TOMRA Mining is shaking things up in the mining sector, and it’s about time we take notice. This Norway-based giant is not just another player in the field; it’s redefining how we think about mineral recovery and processing. Their recent involvement in Lucara Diamond’s discovery of one of the largest rough-cut diamonds ever found is a prime example of their impact. The Karowe mine in Botswana, where this monumental diamond was unearthed, utilized Tomra’s X-ray transmission (XRT) technology. Albert du Preez, head of Tomra Mining, proudly stated, “We at Tomra Mining are proud to be part of Lucara’s incredible journey, with our XRT technology contributing to their historic recoveries.” This collaboration showcases the power of technological innovation in extracting value from the earth.
But the story doesn’t stop there. TOMRA is also making waves in the lithium sector, a market that’s hotter than a summer day in the desert. Their critical role in the world’s largest lithium sorting plant at Pilbara Minerals’ P680 expansion project in Western Australia is nothing short of groundbreaking. With a sorting capacity exceeding 1,000 tons per hour, this facility is poised to change the game in hard-rock lithium processing. Not only does it enhance lithium recovery, but it also improves the quality of the final product. Gavin Rech, area sales and technical manager for Tomra Mining, emphasized the collaborative spirit that fueled this project, stating, “The success of this project is a testament to Tomra Mining’s collaborative approach and capacity to deliver innovative, large-scale, high-capacity sorting solutions tailored to the unique demands of our clients.”
One of the thorny issues in lithium mining is the management of spodumene ore within barren host rock, which can severely hamper traditional metallurgical methods. Tomra’s high-precision sensor-based sorting technology is a game-changer here. By deploying ten sorters—ranging from TOMRA XRT COM TER for fines to TOMRA PRO for coarse-sized particles—the facility efficiently removes barren material upstream. This upstream sorting not only streamlines downstream processes but also cuts energy consumption by an impressive 8-15 GWh annually. That’s a win-win for both the environment and the bottom line.
The journey for Tomra and Pilbara Minerals began in 2017, with geological assessments and bulk test work at Tomra’s Sydney test center. This groundwork laid the foundation for the sorting plant design, ensuring that the equipment would perform under real-world conditions. The close partnership between Tomra and Pilbara, along with engineering partner DRA Global, exemplifies how collaboration can lead to innovative solutions that tackle the unique challenges of modern mining.
As TOMRA continues to lead the charge in sensor-based sorting technology, the implications for the mining industry are profound. This technology not only enhances efficiency and recovery rates but also sets a new standard for sustainability. With the global demand for lithium skyrocketing due to the electric vehicle boom and renewable energy initiatives, TOMRA’s advancements may well shape the future landscape of mining. The industry is at a crossroads, and companies that embrace this new wave of technology will likely find themselves ahead of the curve, ready to tackle the challenges of tomorrow.
