Terra Goyana Mining (TGM), a titan in Brazil’s bauxite industry, has taken a bold step towards sustainability and efficiency with the integration of Sensor-Based Sorting (SBS) technology. This move is not just a technological upgrade; it’s a strategic pivot that could reshape the mining sector’s approach to sustainability and market responsiveness.
TGM, accounting for 5.5% of Brazil’s national bauxite production, has long been a key player in the market. Its operations at the Barro Alto mine in Goiás and its international commercial relationships have solidified its position. However, the company’s recent challenges, particularly in meeting stringent market standards, have pushed it to innovate. The goal was clear: transform compact bauxite into a material with acceptable calcium and aluminium content, a task that demanded more than conventional methods.
The implementation of SBS technology, in partnership with STEINERT Latinoamericana, marks a significant shift. This technology, also known as “Ore Sorting,” enables dry separation using sensors that identify the ore’s composition in real time. This is a game-changer. Unlike traditional methods that involve water-intensive processes and tailings dams, Ore Sorting promotes a more sustainable and efficient operation. “The application of Ore Sorter is crucial to meeting the requirements of specific markets, such as the refractory abrasives market, due to the strict standards regarding calcium oxide (CaO) content,” said José Maurício, TGM’s planning manager.
The benefits are manifold. After two rounds of tests and fine-tuning, STEINERT’s technology has proven its capability to reject particles with high iron content, significantly increase aluminium oxide (Al₂O₃) levels, and reduce impurities to meet market standards. This technological leap not only enhances TGM’s competitiveness but also positions it as a benchmark in sustainable mining. The company is aligning with best environmental practices and the growing global demand for more responsible operations.
This development is a wake-up call for the mining sector. It underscores the need for innovation in the face of environmental and market challenges. TGM’s success with Ore Sorting technology could inspire other mining companies to explore similar solutions, driving a broader shift towards sustainability. The mining industry is at a crossroads, and TGM’s move signals a path forward that prioritizes both profitability and environmental responsibility.
The implications are vast. As more companies adopt similar technologies, the industry could see a significant reduction in water usage and the elimination of tailings dams, addressing two of the most pressing environmental concerns in mining. Moreover, the enhanced product quality could open new market opportunities, particularly in sectors with strict standards like the refractory abrasives market.
However, the journey is not without challenges. The initial investment in new technology can be substantial, and the learning curve for implementation can be steep. But TGM’s experience shows that the long-term benefits—both environmental and commercial—are worth the effort. The company’s success story serves as a compelling case study for the mining industry, demonstrating that sustainability and profitability are not mutually exclusive.
The partnership between TGM and STEINERT has strengthened over more than a year of operation, highlighting the potential for long-term collaboration in driving innovation. As the mining industry continues to evolve, such partnerships will be crucial in shaping a more sustainable future. TGM’s bold move is a testament to the power of innovation in overcoming challenges and setting new industry standards. The sector is watching, and the future of mining is looking greener and more efficient.
