With its Abra Mine setting several daily production records this week during production ramp-up, Galena Mining Ltd (ASX:G1A) has swiftly made up for lost time after a significant rainfall event caused a stoppage.
The mine and plant have operated continuously at increasing production levels since resuming on May 3 and are now exceeding expected daily targets for steady-state production.
Fast pace of production
On May 15 alone, the underground mine delivered 4,030 tonnes, or 1.47-million tonnes per annum equivalent to the ROM pad, the crusher achieved a daily throughput of 4,137 tonnes (1.51 million tonnes per annum equivalent) and the mill processed 3,674 tonnes (1.34 million tonnes per annum equivalent) – all on the same day.
While these levels are only short-term measurements at this stage, they compare favourably to previously stated annual production targets based on 1.30 million tonnes per annum.
The mine remains on track to achieve its May production plan and the next concentrate shipment of around 5,000 tonnes is scheduled for May 25-28, with more than 3,000 tonnes of concentrate stocks produced month to date.
Managing director Tony James said: “It’s pleasing to see Abra respond after the stoppage.
“These daily production rates show that the mine has the instantaneous capacity to deliver on its production targets.
“The next step is to deliver these levels of performance on a consistent basis as we continue to transition to steady-state as quickly as possible.”
About Abra Base Metals Mine
The Abra Base Metals mine, which is 60% owned by Galena, is a globally significant lead-silver project in the Gascoyne region of Western Australia, between the towns of Newman and Meekatharra, some 110 kilometres from Sandfire’s DeGrussa Project.
In 2019, Galena produced a robust definitive/bankable feasibility study for development of an underground mine and processing facility to produce a high-value, high-grade lead-silver concentrate.
A final investment decision to complete the project was made in June 2021 and construction was completed in December 2022, with the first concentrate produced in the first quarter of 2023.
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