Case studies: Materials & Mining
Tungsten West Using Xybion LIMS to Grade Ore
Solution: LIMS
Tungsten West
Tungsten West is preparing to produce tungsten and tin once again from its mine in the southwest of the UK. The laboratory uses XRF spectrometry extensively to analyze the ore and concentrate samples taken as the material is refined. It has adopted industry best practices, including the use of Xybion LIMS (formerly Matrix Gemini LIMS), to help ensure mineral assays are accurate and data is traceable.
Background
In the Southwest of the UK the counties of Devon and Cornwall have a long history of mining for tin, copper and other metals going back to the bronze age. In recent years the demand for tungsten and tin has increased dramatically due to their use in new technology, such as electric vehicle car batteries. This has enabled the Hemerdon Mine, owned by Tungsten West, to initiate mining activities once again. Tungsten West’s in-house laboratory assays samples from initial extraction from the pit, through production, to the final shipment, helping to ensure the efficiency of the extraction process and quality of the final product.
The laboratory will primarily use X-Ray Florescence (XRF) spectrometer techniques to assay the ore and concentrate samples taken as the material passes through each phase of refinement. Feedback from this testing will be used to improve processes and maximize extraction of the tungsten and tin. The laboratory is currently testing around 1000 samples a month, which will rise to 6000 samples a month as production ramps up.
"Developing and integrating a complex system can be challenging, but Autoscribe has provided invaluable assistance every step of the way. Their support has been instrumental in ensuring a smooth and successful implementation process. The team has been consistently friendly, helpful, and responsive"
Tungsten West
Challenges
The laboratory has been using standard Microsoft office tools to record and report sample data and manage the workflow. As sample numbers increase, relying on these tools will become unsustainable for the laboratory. Managing data, compiling reports, and implementing an effective quality control system is becoming increasingly difficult. Additionally increasing sample numbers will require increasing staffing to meet the high standards required. The laboratory will need to ensure adherence to Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) and track compliance with required standards. Auditability of the sample process flow will be impossible with Microsoft alone.
The Laboratory Manager was looking to improve data management and traceability, increase efficiency of the laboratory, enhance sample and workflow management, drive collaboration, and use advanced data analysis. “These benefits will improve productivity, quality, and overall operational effectiveness in Tungsten West’s laboratory, as well as the profitability of the overall business”. In addition, the requirements of ISO9001, 45001 and 14001 must be met.
As the mined ore is processed samples will be taken and tested. The product will be held in drums which will then be blended into the final product of a known composition for shipment to the offtaker (customer). The laboratory relies heavily on XRF spectrometry to analyze the samples throughout the process.
