Trigon Metals says it is on track for the launch of its first underground mining phase at Kombat Mine early next year with the acquisition of new underground equipment en route.
This comes as the dewatering of the underground mine, initiated in September 2023, is progressing well.
The company says within the first month of pumping, water levels dropped by 157 metres, and full shaft dewatering is expected by the year-end, paving the way for mining activities starting in the first half of 2024.
Jed Richardson, President and CEO of Trigon, emphasised the strategic importance of the ongoing work.
He highlighted the expansion of the mill’s throughput and the imminent initiation of underground mining, a move expected to triple, “the production profile while simultaneously reducing production costs and enhancing profitability”.
This comes as the mining fleet dedicated to underground operations is slated to start arriving in December 2023, allowing ample time for the preparation of stopes and the training of staff ahead of the planned start-up.
“Now that open pit mining has achieved commercial production, processing 1,000 tonnes per day of ore and shipping 250 tonnes of concentrate a week. It is important to understand work is well underway to expand the mill’s throughput and commence mining from the underground, leading to a tripling of production profile while lowering production costs and amplifying profitability,” said the CEO.
Meanwhile, in July and August 2023, the company installed two powerful 2.5MW submersible pumps in the main shaft at Asis West. Additionally, 7.2MW of emergency backup generators were put in place to guarantee uninterrupted power supply, a critical factor for efficient mining activities.
Richardson noted that the water extracted from the mine is potable and is directed into an open canal that feeds reservoirs near Windhoek.
Trigon undertook an extensive hydrogeology study to comprehend the water dynamics associated with the mine, demonstrating a commitment to environmental responsibility.
Kombat Copper Mine in Namibia produced 901 concentrate tonnes in the month of October at a grade of 29.2% copper and 241 g/t silver.
“In a month that saw the plant reach commercial production and our first concentrate sales, concentrate production topped expectations. We are on track to record an operating profit on October’s production and are very pleased with the efforts of the team and the performance of the mine and mill,” Richardson said.
