Neil Jensen General Manager, Robinson Mine KGHM
What are recent milestones and production guidance at Robinson Mine?
We commissioned 10 new haul trucks, two large shovels and several wheel loaders, enhancing operational efficiency. These improvements enabled us to meet our waste-stripping and mining targets, with production in 2024 exceeding expectations. We celebrated 20 years of continuous operation in 2024.
KGHM International copper production on a 9-month view is 89% higher in 2024 (45,400 t) compared to 2023 (24,100 t). This is largely due to higher copper production by Robinson Mine resulting from extraction from the main, copper-rich zone in the Ruth Pit. Actual production results at the end of Q3 2024 show that Robinson is on track to achieve production targets this year in excess of 118 million lb of copper. Spatial reconciliation of the development in Liberty Pit is on track to achieve 2024 targets and this supports future ore delivery in the life of mine plan. How does Robinson Mine address workforce development amid labor shortages?
Robinson Mine developed strong partnerships with universities and technical schools to build talent pipelines. We collaborate with Great Basin College in Elko and its Ely campus, offering dual-credit courses for high school students and re-training opportunities for current employees.
Operating in a rural area like White Pine County has allowed Robinson Mine to provide stable, high-paying jobs and significant economic contributions. As a cornerstone of the local economy, the mine has shown its long-standing commitment to community development. With the mine life extending to 2036, we are committed to sustaining our impact and fostering social and economic growth in rural Nevada. What innovations is KGHM implementing at Robinson Mine?
Robinson Mine has seen success with its autonomous drill fleet. These drills enhance blasting precision, optimize drilling times, and increase footage rates while reducing operating hours. We are exploring technologies for the mill circuit, such as automation and AI, to enhance efficiency and recoveries.
Lyndsay Potts General Manager – Pinto Valley Mine CAPSTONE COPPER
What were operational highlights from Pinto Valley for 2023 and H1 2024?
In 2023 Pinto Valley produced 55,100 t of copper and in 2024 we have guided for copper production of 58,000 to 64,000 t. Over the past two years, we have made significant strides to improve our maintenance practices to increase mill availabilities and plant runtime. We have also put a significant emphasis on our people, with changes to our shift schedules and more involvement in the community to attract young talent to mining. How does Capstone Copper plan to grow and consolidate in the Globe-Miami district?
Pinto Valley is an operating mine located in the historic Globe-Miami mining district of Arizona, which is one of the oldest and most productive mining districts in the US. We have a mine plan that extends through 2039, but we are currently evaluating the potential for possible extensions and expansions. We also have an exploration access agreement with BHP’s historic Copper Cities mine next door, where we are evaluating district consolidation opportunities. Can you comment on global copper supply dynamics and how Pinto Valley plans to benefit from the high price environment?
On the supply side copper is constrained. There have been very limited new discoveries of copper over the past 20-30 years. Existing mines are seeing significant grade decline, and new deposits face increasing complexities, such as environmental, social, and infrastructural challenges. This results in high barriers to entry for new copper mines, which will likely continue to push copper prices higher. What are Capstone’s goals for Pinto Valley for the next 24 months?
First, we’d like to continue improving the reliability and efficiency of our operations to increase our production and lower our costs. From there, we will continue to evaluate the potential for further mine life extensions or expansions, including a potential district consolidation.