Trial recovers oil

A reduction in resource use, manual handling and environmental impact are just some of the benefits of Kestrel Mine’s latest initiative.

The mine is initiating a new way of dispensing oil liquids from the bottom of 1,000 litre cubes rather than from the top.

“By making this simple modification to the existing dispensing method of all 1,000 litre cubes, we will reap enormous benefits across the site,” Kestrel Mine environmental officer Stuart Jenkinson said.

“The proposed modification will reduce the amount of double handling and resources required to empty these containers.

“In addition, it is expected to also improve recovery rate and eliminate the waste of an estimated 9,100 litres of new oil each year. Aan average cost of $2.08 per litre, that would save $19,000 a year.”

Stuart said prior to the improvement the mine would lose approximately 100 litres of fluid per cube which was consequently disposed of as waste oil.

“This innovation is an initiative all mine sites could adopt, which would not only reduce resource consumption but would ultimately help reduce our impact on the environment,” Stuart said.

Pictured: (below) Approximately 100 litres of unused oil can now be accessed, providing optimum recovery rate.