November 2025
Fit-for-purpose process engineering: insights from the field
Thought leadership series
“Most of the ore bodies you’re going to treat are going to be complex or semi-refractory,” says Delonix Solutions’ Technical Expert in Processing and Advisory, Dr Leon Lorenzen.
The days of cookie-cutter plants are limited as new ore bodies discovered becomes more complex and refractory. Mining now demands agility and practical thinking.
Dr Lorenzen is clear. “You can’t just treat those types of ore bodies in a standard process plant,” he said, as he points out the potential benefits of modular systems, advanced ore sorting and clever adaptation of unit operations, such as flotation, pressure oxidation (Pox), Albion process and more.
Delonix Solutions specialises in tailored mineral processing, with the mission to deliver fit-for-purpose process plant solutions for mine sites.
“It is important to understand the client’s long-term aspirations, their ore body and the mineralogy at hand,” Dr Lorenzen said. “Not every site needs a Formula One plant. Sometimes a well-tuned Camry is exactly right. Build what the client needs and build it sustainably.”
Smarter management is also key. “If you can use less energy, reduce your waste footprint and work smarter, you’re moving towards true sustainability,” he added.
Dr Lorenzen highlights the value of upstream efficiency. “Better blasting techniques mean the material arriving at the plant is more uniform, which saves energy and reduces costs,” he said.
By focusing on these practical steps, process engineering can help mining operations achieve stronger returns and a smaller environmental footprint.
View our process engineering services and capabilities here.
