Water treatment plant at Mont-Wright
Water treatment plant at Mont-Wright
2023
Mining
Design and deliver the engineering of a water treatment plant at the Mont-Wright mining complex with gbi’s expertise.
The engineering of this water treatment plant at ArcelorMittal Mines and Infrastructure Canada’s Mont-Wright mining complex was entrusted to gbi’s experienced team. Our engineers handled the planning and design of hydraulic and water treatment infrastructures while adhering to the safety and efficiency standards specific to the mining industry.
With a very high flow rate of 1.8 m³/s to be treated, the plant’s hydraulic design required a thorough analysis to manage hydraulic transients while minimizing costs. This approach demonstrates gbi’s ability to provide innovative and high-performance solutions for water treatment in demanding mining projects.
Adapting to evolving water quality standards
During the project, water quality standards were tightened, requiring the integration of additional reactive dosing systems.
These systems not only enable the effective precipitation of metals present in the water, but also allow for continuous pH adjustment to ensure compliance with the new environmental standards.
With this solution, the treatment plant is now able to quickly adapt to variations in the quality of the raw water—an essential factor in the mining context, where conditions can change unpredictably. This adaptability demonstrates the robustness of the design while highlighting gbi’s flexibility and technical expertise. The proactive integration of these systems also reflects the importance placed on sustainability and on meeting the highest standards of environmental protection.
A water treatment plant adapted to the mining context
The project is based on the design of a water treatment plant specifically tailored to the needs of a mining site. Equipped with two pumping stations and two water intakes from the settling basins, the facility enables efficient management of flow variations and raw water quality. This approach ensures the sustainable protection of water resources while meeting the environmental requirements associated with mining activities.
High-performance Densadeg lamella settlers
The integration of two Densadeg lamella settlers is a key feature of the project. Each settler includes a coagulation and pH control reactor, as well as a flocculation reactor. This advanced technology ensures rapid settling and optimal water clarification, promoting the removal of suspended solids and metals. This process delivers high performance, even in the presence of significant variability in the raw water.
Comprehensive water and sludge management
Beyond water treatment, the plant includes a filtration and UV disinfection system for domestic service water, ensuring water quality that meets the strictest standards. In parallel, a pumping, conditioning, and sludge dewatering system has been implemented. This dual approach optimizes the overall treatment performance while minimizing the environmental impacts associated with residue management.
Integrated and sustainable infrastructures
The project is also distinguished by the construction of a technical building measuring 80 m × 33 m, integrating structural and mechanical design, including plumbing and ventilation. In addition, peripheral infrastructures such as access roads, pathways, and stormwater pipes support efficient and safe operations. These developments ensure the long-term sustainability of the facility and contribute to enhancing the mining site through responsible water management.
