Mining News: Northern Neighbors: Red Chris trucks first copper

Imperial Metals Corp. March 2 reported that the first shipments of copper concentrate have been trucked from its Red Chris Mine to the Port of Stewart in northwestern British Columbia. Commissioning of the flotation circuit with low-grade ore from the Northwest B.C. mine began Feb. 15. During the second week of start-up, the mill feed grade was increased using ores from both the East and Main zones. On Feb. 22, the plant milled roughly 15,550 metric tons of ore over the first uninterrupted 12-hour operating shift. The mill processed a little more than 193,000 metric tons in February, producing about 2,400 metric tons of copper concentrate. Imperial says the commissioning team continues to focus on achieving continuous operations and a consistent final concentrate grade. Once the team is satisfied with the progress in these areas, more emphasis will be placed on metal recoveries and throughput.

- Shane Lasley