Tailings Storage Slurry Settling Calculator
Geotechnical & environmental mining: Calculate settled dry density, annual rate of rise (ROR), impoundment volumetric capacity, void ratio, and decant water balance.
Mill Slurry & Deposition Input
Facility Capacity & Geotechnical ROR
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Tested hardware and components for high reliability
Frequently Asked Questions
Why is the Rate of Rise (ROR) critical for tailings dam safety?
The Rate of Rise (meters of vertical elevation gained per year) governs whether fine tailings can consolidate and dissipate pore water pressures before new load is placed on top. In upstream-constructed tailings dams (ICMM guidelines), ROR exceeding 4 to 5 m/year frequently leads to high pore pressures, undrained shearing, and static liquefaction dam breaches.
What is the difference between conventional and thickened tailings storage?
Conventional tailings slurry contains 30% to 50% solids by weight and segregates into a soft slime pond with a high volume of free water. Thickened and paste tailings (55% to 70% solids) form non-segregating sloped deposits that drain and desiccate faster, dramatically reducing pond water footprint and dam breach flowout hazard.
How does in-situ dry density affect tailings impoundment life?
The dry bulk density (typically 1.2 to 1.6 t/m³) dictates the actual cubic meters required per tonne of mined ore. Higher dry compaction through under-drainage and evaporative drying increases storage capacity and prolongs the operational lifespan of the tailings facility without requiring costly embankment raises.