EQ Resources (EQR) has received a $250,000 grant through Queensland’s METS (mining equipment, technology, and services) collaborative project fund. This financial boost will support trials of advanced X-ray transmission (XRT) ore sorting technology, aimed at redeveloping the historic Wolfram Camp tungsten mine. This EQ Resources tungsten mine redevelopment is key to advancing Queensland’s critical minerals strategy while promoting local economic development.
Utilising XRT Technology for Mining Efficiency
The funding will enable trials of cutting-edge XRT ore sorting, helping assess the viability of redeveloping the Wolfram Camp site, which lies 100 km southwest of EQR’s operational Mt Carbine tungsten mine. Tomra Sorting, known for its success in ore sorting technology, is providing the necessary equipment. Their experience from the Mt Carbine mine and Barruecopardo mine in Spain will be instrumental in supporting EQR’s tungsten cluster in Queensland.
The University of Queensland’s Sustainable Minerals Institute (SMI) is also involved, offering geometallurgical analysis to optimise the sorting process for tungsten and molybdenum deposits. This analysis is crucial for ensuring the project’s success in enhancing mining efficiency.
Aligning with Queensland’s Critical Minerals Strategy
According to EQR’s CEO, Kevin MacNeill, this funding is crucial for the company’s broader plans to develop a Queensland tungsten cluster. He explained that by implementing advanced ore sorting and geometallurgical techniques, EQR aims to rejuvenate the historic Wolfram Camp site, bringing it in line with Queensland’s critical minerals strategy.
MacNeill also pointed out that the success of this trial could lead to the full redevelopment of the Wolfram Camp, providing further economic growth opportunities and reinforcing EQR’s technological leadership in the mining industry.
Economic Growth and Sustainable Mining
If the trials prove successful, the redevelopment of Wolfram Camp could unlock significant regional economic benefits by supporting local jobs and contributing to the development of Queensland’s sustainable minerals industry. The project also aligns with Queensland’s broader efforts to re-commercialize former mines, reinforcing the state’s reputation as a leader in the global critical minerals supply chain.
EQR continues to invest in tungsten mining operations in both Australia and Spain, reinforcing its commitment to innovation and sustainable practices in the critical minerals sector.
Conclusion: Pioneering Technological Innovation in Queensland
This project represents an exciting opportunity for Queensland’s critical minerals sector. EQR’s collaboration with Tomra Sorting and the University of Queensland is a significant step towards modernising historic mining sites. The outcome could strengthen Queensland’s position as a global leader in the sustainable production of critical minerals.
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