A filtration model for optimization of a

This paper presents a theoretical model aimed at predicting dissolved gold loss from a rotary vacuum filter, developed within the context of optimizing control for gold extraction plants. The objective of the study was to enhance the operational efficiency of gold mining facilities operated by Gold Fields of South Africa by implementing an optimization strategy. The methodology involved formulating a filtration model that utilizes a modification of the Hagen-Poiseuille equation and the Choudhury and Dahlstrom washing equation, requiring the determination of three key parameters: cake and cloth resistances, and filter washing efficiency. Results indicate that the model provides accurate predictions of the filter's response to variations in independent variables, thus serving as a valuable tool for plant optimization studies. The anticipated outcomes from optimizing control include improved recovery rates, reduced manual adjustments and operator errors, minimized supervision requirements, and overall enhanced process stability, leading to more consistent metallurgical performance. These advancements are expected to contribute significantly to operational profitability and efficiency in gold extraction processes.