Lauren Pavitt

Providing metallurgical and processing operations advice to optimize metallurgical performance and identify and effectively implement opportunities for process improvements. Undertook multiple stints as Acting Senior Metallurgist, completing end-of-month reconciliations, SRFs, and planning with other departments.

• Optimized metal recovery with thorough analysis and monitoring of plant operations.
• Conducted failure analysis to determine root causes and implemented corrective actions to prevent recurrence.
• Collaborated with cross-functional teams for process optimization, leading to increased productivity and reduced downtime.
• Reduced operational costs by identifying areas for improvement and recommending cost-effective solutions.
• Provided technical expertise in resolving complex metallurgical issues, resulting in enhanced plant performance.
• Evaluated new technologies and equipment for potential implementation, ensuring the continuous improvement of plant processes.
• Mentored junior metallurgists, fostering professional growth and knowledge sharing within the team.
• Worked closely with suppliers to secure high-quality raw materials at competitive prices, supporting overall cost reduction efforts.
• Enhanced plant efficiency by implementing advanced metallurgical processes and techniques.

Assisted Principal Process Engineers and Project Managers to develop process design deliverables including P&IDs, PFDs, Mass Balances, Process Design Criteria's and Process Design Basis's for the following projects:

ASM Dubbo Rare Earth Element Transition Phase Project - Owner's engineering team

Preparation of process deliverables in alignment with ANSTO pilot plant testing for FEED phase. These documents included PFDs, Process Description, Process Design Basis and Process Design Criteria.

Carmichael Detailed Design

Finalised the design of the P&IDs, mass balance and PFDs for IFC. Preparation of a LIMN simulation and checksheets in readiness for commissioning.

Newcrest Lihir Pre-feasibility Study

Investigated multiple value improvement initiatives including coarse gold recovery by hydrofloat technology, fine gold recovery by Jamieson cell, Flotation Tails Fines Leach (Pumpcell technology) and tertiary milling.

RCOE Rare Earth Pilot Plant Project

Concept design of pilot plant along with the University of Queensland. Prepared three options comparing different CAPEX options, flexibility and variability of processes for the pilot plant. Communication with vendors and preparation of PFDs, a 3D model and process report.

Peak Downs Mine Long Term Tailings Project

Development of P&IDs for the proposal of dry tailings through belt press filters. Assisted in preparing graphs for belt press filter capabilities.

Saraji Long Term Tailings Project

Development of P&IDs for the proposal of dry tailings through belt press filters.

Other notable achievements:

• Represented the Brisbane office for the implementation of 'Total IQ', an engineering information sharing platform across DRA's global offices.
• Established an interactive site on teams regarding LIMN simulations.
• Participated in organising social events for the office such as Melbourne Cup Day Events and monthly social process team gatherings.

• Implemented the use of a Heraeus temperature lance for the furnace. This included training operators, development of operational manuals and implementing measurements into digital records.
• Developed operational procedures for hardness testing.