Many of AZ World’s clients are mining companies with operations in Spanish speaking countries. Today we’re going to discuss 3 very important terms in the mining industry, “relaves”, “jales” and “colas”.
“Relaves”, “jales” and “colas” are terms commonly used in the mining industry to refer to different types of mining waste materials. These terms are often used interchangeably in some regions, but they can have slightly different meanings depending on the context and the specific industry regulations in a given country. Here’s a general explanation of each term:
Relaves (Tailings):
Tailings, known as “relaves” in Spanish, are finely ground rock and mineral waste materials that remain after valuable minerals have been extracted from ore during the mining process.Tailings are typically a mixture of water, ground-up rock, and chemical residues used in the mining process, such as flotation reagents and cyanide.
Tailings are usually stored in tailings storage facilities (TSFs) or tailings dams, where the solid particles settle out over time, and the water is often recycled or treated before release.
Jales (Waste Rock):
“Jales” is another term used in some Spanish-speaking regions to refer to waste rock. Waste rock is the non-mineralized material that is removed to access the ore body.
Waste rock is typically composed of rock and minerals that have little or no economic value, and it may be stored in waste rock dumps or used for various purposes, such as construction or landscaping.
Colas (Slimes or Sludges):
“Colas” can refer to slimes or sludges that are produced during the mineral processing or ore concentration process.
These materials are often composed of fine-grained particles and can contain residual chemicals and minerals.
Colas are sometimes disposed of in specialized containment facilities or may be processed further to recover any valuable materials.
In summary, while these terms may have specific meanings in some contexts, they are often used interchangeably to describe various mining waste materials in Spanish-speaking countries. The choice of which term to use may depend on regional preferences, local regulations, or specific industry practices.
It’s important to consider the context and the audience when using these terms to ensure clear communication. Additionally, local regulations and terminology can evolve, so it’s advisable to consult with experts or regulatory authorities in the specific mining region for precise definitions and guidance.
If you are lost in translation and need help to bridge the language divide around the world, please contact us at info@a-zworld.ca or visit us at www.a-zworld.ca.