The ramp-up of WCP B is progressing well, having been operating for more than a month, and production is in line with expectations.
Kenmare Resources says production is in line with expectations, as ramp-up of WCP B is progressing well after a month of operating.
“The temporary measures we implemented to mitigate project delays, caused by global COVID-19 restrictions, have been effective.
“We expect operations at Pilivili to be running on grid power before the end of the year, while the Heavy Mineral Concentrate pumping system is to begin commissioning in Q1 202,” Michael Carvill, Managing Director.
He further said it’s been encouraging to see that spot prices for ilmenite, our primary product, have increased strongly in quarter four, after a marginal softening in quarter three.
Carvill said higher production and lower unit costs, coupled with a robust commodity market, will help to support higher capital returns for shareholders from 2021.
Furthermore, with installation of the powerline completed in mid-November 2020 and the installation of the electrical substations anticipated to be completed shortly, operations at Pilivili are expected to be grid powered from mid-December 2020.
Kenmare is on track to begin the commissioning and ramp-up of the HMC pumping system during Q1 2021.
The pumps have been installed on the infrastructure terrace and the final parts of the pipeline are expected to be delivered to site in late January 2021.