Golden Cross
5 years ago
Orbite Provides Corporate Update
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18 oct. 2019 17h01 HE | Source : Orbite Technologies Inc.
communiqué multilingue
LAVAL, Québec, Oct. 18, 2019 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Orbite Technologies Inc. (NEX: ORT.H) (“Orbite” or the “Company”) today provided an update on its plan to emerge from CCAA protection.
Definitions of the capitalized terms used herein can be found at the end of this press release.
Sale and Investment Solicitation Process (SISP)
As announced on October 7, 2019, the Monitor, in concert with Orbite, continues its discussions with certain bidders in the SISP process. The CCAA Court had extended the Stay Period until October 29, 2019.
The Company will provide further updates as developments occur.
Resignation of Directors and Officers of the Company
As a result of the Company’s insurers not granting an extension to the Directors and Officers Insurance Policy, all Directors and Officers of the Company have resigned, effective today. This includes all Board members as well as the Chief Executive Officer, the Chief Financial Officer, and the Chief Operating Officer. The aforementioned members of management will remain, for the time being, employees of Orbite but will report to the Monitor and will be called upon as needed to move the Company through the SISP process.
Definitions
CCAA: Companies’ Creditors Arrangement Act.
CCAA Court: Quebec Superior Court.
Monitor: PricewaterhouseCoopers Inc.
Stay Period: Period of time during which there is a stay of all proceedings against the Company.
There can be no guarantees that the Company will otherwise be successful in its restructuring efforts and will emerge from CCAA protection.
About Orbite
Orbite Technologies Inc. is a Canadian cleantech company whose innovative and proprietary processes are expected to produce alumina and other high-value products, such as rare earth and rare metal oxides, at one of the lowest costs in the industry, and in a sustainable fashion, using feedstocks that include aluminous clay, kaolin, nepheline, bauxite, red mud, fly ash as well as serpentine residues from chrysotile processing sites. Orbite is currently in the process of finalizing its first commercial high-purity alumina (HPA) production plant in Cap-Chat, Québec The Company's portfolio contains 15 intellectual property families, including 41 patents and 17 pending patent applications in 11 different countries and regions. The Company also operates a state of the art technology development center in Laval, Québec, where its technologies are developed and validated.
Forward-looking statements
Certain information contained in this document may include "forward-looking information". Without limiting the foregoing, the information and any forward-looking information include statements regarding projects, costs, objectives and future returns of the Company or hypotheses underlying these items. In this document, words such as "may",” confident”, "would", "could", "will", "likely", "believe", "expect", "anticipate", "intend", "plan", "estimate" and similar words and the negative form thereof are used to identify forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements should not be read as guarantees of future performance or results, and will not necessarily be accurate indications of whether, or the times at or by which, such future performance will be achieved. Forward-looking statements and information are based on information available at the time and/or the Company management's good-faith beliefs with respect to future events and are subject to known or unknown risks, uncertainties, assumptions and other unpredictable factors, many of which are beyond the Company's control. Risks, uncertainties and other factors that could affect anticipated results and future events also include, but are not limited to, those described in the section of the Management's Discussion and Analysis (MD&A) entitled "Risk and Uncertainties" as filed on November 28, 2017 on SEDAR, including those under the headings “Going Concerns”, Commercial Operation of HPA Plant”, “We will need to raise capital to continue our growth” and “Development Goals and Time Frames” described in the MD&A filed on March 31, 2017.
The Company does not intend, nor does it undertake, any obligation to update or revise any forward-looking information or statements contained in this document to reflect subsequent information, events or circumstances or otherwise, except as required by applicable laws.
CONTACT INFORMATION:
FOR MORE INFORMATION, PLEASE CONTACT:
Orbite Technologies Inc.
Jacques Bedard
Tel.: 450 680-3341
Email: info@orbitetech.com
GOLD DIGGAA
8 years ago
More News: PRODUCTION ACTIVITIES CONTINUE AS PLANNED
http://www.orbitetech.com/English/investors/news/news-details/2016/Orbite-HPA-Plant-Update-1032016/default.aspx
October 03, 2016
Orbite HPA Plant Update
Production sequence progressing as planned
MONTREAL, QUEBEC--(Marketwired - Oct. 3, 2016) - Orbite Technologies Inc. (TSX:ORT)(OTCQX:EORBF) ("Orbite", or the "Company") today announced that, further to its press release of September 30, 2016, production activities continue as planned at its high purity alumina ("HPA") plant.
