Minera Escondida increases production in 22% for second quarter
18-Jul-2012 Pulso – News
Two main projects, OGP1. and OLPA, already show 13% and 18% progress respectively
Change in mining plan of Escondida, largest BHP Billiton operation in Chile, substantially improved its activity during second quarter.
During April-June period Escondida has increased production in 22% thus reaching 164,500 copper tons (concentrate and cathodes) versus 135,000 tons of previous quarter. This because areas with better mineral grade were exploited.
The BHP up-to-June report indicates average ore grade improved from 1.14% up to 1.37%
Improvement, as explained by sources from the company, is consistent with mining plan of the company that specifically considered mining of areas with better ore grade during the period.
Spence and Cerro Colorado, the other operations of the Group in Chile, were almost invariant.
Besides, Escondida operator provided details on their worldwide projects progress amongst which both Organic Growth Project 1 (OGP1) and Oxide Leach Area Project (OLAP) Escondida’s projects were highlighted. Works at both projects in Escondida started last February.
OGP1 with a US$3,500 million cost (US$2,207 million correspond to BHP) shows a 13% progress and it is expected to start up during the first semester of 2013. OLAP progress status reaches 8%. Once both projects are completed, total production of Escondida (2015) will exceed one million 300 thousand copper tons.
