Water treatment for the mining industry

Mining operations often generate large volumes of water with varying characteristics. High levels of suspended solids and heavy metals are common, but depending on the nature of the operation, other contaminants may also be present. A well‑designed and reliable water treatment system is essential to meet regulatory requirements and to reduce impacts on the surrounding environment.

With the right solution, the water can be treated and reused in the process, reducing the need for fresh water and contributing to more sustainable resource management. Swedish Hydro Solutions works with proven treatment technologies and biodegradable flocculants that create a cleaner process while also improving working conditions compared to many traditional chemicals.

Technology tailored for mining environments

The mining industry has varying needs depending on the site, the process, and the water volumes involved. Swedish Hydro Solutions’ systems operate effectively in both underground and open‑pit environments and can be adapted to different flows and spatial constraints.

A key part of our approach is enabling water reuse after treatment. This reduces pressure on external water sources and supports more resource‑efficient operations over time.

The solution for your market

Swedish Hydro Solutions’ water treatment solutions center around biodegradable and environmentally friendly technologies, with a strong focus on maximizing safety for on‑site personnel. For example, chitosan is often used as a flocculant. Derived from shellfish industry by‑products, chitosan has proven to be highly effective. Its water solubility eliminates the need for fresh water in the treatment process, while the user‑friendly dosing technology increases overall efficiency. Notably, chitosan is not only environmentally safe but also enhances safety for personnel compared to many traditional treatment chemicals.

HydroBox

HydroBox doses chitosan for effective flocculation and precipitation, enabling stable treatment of turbid water and particle‑bound contaminants on site.

Sludge treatment

Suspended solids form sludge that must be handled safely and efficiently — explore the sludge‑management technologies we use in our treatment systems.

Sedimentation

Sedimentation lets suspended particles settle and separate from the water. We use both sedimentation containers and lamella clarifiers for efficient removal.

pH Adjustment

The automated pH adjustment system creates optimal conditions for flocculation and precipitation, using CO₂ to safely reach the required pH level.

BioMedia® filters

Gravity filters with BioMedia® effectively remove heavy metals and reduce a wide range of organic contaminants, from oil‑based to chlorinated.

Physical filtration

In certain applications, we use pressurized filters filled with sand or glass media. Their main advantage is that they can be cleaned and reused through backwashing.

From start to finish

Here’s how it works when you order a solution:

  • Step 1: Initiate contact and share details about the project and the specific water treatment requirements.
  • Step 2: The project documentation, investigations, and specified conditions are reviewed. If water samples are available, treatment tests are performed in the laboratory.
  • Step 3: A treatment system is proposed, properly sized for the project and designed to meet the required discharge limits.
  • Step 4: The Swedish Hydro Solutions team installs the equipment. During the installation phase, the client receives training on how to operate the system. Regular site visits are carried out to calibrate instruments and supply the necessary treatment chemicals.
  • Step 5: Swedish Hydro Solutions’ involvement extends throughout the entire project lifecycle, including planning, commissioning, ongoing support, and eventual demobilization.

Need more information?

Want to learn more about water treatment tailored for the mining industry?
Contact us and we’ll help you find the right solution for your needs.

Contact us

Projects