Cornish Metals Inc (AIM:CUSN, TSX-V:CUSN, OTC:SBWFF) announced the successful activation of two submersible pumps installed recently in the New Cook’s Kitchen shaft at South Crofty mine, in Cornwall.
The associated Variable Speed Drives have also been implemented, and mine water is now being pumped from beneath the 195-fathom level to the Mine Water Treatment Plant (MWTP).
Following this, the water has been circulated around the plant and returned back to the underground via a specially designed commissioning loop.
Once the MWTP is fully functional and commissioned later this summer, the fully treated mine water will be directed towards the Red River, and the mine’s dewatering process will begin.
Background
· South Crofty is a historic, high-grade, underground tin mine that started production in the sixteenth century, and continued operating until its closure in 1998;
· The Project possesses Planning Permission for underground mining, valid to 2071, Planning Permission to construct a mine water treatment plant, new processing facilities, all necessary site infrastructure, and an Environmental Permit to dewater the mine;
· South Crofty has the 4th highest grade tin Mineral Resource globally and benefits from the presence of multiple shafts that can be used for future operations;
· Tin is a Critical Mineral as defined by the UK, USA, and Canadian governments, with approximately 75% of the tin mined today coming from China, Myanmar and Indonesia;
· There is no primary tin production in Europe or North America;
· Responsible sourcing of critical minerals and security of supply are key factors in the energy transition and technology growth;
· South Crofty benefits from strong local community and regional and national government support. The Project could generate 250 – 300 direct jobs.
“This marks a substantial milestone for South Crofty,” said Richard Williams, the Chief Executive. “Witnessing the first extraction of water from the mine since its closure 25 years ago, during this commissioning phase, is genuinely a historical occasion.”
