African Mining August 2025 | Page 19

TECHNOLOGY •
Efficient wastewater treatment reduces the risk of regulatory fines associated with environmental violations, and by preventing equipment failures and optimising treatment processes, mining operations can achieve cost savings and enhance profitability.
The VEGATOR 121 signal conditioning instrument. prevent overflows and ensure efficient mixing. The VEGAPULS C 21, a non-contact radar sensor, offers continuous level measurement unaffected by changing water compositions or environmental conditions, providing reliable data to operators.
sludge must be dewatered to reduce its volume before disposal or further treatment. This process often involves centrifuges or filter presses, where maintaining optimal levels is crucial to prevent overflows or equipment damage. The VEGASWING 63, a vibrating level switch, provides reliable point level detection in filter water tanks, ensuring pumps are activated or deactivated as needed to maintain desired levels. Additionally, the VEGACAP 65 capacitive point level sensor, paired with the VEGATOR 121 signal conditioning instrument, monitors the discharge of dewatered sludge – preventing blockages and ensuring smooth operation.
Mixing and equalisation ponds Mixing and equalisation ponds play a vital role in balancing variations in wastewater composition and flow rates, creating a more uniform influent for subsequent treatment processes. Accurate water level measurement in these ponds is essential to
The VEGAPULS C 21, a non-contact radar sensor.
The growing need for effective wastewater management in Africa’ s mining sector highlights the importance of these technologies. The Middle East and Africa water and wastewater treatment market is projected to reach USD44.5-billion by 2032, growing at a compound annual growth rate( CAGR) of 4.1 % from 2025 to 2032. 1 This growth reflects increasing investments in infrastructure aimed at addressing water contamination issues, including those arising from mining activities.
Economic advantages of advanced instrumentation Implementing effective practices not only helps protect the environment but also provides economic benefits. Efficient wastewater treatment reduces the risk of regulatory fines for environmental violations. By preventing equipment failures and optimising treatment processes, mining operations can save costs and improve profitability.
The VEGACAP 65 capacitive point level sensor paired with the VEGATOR 121 signal conditioning instrument, monitors the discharge of dewatered sludge – preventing blockages and ensuring smooth operation. www. africanmining. co. za African Mining Publication African Mining African Mining • August 2025 • 17