Capability Statement

SDF provides a wide range of mineral processing and hydrometallurgy design and plant optimisation expertise. The SDF team has a wealth of experience in the mining industry, both in Australia and internationally. The primary focus of SDF is to utilise this experience and expertise to assist mining companies extract maximum value from their investment.

At SDF, we believe that the quality of decisions taken during the initial stages of project development greatly influence the ultimate project outcome.

Influence Curve (pdf)

Our key focus is to work with clients from the earliest stages of project development to determine the most effective process route. Typical considerations include:

Impact of ore characteristics on process design
Metallurgical testwork definition, management and interpretation
Process selection and flowsheet development
Process modelling and simulation
Technical and economic comparison of flowsheet options
Development of process design criteria, mass balances and key equipment sizing
Establishment of process control strategy and philosophy

Following process definition, SDF has the capability to continue working with clients to assist with study management and project implementation strategies. Specifically, SDF can provide the following services:

Pre-feasibility study preparation or supervision
Value engineering review
Definitive feasibility study supervision and management
Detailed design assistance or overview
Commissioning procedures or management
Process optimisation and modernisation
Operational support and audits
Troubleshooting
General study and project management services.


Planning Logic Flowchart (pdf) Hold cursor over a circle on the above chart for extra information about that step (may not work with operating systems other than Windows). For a more detailed flowchart download the Acrobat version of the flowchart by clicking on the above link.