Resource development company, Savannah Resources plc, has announced that it has commenced construction of the pilot plant for its bulk metallurgical test work programme at the Mutamba Project, Mozambique.
Savannah operates the Mutamba heavy mineral sands project in collaboration with Rio Tinto. The project has an estimated mineral resource amount of 4.4 billion t, 3.9% more than the Jangamo, Dongane and Ravene deposits. To help commit to returns to Rio Tinto, construction of a 20 t per hour pilot plant has commenced at the Mutamba Mineral Sands.
The plant will produce bulk samples of concentrate for metallurgical and product test work at a level that is guaranteed to supply the demand of Rio Tinto and over Savannah customers. Savannah has appointed Mozambique based AML, an experienced mineral sands engineering company, to undertake the work and manage construction until completion. Construction and commissioning is expected to be completed by the end of 2017.
Savannah’s CEO, David Archer said: “We are pleased that the pilot plant construction work is now well underway at Mutamba and that good progress is being made. Once commissioned and operational, the plant will provide concentrate bulk samples for analysis and the preparation of final products for test marketing. The completion of the plant will be a key milestone for the Mutamba Consortium as we move the Project towards a development decision.”