The preferred method for heap leaching is drip irrigation, but in certain condition and applications and when safety regulation permits, sprinklers are also used.
Heap leaching with sprinklers will work well in areas where the wind effect is minimal and when the desired flow rate is very high.
Sprinkler irrigation in mining applications is mainly used for heap leaching of cooper, gold, uranium and nickel. Sprinklers are ideal for slope irrigation, evaporation, dust control, reforestation and can also be installed to complete the leach cycle or provide a final rinse.