Structural Failure to Amospheric Leach Tank at Ravensthorpe Nickel Operation

First Quantum Minerals Ltd. (TSX:FM,LSE:FQM) reported a structural failure at the atmospheric leach tank at its Ravensthorpe nickel operation in Western Australia. The plant is now shut down, but company has not yet provided estimates on the length of the shutdown or its potential impact on the operation’s production.

As quoted in the press release:

The tank, situated after the autoclaves in the circuit, contained acid-leaching nickel in slurry. The spill, resulting from the failure, has been contained within the plant’s protective bunded area. All personnel have been accounted for and no injuries have been reported. The plant is currently shut down and, on the basis of information received to date, no adverse environmental effects are anticipated. Investigations to determine the cause are being undertaken.

Click here for First Quantum Minerals Ltd. (TSX:FM,LSE:FQM) press release