Optimised design reduces cost

Ausenco’s involvement with the project began in 2007, with several studies completed before the fixed price EPC contract was signed in May 2016.

The scope of the EPC contract included the delivery of a 2 mtpa Carbon-In-Leach gold processing plant and associated site infrastructure. The plant is designed to produce ~90,000 ounces of gold per annum. The first gold was poured in October 2017.

Ausenco’s extensive experience delivering low cost plants under this contracting method speaks to our focus on fit-for-purpose design and efficiency in systems and processes.

Ausenco implemented the following capital reduction strategies:

• Site layout optimisation - significant reduction in earthworks, optimised building location and layout
• Plant layout optimisation - significant reduction in bulk quantities - concrete, structural steel, piping, electrical cables
• Flowsheet optimisation - removal of pre-leach thickener
• Fit for purpose design - utilisation of semi-mobile 3-stage crushing plant
• Appropriate use of modular and pre-fabricated packages - crushing plant, elution circuit, effluent treatment plant, CIL tanks

Located in a Maritime Temperate zone, with cycles of freeze-thaw during winter months rather than extended periods of intense cold, meant special consideration was given to the design and to weather potential so that the project was delivered on schedule.

View Moose River infographic for a snapshot of the project.