The world's third largest platinum producer has shut down its biggest furnace after the discovery of a leak.

Lonmin shut down the furnace in Marikana, located in the north west of South Africa, but have not yet given any indication of the impact the closure will have on production.

When questioned by Reuters about the possible impact of the closure the company's vice president of investor relations Alex Shorland-Ball said it was "too early to say".

An examination of the furnace, one of four at the Marikana site, is temporarily on hold while it cools down. It will then be surveyed for any damage.

According to Reuters, the furnace smelts 20,000 tonnes per month, giving it twice the capacity of each of the three other smaller furnaces, which smelt 10,000 tonnes each a month.

All of Lonmin's mine output from South Africa is processed through the Marikana unit.

Lonmin has been the subject of much takeover speculation over recent months. Talks with an unnamed suitor broke down in February, however.

Polyus Gold, a subsidiary of Norlisk Nickel, is now thought to be interested in the company.

Ÿ Adfero Ltd