Braemore Resources is ramping up plans to refine the pgm alloy produced at its ConRoast plant in South Africa as it looks to tackle tough market conditions, it was revealed yesterday (31st March).

The company currently implements technology from minerals research group Mintek which allows its smelters to deal with high levels of chrome in pgm concentrate, while also reducing sulphur pollution.

Despite its new 3.2 megawatt smelter at an urban Mintek site suffering a recent explosion, Braemore has suggested that the damage was "minimal" and will now accelerate work to refine its pgm-rich alloy from the ConRoast facility.

Chairman Mathews Phosa said in a statement: "The refined product from the hydrometallurgical refining of the PGM alloy offers significant increases in operating margins.

"Braemore has achieved a critical milestone by concluding the required hydrometallurgical process flowsheet from its research programmes and has committed to the accelerated construction of the refining facility."

CEO Leon Coetzer also explained that the development could mean that junior miners are able to offer a conclusive and high-quality pgm product to rival that of major companies, Miningmx reports.

In addition, the company will build a new demonstration refining plant - having received its permits in the next six weeks - which will be ready for production within nine months.

The modular 5MW facility would be able to handle 3,000 to 3,500 tonnes of concentrate per month, enabling it to produce between 85,000 and 100,000 oz pgm per year, depending on the grade of the concentrate.

Source:

Braemore accelerates PGM alloy refining plan (31/03/09)
http://www.miningmx.com/platinum/980008.htm