-- The first batch of feedstock digestion commenced on September 30 and was
followed by a second batch, as planned.
-- The first batches of liquor, produced in the digestion circuit, were
transferred to the crystallisation circuit for commencement of
production of the first batch of aluminum chloride hexahydrate ("ACH")
crystals. ACH crystals are the precursor to high purity alumina ("HPA").
-- As disclosed, each full digestion and crystallisation batch cycle will
initially take approximately 3.5 days to complete. Production will
continue in batch mode in these two circuits while extensive testing
will be carried out on digester liquors and ACH crystals, to ensure
production and purity criteria are met.
-- Once the ACH crystals meet purity criteria, they will be transferred to
the decomposer and calciner circuit for HPA production. Once production
and purity criteria are met in all three circuits, the plant will switch
over to semi-continuous operation mode and commence ramp up to name
plate capacity.
"First results for digestion are positive and crystallisation is also progressing well," stated Glenn Kelly, CEO of Orbite. "We will continue batch production in both these circuits and anticipate production times to come down as we increase purity and quality. We will report on progression as we build up data from the various tests on our batch cycles."
About Orbite
Orbite Technologies Inc. is a Canadian cleantech company whose innovative and proprietary processes are expected to produce alumina and other high-value products, such as rare earth and rare metal oxides, at one of the lowest costs in the industry, and in a sustainable fashion, using feedstocks that include aluminous clay, kaolin, nepheline, bauxite, red mud, fly ash as well as serpentine residues from chrysotile processing sites. Orbite is currently in the process of finalizing its first commercial high-purity alumina (HPA) production plant in Cap-Chat, Quebec and has completed the basic engineering for a proposed smelter-grade alumina (SGA) production plant, which would use clay mined from its Grande-Vallee deposit. The Company's portfolio contains 16 intellectual property families, including 37 patents and 91 pending patent applications in 11 different countries and regions. The first intellectual property family is patented in Canada, USA, Australia, China, Japan and Russia. The Company also operates a state of the art technology development center in Laval, Quebec, where its technologies are developed and validated.
Forward-looking statements
Certain information contained in this document may include "forward-looking information". Without limiting the foregoing, the information and any forward-looking information may include statements regarding projects, costs, objectives and future returns of the Company or hypotheses underlying these items. In this document, words such as "may", "would", "could", "will", "likely", "believe", "expect", "anticipate", "intend", "plan", "estimate" and similar words and the negative form thereof are used to identify forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements should not be read as guarantees of future performance or results, and will not necessarily be accurate indications of whether, or the times at or by which, such future performance will be achieved. Forward-looking statements and information are based on information available at the time and/or the Company management's good-faith beliefs with respect to future events and are subject to known or unknown risks, uncertainties, assumptions and other unpredictable factors, many of which are beyond the Company's control. These risks uncertainties and assumptions include, but are not limited to, those described in the section of the Management's Discussion and Analysis (MD&A) entitled "Risk and Uncertainties" as filed on March 30, 2016 on SEDAR, including those under the headings "Recent increase in budgeted capital costs will require additional financing and may adversely impact our prospects", "We will need to raise capital to continue our growth" and "Development Goals and Time Frames".
The Company does not intend, nor does it undertake, any obligation to update or revise any forward-looking information or statements contained in this document to reflect subsequent information, events or circumstances or otherwise, except as required by applicable laws.
FOR FURTHER INFORMATION PLEASE CONTACT:
NATIONAL Equicom
Marc Lakmaaker, External Investor Relations Consultant
416-848-1397
mlakmaaker@national.ca
For Media Inquiries:
NATIONAL Equicom
Scott Anderson, External Media Relations Consultant
416-586-1954
sanderson@national.ca
Source: Orbite Technologies Inc.
GOLD DIGGAA
8 years ago
NEWS!
PRODUCTION HAS COMMENCED
September 30, 2016
Orbite HPA Plant Update
Production sequence has commenced
MONTREAL, QUEBEC--(Marketwired - Sept. 30, 2016) - Orbite Technologies Inc. (TSX:ORT)(OTCQX:EORBF) ("Orbite", or the "Company") today announced that, further to its press release of September 21, 2016, production activities have commenced at its high purity alumina ("HPA") plant.
