The Mothae mine, located in the picturesque Maluti Mountains of Lesotho, has earned a distinguished reputation for its production of large, high-value diamonds. In fact, these diamonds are highly sought after and command the second-highest dollar per carat for kimberlite diamonds on a global scale. This achievement can be attributed to TOMRA’s X-ray Transmission (XRT) sorting technology, as well as their cutting-edge digital solutions – the TOMRA Insight platform and TOMRA ACT user interface.
Lucapa Diamonds, a leading global diamond producer, holds a 70% stake in Mothae Diamonds, an open-pit mine situated in Lesotho’s diamond-rich Maluti Mountains. The mine commenced commercial mining operations in 2019 following the commissioning of its kimberlite processing plant. Notably, the Mothae mine has garnered attention for its significant recoveries of gem-quality diamonds, including a remarkable 215-carat D-colour Type IIa diamond, a 204-carat Type IIa diamond, and rare pink, blue, and yellow fancy-colored diamonds.
Facing the need to optimize diamond recovery, Mothae Diamonds turned to TOMRA Mining for a solution. Macobone Semelani, Recovery Superintendent at Mothae, affirmed that TOMRA’s advanced technology perfectly aligned with their requirements for efficient and high-throughput diamond recovery.
The Mothae recovery plant operates two TOMRA COM Tertiary XRT 1200 sorters, specifically designed to handle various sizes of diamond-bearing ore. These sorters effectively separate diamonds from the mined ore, significantly reducing the risk of breakages and ensuring exceptional sorting efficiency. By leveraging TOMRA’s technology, Mothae has experienced increased tonnage throughput, reduced operational costs, and a notable improvement in the recovery process.
In addition to the XRT sorters, TOMRA Insight plays a crucial role in Mothae’s diamond recovery process. This cloud-based data platform connects the machines, providing valuable data that enables operators to have precise control over the sorting process. Furthermore, the TOMRA ACT user interface streamlines workflow and enhances productivity, simplifying the interaction with the sorters.
Kothalo Matoli, a Recovery Mechanician at Mothae, lauds TOMRA’s technology for revolutionizing their production process, allowing remote monitoring of sorters and access to reports from a single interface. Real-time logging of alarms and events has significantly improved troubleshooting, ultimately leading to enhanced productivity and efficiency.
Macobone Semelani emphasizes the significant impact of TOMRA Insight, stating that it has surpassed their expectations by providing access to crucial data at any time, facilitating a thorough analysis of the sorters’ operation and maintenance. With TOMRA Insight, they have gained valuable insights into their operational and health status, empowering them to make better-informed decisions.
Furthermore, the unwavering support from TOMRA has been instrumental in Mothae’s success. Macobone Semelani commends the TOMRA team for their outstanding service, emphasizing their incredible support from the outset. Similarly, Kothalo Matoli praises the TOMRA team for their readiness to assist, whether it be remotely or on-site.
In conclusion, the partnership between TOMRA and Mothae Diamonds has brought about a revolutionary change in the diamond recovery process at the Mothae mine. With the innovative XRT technology, supported by TOMRA Insight, Mothae has achieved remarkable efficiency, cost-effectiveness, and exceptional diamond recovery. This collaboration underscores the immense potential of advanced sorting solutions and automated recovery plants, setting a new standard for the diamond mining industry.