Space efficient Sodium Cyanide chemical tank for a gold mine...
In the demanding environment of gold extraction, reliability and safety are paramount — especially when working with highly toxic chemicals like sodium cyanide. That’s exactly what we delivered for our client at a gold operation near Meekatharra, who required a durable and space-efficient tank to store sodium cyanide solution.
The client initially reached out looking to replace an aging steel tank used for cyanide storage. Their key requirement was for a new poly tank that could match the footprint of their existing tank while offering a 24,000L capacity. While we couldn’t replicate the steel tank’s exact footprint, our team proposed a smart alternative — modifying our compact 14,000L tank design by increasing its height. This allowed us to maintain the desired volume while fitting within the spatial constraints of the site.
Two custom 14,000L tanks were fabricated and then further modified by our in-house team so they could be safely and securely stacked. This solution not only delivered the required capacity, it significantly reduced the tank’s overall footprint — a key consideration for the client’s existing site layout. But with sodium cyanide in the mix, this wasn’t just a matter of saving space — the tank needed to meet the highest safety and chemical storage standards. To achieve this, we used our high-density polyethylene (HDPE) material, chosen for its superior chemical resistance and strength.
Every detail was engineered for performance. The tanks were manufactured in accordance with AS/NZS 4766, while also aligning with the ASTM D1998 Type 2 classification for non-crosslinked polyethylene — a global benchmark for chemical tank design. Each tank underwent hydrostatic testing with an 8-hour hold, with certification supplied upon completion.
Sodium cyanide is increasingly used in gold mining to extract precious metals through both milling of high-grade ore and heap leaching of low-grade material. When storing such hazardous substances, the design and build of the tank becomes critical to maintaining safety and operational integrity. That’s why we approach each chemical tank project with a solution-first mindset — combining smart design with field-tested materials, compliance to strict standards, and the flexibility to adapt to unique site conditions.
This project is a great example of how our team works with mining and industrial clients across WA to solve complex storage challenges with tailored, engineered solutions. If your operation is looking for the same level of support and technical capability, we’re ready to help.
