Palabora Reports Q3 Drop in Copper Concentrate Production

15 October 2009 (Last Updated October 15th, 2009 18:30)

Palabora Mining has registered a 19% decline in copper concentrate production in the third quarter compared to the second quarter due to scarcity of low grade concentrate from pond inventory. The copper concentrate output, however, was 10% more than in the third quarter of 2008, accordi

Palabora Mining has registered a 19% decline in copper concentrate production in the third quarter compared to the second quarter due to scarcity of low grade concentrate from pond inventory.

The copper concentrate output, however, was 10% more than in the third quarter of 2008, according to Reuters.

Output per day from the underground mine was 32,374t for Q3 ended on 30 September, slightly less than Q2 output.

Magnetite output for Q3 increased 23% compared to Q2 as the magnetite reclaiming process cycle time was improved.

Palabora said it is likely to sustain magnetite production at Q3 levels for the remaining part of the year.

The company's vermiculite production increased 4% quarter-on-quarter.