Mirabela Santa Rita commissioned and on track to meet 4.6Mtpa production Q2
2010
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The operations team is now progressing the ramp up and optimisation of both the plant and the mining operations. The operation is on track to reach its interim target of 4.6 million tonnes of ore per annum, on an annualised basis, during the second quarter of 2010.
Since mining commenced, a total of 478,000 tonnes of ore and 13,023,000 tonnes of waste have been mined. At the end of November, the ROM stockpile stood at 204,000 tonnes at an average grade of 0.55% Ni. A further 20,000 tonnes of low grade ore was available on the stockpile.
Ore was first passed through the plant at the start of commissioning on
During commissioning, the mills achieved their nameplate hourly throughput after only one week. The excellent performance of the mills was reflected in availability averaging over 75% for the month of November. Since completion of commissioning, mill availability has run at 85%.
The flotation circuit, while still being optimised, is operating well. Nickel recovery improved steadily through the month and has averaged 49% since mid November, ahead of ramp-up expectations. Since mid-November, the average concentrate grades have been 13.4% Ni, 4.7% Cu, 0.22% Co and 10.2% MgO, and the moisture content was averaging 12% by month end.
During November, a total of 3,800 tonnes of concentrate was produced in the circuit, containing 470 nickel tonnes, 188 copper tonnes and 20 tonnes of cobalt. Of this, 3,400 tonnes of concentrate was filtered and processed to the shed, of which 900 tonnes was dispatched to Votorantim.
Work on an underground feasibility study and drilling program is expected to recommence during the first half 2010. Mirabela is not currently advancing any plans in relation to building a smelter.
For and on behalf of the Board Ian Purdy Chief Executive Officer
Background
Mirabela Nickel Ltd owns 100% of the world class
The
For further information: Australia contact: David Griffiths, Director, Gryphon Management Australia, Telephone: +61 8 9 382 8300, [email protected]; North America, UK and Europe contact: Alex Buck, Buckbias, Telephone: +44 7932 740 452, [email protected]
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