Supporting Shaft Sinking: Mining industry project
Key Information
Location
UK
Sector
Mining
Project Overview
The Aqua Operations team we awarded a contract at a major polyhalite fertiliser mine development located in the UK within the North York Moors National Park. Due to environmental constraints, shaft head frames are sunk below ground level, creating complex operational and environmental management requirements.
During shaft sinking operations, large volumes of slurry water rich in silt and solids are produced. Effective separation and management of this slurry water is critical to ensure uninterrupted mining operations.
The Challenge
Accessing the polyhalite deposit generates significant slurry water during shaft sinking. Without effective silt removal:
- Slurry water cannot be safely managed
- Surface storage tanks risk becoming overloaded
- Shaft sinking operations must pause
- Surface staff face significant 24/7 monitoring demands
Continuous desilting was essential to keep operations moving but it required around-the-clock oversight and specialist equipment.
Initially planned as a one-month trial, the solution quickly became business-critical.
Walsh Waste & Recycling needed a solution that would not only resolve immediate compliance requirements but also provide the capacity and flexibility to take on new business opportunities in the future.
Our Approach
The Solution
Rapid Deployment of a 24/7 De-silter Operation
Aqua Operations Limited installed and commissioned a de-silter unit at the UK based mine to separate silt and solids from slurry water.
Scope of service included:
- Hire of a high-capacity de-silter unit
- Installation, pipework, and pumps
- Full commissioning
- 24/7 on-site monitoring and operation
- Treated water pumped to surface tanks or grit carts
Fast-Track Implementation
The project required an accelerated turnaround and was delivered over the Christmas holiday period 2025 a time when many contractors were demobilising.
Working closely with the clients surface staff, Aqua Operations:
- Installed and commissioned the de-silter system during the holiday shutdown
- Rapidly mobilised equipment and specialist personnel
- Ensured zero operational delays
The system became fully operational within days of confirmation.
Results and Impact
Immediate Operational Impact
- Successful removal of significant silt and solids
- Immediate pumping of treated water to surface tanks
- Continuous shaft sinking operations maintained
What initially began as a ‘short-term trial’ has now identified the value of a continued longer-term operational support. The partnership continues to evolve with further potential for extended resource, operations, and management services as the Project advances.
