Kenmare Resources returns to full production at Moma Mine

28th Nov 2013 08:32

- Returns to full production at Moma- Fire destroyed parts known as 'trommels' - Power outages continue to have impact on productionKenmare Resources's wet concentrator plant A (WCP A) at the Moma Mine returned to full production capability following the successful completion of repairs to machinery. WCP A, which sustained damage in a fire, was able to restart production of heavy mineral concentrate (HMC) after one of the two parts known as 'trommels' was repaired. Although the WCP is fitted with two trommels, it can operate at full capacity with just one. "Having closely reviewed the operation of the trommel, we are satisfied that the repairs have been completed successfully," the group stated. It also revealed strong production levels from WCP A since re-commissioning have rebuilt the HMC stockpile to 60,000 tonnes.Repair works on the second trommel are well advanced and scheduled to be complete on November 30th, as previously guided. Kenmare also reported that maintenance works on WCP A and the dredges in mining pond A, which had been scheduled for 2014, were also accelerated and have now been completed. Power outages hit productionThe company has also continued to experience power outages at Moma, which it admitted has "an impact" on production. The group commented: "The Mozambican government is aware of the difficulties caused by the outages and is working proactively with Electricidade de Moçambique (EdM) to develop and implement solutions as a matter of priority. "Kenmare continues to work closely with EdM to rectify these issues and continues to take actions to minimise the impact on production during this important quarter as expansion ramp up proceeds."NR