimal performance as the facility capacity grows, allowing for structural stability whilst preventing potential failures.

McNeil elaborated on the comprehensive design of the penstock towers and pipelines, which serve both operational redundancy and maintenance ease. This reflects Impala’s philosophy of ensuring the dependability of vital infrastructure in place to mitigate operational risks.

The establishment of an on-site laboratory by Kumba Resources Zimbabwe underscores the project’s emphasis on quality assurance. Equipped with technical support from SRK, this laboratory has provided timely sample analyses necessary for the project’s progression. Robertshaw commended the laboratory team’s dedication and expertise, which has led to an enhanced operational capacity.

Forit Contracting’s role in the project underscores the effective collaboration between the mine, SRK, and local contractors in optimizing resources. By enhancing their earthmoving fleet during the project’s escalation, they could manage the site clearance more efficiently. Meanwhile, SRK’s specialists ensured adherence to safety and quality standards throughout the construction process, contributing to a community-engaged outcome that respects responsible mining practices.

The construction of TSF-4 at the Mimosa platinum mine exemplifies local expertise and collaboration, showcasing the significant advancements made in tailings management. The involvement of local companies and adherence to international standards illustrate a commitment to responsible and sustainable mining practices. This project not only enhances operational efficiencies but also contributes positively to local economic empowerment and environmental considerations.

Original Source: africanminingmarket.com