-- Commissioning and start-up of the digestion circuit was completed, as
planned. The first batch of feedstock digestion commenced this afternoon
and will be followed by another batch early tomorrow.
-- Commissioning and start-up of the crystallisation circuit is well
advanced and the first batches of liquor, produced in the digestion
circuit, will be transferred to the crystallisation circuit over the
weekend for first production of aluminum chloride hexahydrate ("ACH").
crystals. ACH crystals are the precursor to high purity alumina ("HPA").
-- Production will continue in batch mode in these two circuits as
extensive testing will be carried out on the digester liquors and ACH
crystals, to ensure production and purity criteria are met. Each full
digestion and crystallisation batch cycle will initially take
approximately 3.5 days to complete.
-- Once the ACH crystals meet the purity criteria, they will be transferred
to the decomposer and calciner circuit for HPA production.
-- Once production and purity criteria are met in all three circuits, the
plant will switch over to semi-continuous operation mode and commence
ramp up to name plate capacity.
"We are very pleased to have now commenced the production sequence at our HPA plant," stated Glenn Kelly, CEO of Orbite. "We are entering a very exciting phase in our evolution as a company, and we would like to thank our employees and contractors for their sustained and concentrated efforts over the last months."
About Orbite
Orbite Technologies Inc. is a Canadian cleantech company whose innovative and proprietary processes are expected to produce alumina and other high-value products, such as rare earth and rare metal oxides, at one of the lowest costs in the industry, and in a sustainable fashion, using feedstocks that include aluminous clay, kaolin, nepheline, bauxite, red mud, fly ash as well as serpentine residues from chrysotile processing sites. Orbite is currently in the process of finalizing its first commercial high-purity alumina (HPA) production plant in Cap-Chat, Quebec and has completed the basic engineering for a proposed smelter-grade alumina (SGA) production plant, which would use clay mined from its Grande-Vallee deposit. The Company's portfolio contains 16 intellectual property families, including 37 patents and 91 pending patent applications in 11 different countries and regions. The first intellectual property family is patented in Canada, USA, Australia, China, Japan and Russia. The Company also operates a state of the art technology development center in Laval, Quebec, where its technologies are developed and validated.
Forward-looking statements
Certain information contained in this document may include "forward-looking information". Without limiting the foregoing, the information and any forward-looking information may include statements regarding projects, costs, objectives and future returns of the Company or hypotheses underlying these items. In this document, words such as "may", "would", "could", "will", "likely", "believe", "expect", "anticipate", "intend", "plan", "estimate" and similar words and the negative form thereof are used to identify forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements should not be read as guarantees of future performance or results, and will not necessarily be accurate indications of whether, or the times at or by which, such future performance will be achieved. Forward-looking statements and information are based on information available at the time and/or the Company management's good-faith beliefs with respect to future events and are subject to known or unknown risks, uncertainties, assumptions and other unpredictable factors, many of which are beyond the Company's control. These risks uncertainties and assumptions include, but are not limited to, those described in the section of the Management's Discussion and Analysis (MD&A) entitled "Risk and Uncertainties" as filed on March 30, 2016 on SEDAR, including those under the headings "Recent increase in budgeted capital costs will require additional financing and may adversely impact our prospects", "We will need to raise capital to continue our growth" and "Development Goals and Time Frames".
The Company does not intend, nor does it undertake, any obligation to update or revise any forward-looking information or statements contained in this document to reflect subsequent information, events or circumstances or otherwise, except as required by applicable laws.
FOR FURTHER INFORMATION PLEASE CONTACT:
NATIONAL Equicom
Marc Lakmaaker, External Investor Relations Consultant
416-848-1397
mlakmaaker@national.ca
For Media Inquiries:
NATIONAL Equicom
Scott Anderson, External Media Relations Consultant
416-586-1954
sanderson@national.ca
Source: Orbite Technologies Inc.
nagoya1
8 years ago
Orbite Announces HPA Update and Second Quarter 2016 Results
MONTREAL, QUEBEC--(Marketwired - July 28, 2016) - Orbite Technologies Inc. (TSX:ORT)(OTCQX:EORBF)
("Orbite", or the "Company") today filed its financial statements for the second quarter ended June 30th, 2016. The Company reported a loss before net finance expense and taxes of $1.8 million for the quarter, a decrease from a loss of $3.5 million for the comparable quarter in the prior year, attributable mainly to lower general and administrative expenses, as well as an increase in other income of $1.0 million.
