Real-Time Moisture Control Transforms Copper Operations in Asia
At RTI, we believe that operational certainty starts with reliable, real-time insights. In this week’s In The Field With RTI we share how our team partnered with a copper operation in Asia to improve moisture management and process stability through the commissioning of our MoistScan technology.
The site had long faced challenges in managing moisture due to variable mineralisation across sulphide and oxide zones, combined with seasonal and environmental conditions. Operators relied on laboratory assays to track moisture content, but the delays in obtaining results often slowed decisions and led to inconsistent feed into grinding and flotation circuits. This created inefficiencies in recovery and increased the risk of non-compliance with smelting and transport requirements.
To resolve these issues, RTI’s commissioning team travelled to the operation and carried out a complete verification and calibration program. This included mechanical and electrical checks, calibration using laboratory data, and full system performance testing. During the process, a faulty ultrasonic depth sensor was identified and replaced on-site, restoring accuracy before handover. All checks were completed on schedule, ensuring the analyser was production-ready from day one.
With the system live, operators gained immediate benefits. Real-time moisture control in copper allowed them to make faster process adjustments, stabilise feed into grinding and flotation, reduce reagent and energy consumption, and minimise handling risks such as blockages and uneven conveyor loading. Compliance confidence also improved, with accurate data helping to keep shipments within specification.
“The real value was seen from day one,” said Harry Farrokhi, RTI Remote Support Technician. “By providing continuous online measurements, the site team could make informed adjustments immediately, instead of waiting for lab results. It’s a shift from reacting after the fact to proactively controlling the process.”
For the operations team, the commissioned analyser restored confidence in their ability to manage ore moisture proactively rather than reactively. The shift to continuous, accurate measurement has already shown clear improvements in efficiency, stability, and risk reduction.
The success at this copper operation in Asia demonstrates how operational and process improvements can be achieved through real-time analysis and expert commissioning. In The Field With RTI will continue to share how RTI partners with the mining industry to drive measurable gains and reduce risk across the value chain.