The Conversation (0)
Magnis Resources (ASX:MNS) reported developments at the Nachu Graphite Project in Tanzania: the application process for a mining permit has been started and is proceeding to the Environment and Social Impact Assessment stage; drilling program currently underway to support mine planning and project infrastructure; metallurgical testing has been conducted and resulted in further process improvement; and the commencement of the 2015 drilling program which aims to refine the Mine Plan and prepare the site.
As quoted in the press release:
Ministerial and Government Meetings
Presentations have been held with officials in the Tanzania Ministry. To date, all levels of the government have been very supportive of getting Nachu into operation. Earlier this month a meeting was held with the Deputy Minister for Energy and Minerals and the government indicated it is very supportive of the project and will work with Magnis to achieve all mining approvals.
Metallurgy
Recent metallurgical testing has centred on the generation of data for the specification of process and equipment. The graphite concentrate produced during this work was sent to end users for private evaluation. To date, results from end user evaluations have been consistent with the product grades and flake sizes used in the Pre-feasibility Study. In addition to the large flake size, exceptional flake thickness has been reported. The exceptional flake thickness will lead to a higher selling price. The metallurgical testing conducted has also resulted in further process improvement. The proportion of Super Jumbo (+500 microns) in the product is now exceeding 11% (previously 9%) at a grade of 98% TGC with overall graphite recoveries averaging over 96%. This highlights the exceptional metallurgy of the Nachu graphite ore as well as the higher revenues that possibly can be achieved.
Significantly decreased inputs of collector and depressant in flotation have been demonstrated. Diesel has been shown to be a viable alternative to kerosene as a collector.
2015 Drilling Programme
With the conclusion of the wet season, the 2015 drilling program began in the middle of May.
This program has a number of objectives including:
- Resource drilling to refine the Mine Plan in preparation for future operations;
- Site preparation drilling including geotechnical drilling for the Tailings Storage Facility and water storage dam; and
- Water bore hole drilling to confirm alternative source to river water for construction and/or operation phases.
Early observations have been very favourable. Potential underground water sites being tested lie within 5 kilometres of major infrastructure and most within 1.5 kilometres.
Click here to read the Magnis Resources (ASX:MNS) press release
Click here to see the Magnis Resources (ASX:MNS) profile.