As at June 30th, 2016, the Company had aggregate cash and short-term investments balance of $5.6 million, and positive working capital (current assets less current liabilities) of $6.4 million. Subsequent to June 30th, 2016, the Company drew the remaining $2.1 million on the $4.9 million 2016 Investissement Quebec ("IQ") bridge loan. As a result, the Company has, on a pro-forma basis, cash and short-term investments of $7.7 million.
All dollar amounts are in Canadian dollars unless stated otherwise.
Highlights - Second Quarter and Subsequent Events
Corporate & Financing
-- During the quarter, the Company completed financings for an aggregate
amount of $16 million. The funds raised enabled the Company to award the ontracts towards the completion of Orbite's High Purity Alumina (HPA)
plant and reaccelerate construction as described below.
-- On May 12th, 2016, the Company announced the appointment of Charles
Taschereau Vice-President and Chief Operating Officer of the Company.
HPA Plant Construction
-- Fjordtech Industries Inc., who was awarded the contract for the
remaining piping mechanical work, commenced work during the week of July 4th, and is proceeding as planned. Installation of the piping for the plant's cooling water system was completed on schedule, and Fjordtech is now concentrating on the crystallization sector piping installation, to be followed by installation of the piping for the digestion sector.
-- The contract for the remaining electrical and instrumentation work,
awarded to Electro Kingsey who commenced work on July 11th, is also
proceeding as per schedule and is being completed concurrently with the
completion of the piping installation by Fjordtech. Installation of
electrical and instrumentation was also completed for the cooling water
system. Work will now proceed in the crystallization and digestion
sectors of the plant.
-- Both contracts are being carried out on a fixed-price basis with penalty
provisions for late delivery, and stipulate an 8 week project timeline,
with work continuing over the present construction holidays. The
contracts respect the revised project budget.
-- Isolation Morissette has completed the insulation work on the steam
piping and the calcination system (decomposer & calciner), also under a
fixed price contract. Insulation work is now 75% complete.
-- All other construction is complete (civil and structural, major
mechanical installation, decomposer and calciner installation), or
materially complete (ventilation).
Commissioning & Start-up
-- As reported on June 21st, commissioning and cold start-up activities of
the decomposer and calciner units were completed successfully.
-- Additional cold testing was successfully conducted over the last few
weeks. Alumina product (SGA) was successfully fluidized in both
reactors, and up to 5 tonnes per day was successfully transferred from
the decomposer to the calciner via the sealpot assembly system. Control
and stability over the transfer of material through the seal pot was
tested, and the sealing of the toric discharge device was verified.
-- Commissioning and start-up of the cooling water system is commencing and
will be completed by August 1st.
-- Field service personnel from Outotec (decomposer and calciner) and
Sandvik (calciner system heating elements) will be mobilizing on site
the week of August 1st, to commence commissioning and startup of the
steam superheater and the heating elements in the calciner and
decomposer. Initial heating up of the decomposer and calciner is
forecast for mid-August.
Management commentary
"Following the completion of our financing with Investissement Quebec, we were able to reaccelerate construction work at our HPA plant," stated Glenn Kelly, CEO of Orbite. "Work is progressing on schedule and on budget to meet the timeline communicated to shareholders previously, while commissioning activities continue to meet expectations. Consequently, we reiterate our expectation of commencing commercial production in Q3 of this year."
Continued highlights
Samples
-- To date, 27 samples have been shipped to prospective customers,
including one 50kg commercial sample. Two further commercial samples
have been ordered (3 in total, to date). A further 21 samples are to be
shipped to 20 additional prospective customers.
AGM - Board of Directors
-- On Jun 22th, 2016, the Company held its annual meeting of shareholders.
All Directors put forward by the Company were voted in office.
IP
-- During the quarter, seven notices of allowance were received.
Additionally, seven new patents were granted, for a total of 14 new
intellectual property rights.
-- The newly awarded IP covers notably the HPA production process, Red Mud
Monetization, and magnesium extraction and recovery.
-- Coverage was expanded in the U.S., Russia, Australia, Japan and Canada.
Summary of Q2 2016 Financial Results
Revenues and earnings
The Company is a development stage company and has no revenues.
