Irkaz Metal Corporation, a subsidiary of Iranian Kavand Nahan Zamin, is set to launch the third phase of its mining operations at Kazakhstan's Borly field, located in the Aktogay district of the Karaganda region. This project aims to enhance the production capacity by an additional 5,000 tons of cathode copper annually.
The company outlined a comprehensive plan to process approximately 2.5 mn cubic meters of copper ore, equivalent to 4.575 mn tons, using the heap leaching method. This process is expected to yield an extra 5,000 tons of cathode copper each year. To achieve this, Irkaz Metal Corporation will require about 137,250 tons of sulfuric acid.
To accommodate the ore processing, the mining operation will include the storage of ore in a designated pile. Furthermore, two artificial ponds will be constructed to hold productive solutions, with capacities of 38,400 and 23,700 cubic meters, respectively. Spanning approximately 100 hectares, the new production site is strategically located 60 kilometres from Balkhash, ensuring logistical efficiency.
The site is designed for year-round operation, with work organized in two 12-hour shifts to maximize productivity. To support the workforce, a camp along with essential facilities will be established within the premises. Construction is scheduled to commence in July 2024, with completion targeted for June 2025, marking a significant milestone in the project timeline.
The mining complex, which became operational in November 2022 with an investment of $20 mn, currently has a production capacity of 5,000 tons of cathode copper per year. The third phase of the project is not only expected to double this capacity but also contribute significantly to the local economy. The Borly field itself boasts mineral reserves estimated at 115 mn tons of ore, containing an average copper content of 0.35%.
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