Dewatering System To Help Improve Mining Tailings Pond Management

Through the use of a dewatering system, a new partnership between Veolia Water Solutions & Technologies and Genesis Water will help mining companies improve tailings management, recycle water and reduce reliance on tailings ponds -- providing a sustainable solution while meeting regulatory requirements.

The technology, Genesis' Rapid Dewatering System (RDS), achieves a 1:1 ratio of dredging (inflow) to dewatering of sub-micron particulates at high throughputs. The system can be operated continuously with minimal energy and maintenance requirements and offers the benefit of immediate clear-water recovery and the production of stackable, transportable solids, which can be more efficiently handled or further processed for asset recovery such as gravel, sand and soil.

This technology helps resolve many mining industry problems in a sustainable manner that meets the highest environmental standards. Mining operations have historically relied upon tailings ponds for dewatering of fine fluid tailings, which can create environmental and operational capacity issues. The inefficiencies of tailings ponds require mine operators to secure more land and necessary regulatory approvals to construct new ponds. Hydraulic loading in ponds and the need for eventual restoration puts stress on the environment. 

Chris Howell, global market director of mining and primary metals for Veolia, stated, "Tailings management and water recovery are critical components of any mining operation, and the ability to reduce reliance on tailings ponds opens up new possibilities for mining operations worldwide."

About Genesis Water
Genesis Water is an innovative water technology company specializing in the rapid separation of water and solids, known as dewatering. Genesis equipment is available to partners and end users worldwide in industries such as dredging, mining, and oil & gas. For more information, visit www.genesiswater.com.

About Veolia Water Solutions & Technologies
Veolia Water Solutions & Technologies is the Veolia Water subsidiary specialized in technological solutions and design and build projects for water and wastewater treatment, serving industrial and municipal clients. Veolia Water Solutions & Technologies recorded revenue of $3.1 billion in 2012. For more information, visit www.veoliawaterst.com or www.veoliawaterstna.com.