DELIVERING A 60KL/DAY SEWAGE TREATMENT PLANT FOR TROLLOPE MINING AT HIGHBURY LITHIUM MINE

As mining projects continue to expand into remote and environmentally sensitive areas, reliable sewage treatment infrastructure plays a critical role in supporting site operations and compliance.

Clearedge Projects recently completed the design, supply, installation, and commissioning of a 60kL/day package sewage treatment plant for Trollope Mining at the Highbury Lithium Mine on the KwaZulu-Natal South Coast.

The system services the site’s staff ablutions and office facilities and was designed with a strong focus on operational simplicity, reliability, and low maintenance requirements.

System Overview

The treatment plant consists of:

• 4 septic tanks

• 1 balancing tank

• 4 x 15kL SAFF bioreactors

• Clarifier

• Contact tank

The treated effluent is reused on site for:

• toilet flushing,

• dust suppression,

• construction activities.

This significantly reduces potable water demand while supporting sustainable site operations.

Designed for Practical Operation

A major focus of the project was ensuring dependable long-term performance under real operating conditions.

Clearedge Projects specialises in low-maintenance sewage treatment systems designed for demanding environments where operator input may be limited. The plant was therefore designed using robust, practical treatment processes that simplify operation and maintenance while still achieving reliable treatment performance.

Maintenance Remains Critical

Prior to placing the order, Trollope Mining requested references from previous Clearedge Projects clients.

While the feedback regarding system performance was consistently positive, several clients highlighted the importance of proper ongoing maintenance to ensure optimal operation over the long term. Based on this feedback, Trollope Mining elected to implement a maintenance contract with Clearedge Projects from the outset.

The plant has performed extremely well, and the proactive maintenance approach has helped ensure stable and reliable operation since commissioning.

Building Long-Term Relationships

Successful project delivery and ongoing plant performance have since led to additional work being awarded to Clearedge Projects at the site, including:

• a 10kL/day water treatment system,

• and a 100kL rainwater harvesting system.

This ongoing relationship reflects the importance of reliable infrastructure partners in demanding mining and construction environments.