Summary

This review describes heap leach pads. It lists several consulting companies specializing in heap leach pad design, construction and operation. Performance and stability of the pads is also discussed, and links to several software are given.

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PAD DESCRIPTION

The basic components of heap leach pads are described by Hutchinson and Ellison (1992). A recent review of the state of practice of heap leach pad layouts is that by Thiel and Smith (2003). Wikipedia has a brief overview. See also the many papers in the InfoMine library.

CONSTRUCTION & OPERATION

General
Operation of the HLP is done in accordance with industry-, company-, and site-specific procedures. Generally this involves compliance with formal and/or informal Standard Operating Procedures, Health and Safety Plans, Emergency Response Plans, permits, and relevant and applicable laws and regulations.

Ore Placement Systems
Suppliers of systems to apply solution to the HLP are listed in the Infomine supplier's catalogue.

Solution Application Systems
Suppliers of systems to apply solution to the HLP are listed in the Infomine supplier's catalogue. For example, see Ore Max and Black-Line International.

Contract Mining
Your heap leach pad can be managed by contract. Contact the Washington Group International for example. AMES lists four projects where they have been involved in heap leach pad construction.

Envirocon have closed out heap leach pads in Nevada.