Net loss for Q2 2016 decreased by $1.8 million to $1.9 million, as compared to the same period in the prior year. The decrease in net loss during the quarter is principally due to proceeds received or receivable from the insurance claim for a 2014 incident at the HPA plant, resulting in a positive change in Other Income of $1.0 million, as well as a $0.5 million reduction in general and administrative expense.
HPA plant operations
HPA plant operations include administration, operating and maintenance costs for the HPA plant in Cap-Chat. HPA plant operation expenses remained relatively stable at $1.1 million during the quarter ended June 30th, 2016 compared to the second quarter in 2015.
General and administrative charges
General and administration charges consist mostly of personnel related costs (salaries and benefits), share-based payment expenses, consulting, accounting, business development, legal, and investor relation costs relating to head office activities. General and administrative charges decreased by $0.5 million during the quarter compared to the same period in 2015. This decrease is due mainly to a decrease in salaries, share-based payments, investor relations and communication, partially offset by an increase in consulting and professional fees.
Financial position
Cash and short-term investments and working capital
As at June 30th, 2016, the Company had aggregate cash and short-term investments balance of $5.6 million, and positive working capital (current assets less current liabilities) of $6.4 million.
Subsequent to quarter end, the Company drew the remaining $2.1 million on the $4.9 million 2016 IQ bridge loan. As a result, the Company has, on a pro-forma basis, cash and short-term investments of $7.7 million.
Financing activities
-- On May 5th, 2016, the Company concluded a $4.9 million bridge loan with
IQ, collateralized against the Company's investment tax credits
receivable ("ITC") for the 2016 financial year which are expected to
total $6.5 million.
-- On May 6th, 2016, the Company closed a non-brokered private placement
totaling $1.0 million.
-- On May 11th and June 27th, 2016, the Company received payments totaling
$3.6 million from tax authorities in Quebec for 2014 investment tax
credits ("ITC"), used to pay down a portion of the Company's revolving
credit facility and term loan A on a prorated basis.
-- On May 19th, 2016, the Company completed an equity financing in the
amount of $5 million with Ressources Quebec inc. ("Ressources Quebec"),
a subsidiary of IQ.
-- On June 1st, the Company completed a $5.0 million debt financing with
IQ.
A more comprehensive description of the Company's financing activities is provided in the Company's MD&A and other filings on www.sedar.com.
Property, plant, and equipment
The Company recorded a net increase in Property, plant, and equipment ("PP&E") of $11.9 million in the first six months of 2016 compared to December 31st, 2015, mainly attributable to investment in the HPA plant.
Cash Flow Statement
Cash Flows from Operating Activities
Cash flows used in operating activities remained stable at $4.3 million. An increase in Other Income and lower General and Administrative expense were offset by a decrease in non-cash working capital items.
Cash Flows from Financing Activities
Cash flows from financing activities in Q2 2016 decreased by $3.2 million as compared to the same period in the prior year. This decrease is due mainly to lower proceeds received from the issuance of Convertible debentures partially offset by the issuance of shares, warrantsand the exercise of options.
Cash Flows used in Investing Activities
Cash flows used in investing activities decreased by $3.8 million. During the quarter, the Company focused on raising the funds required to complete its HPA facility. During this period, the Company had de-mobilized external contractors on site and generally reduced construction activities to preserve working capital.
Conference call
Orbite management will hold a conference call and provide a live audio webcast today, July 28th, 2016 at 10:00 a.m. to discuss the Company's financials and provide an update on the Company's HPA plant.
The call will be held in English. The Q&A session will be in English and French.
CONFERENCE CALL DETAILS:
Date: July 28th, 2016
Time: 10:00 a.m. (EDT)
Dial in number: +1 888 231-8191
+1 647 427-7450
Webcast: http://bit.ly/29R80yd
Taped replay: +1 855 859-2056
+1 514 807-9274
+1 416 849-0833
Encore password: 47838647
Available until: 12:00 midnight (EDT), Thursday, August 4th, 2016
Notice to Reader
The information provided in this press release is entirely qualified by the disclosures in the Company's Consolidated Interim Financial Statements and Management Discussion & Analysis (MD&A) for the quarter ended June 30, 2016, which are available at www.orbitetech.com and under the Company's profile at www.sedar.com.
