The extent of this project’s success has far-reaching implications for the Langer Heinrich operation now and into the future. Expectation for BRP to exceed design benefit by up to 100% and establish a new paradigm in carbonate uranium processing
Paladin Energy, Quarterly Activities Report April 2015
Utilising the patented technology developed at the Kayelekera Acid Recovery Plant in Malawi, BMS Engineers delivered a second membrane filtration plant for Paladin Energy at the Langer Heinrich mine in Namibia: one of the largest uranium mines in Africa.
Commissioned in March 2015, the Bicarbonate Recovery Plant was designed to recover sodium bicarbonate from a stream of concentrated uranium eluate liquor.
BMS Engineers were responsible for:
- Pilot plant trials
- Detailed plant design
- Installation
- Commissioning
- Operator training
- Remote plant monitoring
- Technical support
The plant consisted of ultrafiltration (UF) followed by three stages of nanofiltration (NF).
Operation of the BRP brought with it significant cost savings for both fresh sodium bicarbonate and neutralisation chemical reagents. The BRP also significantly reduced the consumption of water: a precious and costly resource in the African desert.
