Efficient performance of thickeners, clarifiers, washers, settlers and classifiers is crucial to most mineral processing, hydrometallurgical and water treatment operations. In our experience there is very significant scope for improvement in most applications. The challenges are to understand how to increase throughput, enhance performance (overflow clarity, underflow density, flocculant usage), reduce costs, improve operational stability. This can be achieved through modifications to operating practice, retrofitting existing units and the development of new design concepts.

Over the last fifteen years, a series of AMIRA P266 Improving Thickener Technology projects, led by researchers from the AJ Parker Centre, has considerably advanced the understanding of the fundamental processes occurring within gravity thickeners, through the coupling of computational fluid dynamics (CFD) modelling, physical modelling, experiments, flocculation chemistry and extensive on-site measurements. As a consequence of long-term support from the minerals industry, the team now leads the world in identifying the key factors affecting full-scale thickener performance and in modifying design and operating conditions to realise improved performance for mineral processing companies. The latest project, P266E, commenced in May 2005 and finished in May 2008, and represents the fifth extension of the original project.

This website will provide a brief introduction to P266 for anyone wishing to understand the project, how it operates and how to become involved. Access to confidential project details is restricted to sponsors. Passwords allow entry via the Sponsors Login section.

For further information or feedback on the project please contact either David Nairn or Carolyn Linane.