Premier African Minerals Limited provide an update on the plant status and the next steps to resume production at the Zulu Lithium and Tantalum project (“Zulu”).
Zulu Operations Update
Recent test work reports from Enprotec, along with independent analyses from the supplier of reagents used in the Spodumene flotation process, indicate that inconsistent grade and recovery are primarily due to improper reagent dosing in the flotation circuit and prolonged residence time in the Spodumene cleaning circuit. Adjusting the reagent dosing is expected to improve flotation selectivity, while reducing cleaning circuit residence time should minimize gangue mineral flotation.
The planned modifications involve adding fabricated inserts to the cleaning stages, reducing the volume of each cleaner to better match the residence times that yielded optimal Spodumene grade and recovery in testing. The insert design is complete, with fabrication set to begin shortly. The direct cost is estimated to be under US$50,000, with an expected fabrication time of about six weeks.
As previously noted, the Company has a contingency plan based on recommendations from a Chinese Engineering, Procurement, and Construction Management (“EPCM”) contractor, which suggests an alternative approach involving the installation of a complete spodumene flotation plant using widely adopted technology. Given the low cost and quick implementation of the proposed insert modifications, this option will be pursued immediately, while the EPCM contractor’s solution remains under consideration as a potential near-term strategy for increasing production at Zulu.
Additionally, the Company has engaged with other reagent suppliers to continually review and potentially recommend alternative reagent strategies. Several options for Zulu’s future remain under evaluation, and due diligence is ongoing with interested parties. Proceeding with Enprotec’s recommendations aligns with the Company’s strategy, regardless of the outcomes of these strategic initiatives.
Shareholders should be aware that the effectiveness of these measures will only be confirmed once the Zulu plant is fully commissioned and achieves commercial production, with the timing still uncertain.
George Roach, CEO commented“ With this progress on the plant, and the recently notified updated resource estimate, Premier and its shareholders should be looking at the immediate future with much more confidence. “
