In November of 1996, T-Systems introduced the T-TAPE® SEPARATE-ORE® series, a durable drip tape that would increase the efficiency and profitability of heap leach mining systems. T-Systems is the leader in drip irrigation in agriculture and has applied its expertise in product development and support to the mineral extraction industry.

T-TAPE SEPARATE-ORE is an integral emitter drip system that consists of a flat, flexible tube that can be easily installed on top of heaps unlike traditional spraying systems or hard hose drip systems. Since it lays out flat and straight without coiling, installation takes less time and money than other systems, which in turn makes mineral recovery easier and cheaper.

After only a few months of availability, T-TAPE SEPARATE-ORE was installed in mines in the United States, Chile, and Australia. Currently, T-TAPE SEPARATE-ORE is successfully being used in many copper and gold mines in the United States, Central America, South America, Australia, Africa, and China. In addition, an expanded worldwide sales and distribution network was added to support the T-TAPE SEPARATE-ORE product line.

This breakthrough in the mining industry promises to make heap leaching more practical for many previously uneconomical ore deposits. With T-TAPE SEPARATE-ORE, the gold boom of the late 20^th century has the potential to remain strong long into the 21^st century.