Estudio del Sistema de Relleno de Mina
Proyecto Nazareth

The project, located in Puno, sought to implement a structural fill solution that would allow the exploitation of new reserves and the underground disposal of tailings, aligning with the operational objectives of the San Rafael Mining Unit and the Nazareth Project.

The challenge

La evaluación técnica consideró múltiples configuraciones y tecnologías, partiendo de cinco (5) alternativas iniciales.

 

Context

Mediante análisis multicriterio (técnico, económico y de gestión) y el análisis de conos de influencia para optimizar la cobertura de caserones por gravedad, se definió una alternativa híbrida (Alternativa 1C) basada en la planta de relleno integrada subterránea (Alternativa 1A) pero reubicada en las cercanías de la planta existente de San Rafael.

The BRASS Solution

From a hydraulic engineering perspective, the analysis determined that Alternative 1A offers significant advantages: it reduces operational complexity by requiring only one paste pumping station compared to four in Alternative 1C, decreases energy consumption, and simplifies the pumping system. Additionally, cost estimates support this conclusion. 

Key aspects of the design carried out

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Multicriteria Analysis and Definition of the Optimal Alternative
Comparison of five configuration alternatives under technical, economic and environmental management criteria.
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Optimization of the Hydraulic System for Transporting Paste
Development of hydraulic models to determine pressure gradients, head losses and power requirements, considering scenarios with and without pipe wear.
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Integration of Metallurgical Results and Cost Estimation Class 4
Metallurgical tests were conducted to characterize the rheology, sedimentation, and compressive strength of the cemented paste, also identifying that the low sulfur content in the tailings minimizes the risk of expansive effects from sulfates. This information allowed for the determination of CapEx and OpEx estimates that reflected substantial differences between alternatives.

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