Background

Sulphate of Potash (SOP) was identified by Geoscience Australia as a critical mineral for the country’s future; however, prior to 2021, Australia was entirely dependent upon imported product. Australia’s first sulphate of potash (SOP) project, located in the Goldfields region of Western Australia, reached practical completion in July 2021, and will produce 245kt per annum.

MAK Water was originally approached by the client’s engineering consultant to assist with equipment selection and pricing during the feasibility study phase. Once project finance was secured, the client engaged MAK Water directly to design, manufacture, install and commission the potable water treatment plant (PWTP) and sewage treatment plant (STP) to service the 350-room accommodation village.

Solution

Containerised Brackish Water Reverse Osmosis (BWRO) plant to produce up to 61 m3/day of either potable water or demineralised water, or a combination of both.

MAK Water Key Solutions

  • Single plant with 2 separate run modes for potable water and demineralised water, producing maximum capacity for both streams
  • High salt rejection RO membranes to meet demineralised water specification
  • Potable water remineralisation (Langelier Saturation Index correction)
  • Potable water tank recirculation and monitoring of free chlorine
  • Safety shower and eyewash station
  • Containerised (1 x 40’) solution for easy installation
  • Compliance with client specifications: container paint specification, documentation package
  • Transport to site, onsite plant commissioning and operator training

Results and benefits

  • Innovative Design. Economical single plant design with compact footprint and maximum capacity for both streams
  • Compliance. Achieves both potable water and demineralised water specification
  • Technical Support. Expert advice and consultation with EPCM contractor throughout the process to provide the best possible solution