Using comminution energy intensity curves to assess efficiency of gold processing circuits

The mining industry has acknowledged the need for an effective method and platform to benchmark comminution energy intensity and motivate action to improve productivity and earnings. This paper aims to present a novel approach utilizing comminution energy intensity curves as a benchmarking tool to assess the efficiency of gold processing circuits. The methodology involves generating an energy curve report that compares the comminution energy intensity of a specific mine against other operations, thereby establishing baseline operating efficiency. Utilizing five interchangeable metrics, including kWh/t, Bond work index, and size-specific energy (SSE), the study emphasizes the practical application of SSE for measuring energy efficiency. Detailed circuit analysis at two mines reinforces the identified inefficiencies, illustrating the effectiveness of the SSE intensity energy curve in optimizing operations. Through comprehensive methodology outlining performance assessment via energy curves and SSE calculation, the findings reveal substantial benefits in enhancing energy productivity throughout the processing circuit. The results indicate that operators can achieve greater cost-efficiency by leveraging benchmarking insights, ultimately prompting a shift towards best practices in energy consumption within the mining sector.