TAKRAF Group has secured a significant contract from the National Copper Corporation of Chile (Codelco), the world’s largest copper producer. The contract involves supplying seven DELKOR High-Density Thickeners and shear thinning technology for the Talabre Thickened Tailings Project (Proyecto Relaves Espesados Talabre or PRET). This project aims to manage copper tailings from Codelco’s North operations, marking a pivotal step in the evolution of tailings management in the mining sector.
The Talabre tailings dam, currently serving Codelco’s Ministro Hales and Chuquicamata operations, is nearing the end of its useful life. The PRET project is designed to extend the lifespan of tailings storage and improve water recovery and emissions reduction. The first phase of PRET, which TAKRAF is supplying equipment for, is scheduled to commence operations in the first half of 2027. This timeline is crucial for Codelco to maintain effective tailings management and meet projected production levels.
The contract, signed in the fourth quarter of 2024, covers the engineering, supply, technical assistance, and spares for seven 60-meter diameter DELKOR High-Density Thickeners. These thickeners, some of the highest torque ever supplied by DELKOR, are renowned for their strong dewatering capabilities. Additionally, the project includes a multitude of DELKOR Shear Thinning Systems and ancillaries. The second phase of PRET will involve further equipment to manage tailings from Codelco’s Radomiro Tomic operations.
The dewatering process via the DELKOR Thickeners will reclaim a significant amount of water, reintroducing it directly into the mining process. This approach reduces the need for fresh water intake and ensures continuous operation at Codelco’s North facilities. The high water recovery rate of each thickener is essential for maintaining the necessary water supply for concentrator plants, which would otherwise face severe operational challenges.
Andres Costa, Managing Director of TAKRAF Chile and Peru, emphasized the importance of this project in supporting Codelco’s environmental sustainability and operational safety goals. “We are proud to continue our strong partnership with Codelco, supporting its commitment to environmental sustainability and operational safety. Our DELKOR High-Density Thickener is particularly suited to such applications where high water recovery is required. Through efficient and reliable water and tailings management solutions, we are able to assist our clients in meeting their goals while contributing to safer and more sustainable mining practices,” Costa stated.
TAKRAF Group CEO Thomas Jabs highlighted the significance of this project award in reaffirming DELKOR’s global leadership in dewatering solutions. “This project award reaffirms TAKRAF Group’s DELKOR brand as a global front runner and expert in dewatering solutions. Our DELKOR Thickener technology, together with other DELKOR dewatering technologies, play a crucial role in enabling operations to recover and recycle water, reduce their tailings footprint, and enhance process efficiency. These solutions not only address the challenges of water scarcity in regions like Chile but also contribute to safer and more responsible operations,” Jabs added.
The PRET project is set to influence the broader mining industry by demonstrating the feasibility and benefits of advanced tailings management technologies. As water scarcity and environmental regulations become increasingly pressing issues, the success of PRET could set a new standard for sustainable mining practices. The project’s focus on water recovery and emissions reduction aligns with global trends towards more environmentally responsible mining operations. This development may encourage other mining companies to adopt similar technologies, fostering a more sustainable and efficient mining sector.
The PRET project also underscores the importance of long-term planning and investment in infrastructure. By addressing the limitations of existing tailings dams and investing in cutting-edge technology, Codelco is positioning itself for future growth and sustainability. This forward-thinking approach could inspire other mining companies to prioritize infrastructure development and technological innovation.
Moreover, the PRET project highlights the role of partnerships between mining companies and technology providers. The collaboration between Codelco and TAKRAF Group demonstrates how shared goals and expertise can drive innovation and sustainability in the mining sector. This partnership model could become a blueprint for future collaborations, fostering a more collaborative and innovative mining industry.
The PRET project is a testament to the evolving landscape of tailings management in the mining sector. As the industry continues to grapple with environmental and operational challenges, projects like PRET offer a glimpse into the future of sustainable mining. By embracing advanced technologies and prioritizing environmental stewardship, the mining industry can achieve a more sustainable and responsible future.