Gold extraction

Here are some frequently asked questions

• Can I use RC drill intervals for my gold testwork program?

  Short answer is yes, for indicative testing on known samples. Keep in mind that the RC drilling process imparts a lot of energy into the material and produces in many cases a very fine particle size distribution, possibly much finer than required. This will influence free gold liberation and possibly skew results. Diamond drill core or ROM material are always preferable for metallurgical testwork.

• How much sample mass do I need for a gold program?

  Well, that depends on the sample material and extent of the program, but some rough guidelines are as follows:/p>

  • Head analysis 1-2 kg
  • Grind establishment (GE) 2-5 kg (depending on no. of grind targets)
  • Leaching optimisation 1 kg per test so 10-50 kg usually suffices
  • Heap (Column) Leaching 12 kg/m (100mm Ø) 70 kg/m (2400mm Ø)
  • GRG Test 20-80 kg depending on mass pull
• Can you receive multiple container deliveries?

  Yes, up to 4x40' sea containers at one time.

• Will ALS treat hazardous samples?

  Generally, yes. ALS has facilities and procedures to treat fibrous and radioactive samples. Surcharges do apply, however, to cover safety equipment, monitoring and decontamination.

• Our samples are from overseas, what do I do?

  ALS is a quarantine approved premises and treats many samples of oversea origin.  Strict regulatory requirements are in needed around packaging and paperwork, however.  ALS can advise you on these requirements.

• Can I send plant slurry samples?

  Yes, ALS can filter your plant slurry samples as required.

• Can I do my own testwork at ALS?

  Generally, no. Insurance and safety protocols typically prevent renting laboratory space and this is not part of our business model. Exceptions can be made under certain circumstances though, where larger test programs are already in place.

• Can my associates and I view the testwork at ALS

  Yes, clients are always welcome to visit our facilities and observe samples or tests in progress. Inductions are required and other rules may apply to visitors.

• Will ALS dispatch my samples to third parties?

  Yes, if a testwork program is in progress, ALS will happily dispatch testwork products and feed samples to vendors, third party laboratories, and customers as required. Fees apply.

• Does ALS do bulk gold pilot testwork?

  Generally, it is not required as the engineering around gold processing is so highly developed after many decades and the construction of hundreds of gold processing plants. Exceptions do arise, however, so contact us if you have an unusual requirement and will see what we can do to assist.

• Does ALS do design engineering and consulting?

  No, as it is not our core business and would put us in direct competition with many of our clients. We can, however, put you in contact with a range of reputable engineering providers and consultants.