Optimizing gold mining: how Sandvik transformed rock processing at La Yaqui Grande
In 2019, Alamos Gold embarked on an ambitious project: to extract 700 tons of rock per hour to recover gold and silver in the Mulatos District of Sonora, Mexico. One of the biggest challenges was ensuring that the processed rock met the required final grain size of -3.8 inches.
To achieve this, Alamos Gold turned to Sandvik. By 2021, all necessary equipment had been delivered and installed at the La Yaqui Grande mine. Since then, the partnership between the two companies has continued to exceed expectations, demonstrating the power of collaboration and cutting-edge technology in mining operations.
The La Yaqui Grande project
Designed in 2019, the La Yaqui Grande mine is owned by Alamos Gold. Operations officially began in 2022, supported by eight pieces of crushing and screening equipment from Sandvik. Recognized as a low-cost, high-value project, La Yaqui Grande created over a thousand jobs during construction, and now provides employment for approximately 450 people. With a processing capacity of around 700 tons of ore per hour, Alamos Gold aims to produce nearly three tons of gold annually, maximizing the mine’s lifespan and sustainability.
In order to meet their ambitious goals, Alamos Gold opted for Sandvik equipment due to its reliability, efficiency, and contribution to minimizing environmental impact.
The role of rock processing
La Yaqui Grande operates as an open-pit mine, using a three-stage crushing circuit, featuring a selection of Sandvik equipment:
- Jaw Crusher CJ-615
- Secondary Cone Crusher CH-860i
- Two Tertiary Cone Crushers CH-865i
- Grizzly Feeder SG-1541
- 3 x Vibrating Screens SL3062
Efficient rock processing, enabled by a combination of reliable equipment, an optimized process, and solid collaboration, ensures downstream operations run smoothly with reduced interruptions, increased productivity, and improved overall energy efficiency.
Technical support from Sandvik
Beyond supplying crushing and screening equipment, Sandvik provided continuous technical support and employee training to Alamos Gold throughout the project’s lifecycle.
This hands-on approach proved to be a significant differentiator. Sandvik technicians made gradual equipment adjustments to ensure maximum efficiency while achieving the required particle size distribution. The supportive partnership played a pivotal role in helping the plant meet its daily production targets within the first months of operation.
Results: efficiency and sustainability in action
With Sandvik’s advanced equipment and ongoing support, La Yaqui Grande successfully achieved its production targets while maintaining high standards in rock processing.
A major advantage of Sandvik’s crushers is their epoxy-free design, eliminating the need for epoxy resin to fix the mantle and concave. This innovation enhances workplace safety, reduces CO2 emissions, and supports a more sustainable mining process. Additionally, a decrease in unplanned stoppages also had a positive impact on operational efficiency and team productivity.
“One of the advantages we have had with this equipment is the direct coupling of machine and motor, along with the E-Dump system for non-crushable protection. It has allowed us to crush 8 million tons to date without making major component changes,” said Javier Duron, Process Manager, Alamos Gold Inc.
Through a combination of innovative technology, robust equipment, and dedicated technical support, Alamos Gold have succeeded to optimize operations at La Yaqui Grande. The partnership has set a benchmark for efficiency and sustainability in gold mining, reinforcing La Yaqui Grande’s reputation as a model of success in the industry.