TOMRA Mining Technology Drives Lithium Output

TOMRA Mining reports that its sensor-based sorting systems are contributing to higher production and lower costs at Pilbara Minerals’ Pilgangoora Operation in Western Australia. The equipment forms part of the world’s largest lithium ore sorting plant, commissioned in August 2024, with capacity exceeding 1,000 tonnes per hour. According to the company, the technology enables early waste rejection, improving lithium recovery, product quality, and energy efficiency.

Pilbara Minerals’ June Quarter FY25 results indicated a 77% rise in production volumes and a 10% drop in unit operating costs compared to the previous quarter, with TOMRA attributing part of these gains to its sorting technology. The plant includes 10 high-precision sorters handling different ore sizes to remove barren material upstream, which the company says also reduces downstream energy use by up to 15 GWh annually.

“The June Quarter marked the strongest performance of the year, clearly demonstrating the impact that TOMRA’s technology can deliver at scale. By unlocking value from lower-grade contact ore previously considered uneconomical, the operation now accesses more lithia units from the pit, enhancing resource utilization and mine flexibility.” said Gavin Rech, Area Sales and Technical Manager Australia at TOMRA Mining.

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