nagoya1
9 years ago
Orbite Announces Second Quarter 2015 Results and
Provides Update on HPA Construction
Project on schedule to commence commissioning in Q3 and commercial production in Q4
Montréal, Québec. July 31, 2015 – Orbite Technologies Inc. (TSX: ORT / OTCQX: EORBF)
(“Orbite”, or the “Company”) announced today the filing of its Consolidated Interim Financial
Statements for the second quarter ended June 30, 2015. The Company reported a net loss of
$3.7 million (or $0.01 per share) for the second quarter, as compared to a net loss of $4.3 million
($0.02 per share) for the same period in 2014, representing a decrease of 12.7%. The company
also reported a net working capital of $8.5 million. All dollar amounts are in Canadian dollars
unless stated otherwise.
Second Quarter Highlights
• The Company completed several financing initiatives during the quarter towards the funding of
its HPA facility.
- A public offering of units in the amount of $10 million in a bought deal was closed on April
6, 2015, with a $5 million over-allotment option retained by EuroPacific Canada Inc., the
underwriter. Subsequently, on May 6, the Company announced issuance of additional
units for gross proceeds of $5 million as a result of the exercise by Euro Pacific Canada
Inc. of its over-allotment option.
- Orbite received a $2 million installment and announced it would be receiving an additional
$3.0 million installment from the Government of Québec towards its 2012 and 2013
Québec Investment Tax Credits, related to equipment purchased for manufacturing and
processing in the Gaspé region. The Company received or expects to receive shortly the
totality of the $25.7 million of tax credits due to the Company related to the 2012 and 2013
financial years. $25.0 million of these funds will be deposited in a segregated account and
serve as security for the convertible debentures issued in 2012. The remaining $0.7
million along with $0.2 million in related interest to be received will be applied towards the
financing of the HPA plant.
- The Company received confirmation from its tax advisors that it should be eligible to
receive up to $7.5 million in tax credit refunds for fiscal 2015, as well as be eligible to
receive investment tax credits for investments in the Gaspé region to be made in 2016
and 2017.
- Investissement Québec ("IQ") agreed to provide Orbite with a $5.0 million bridge loan,
collateralized against the Company's investment tax credits receivable for the year 2015.
- Orbite and Crede Capital, the holder of the Series Y Subscription Rights, mutually agreed
to terminate the Series Y Subscription Rights.
• Orbite shipped high purity alumina (“HPA”) samples to five prospective customers, thereby
entering their supplier qualification programs. The samples were produced using a modified
set-up of the existing calcination equipment at the Company's HPA facility in Cap-Chat.
• The Company received patents in both Canada and the United States pertaining to its Red
Mud Monetization technology, namely Canadian patent 2,857,574 and U.S. patent 9,023,301,
both titled Processes for Treating Red Mud.
• Orbite announced that it received notification from IP Australia of the granting and the delivery
of patent 2012308068 pertaining to Processes for preparing alumina and various other
products.
• Orbite announced that effective June 17, 2015, the Company had changed its name to Orbite
Technologies Inc. to better reflect Orbite's current vision and growth prospects. Concurrently
with its name change, the Company's shares began trading under the "Industrial/Technology"
listing segment on the Toronto Stock Exchange, instead of "Mining".
• On June 18, 2015, the Company held its 2015 annual and special shareholders meeting
during which shareholders approved all of the resolutions proposed by management, including
the approval of the Company's newly implemented restricted share unit plan and deferred
share unit plan.
Subsequent events
• Orbite announced that the National Research Council of Canada (NRC) will evaluate Orbite's
High Purity Alumina (HPA) for use in lithium-ion battery separators in collaboration with
Orbite's Technology Development Center.
• On July 10, 2015, the Company received $2.7 million from the Government of Québec in
consideration of investment tax credits on the equipment purchased for manufacturing and
processing in the Gaspé region. The payment relates to the 2012 and 2013 financial year and
the Company expects subsequent payments to follow. At the date of publication of the
consolidated financial statements a total amount of $25,000,000 had been received and was
deposited in a segregated account to serve as security for the convertible debentures issued
in December 2012.
• On July 20, 2015, the Company drew $3.7 million on the $5 million bridge loan from
Investissement Québec. As of July 20, 2015, $6.7 million was drawn on the aggregate $8.03
million available.
HPA Construction Update (Recent pictures can be found in the Media section of Orbite’s
website www.orbitetech.com)
Further to the Company’s press release of June 12, 2015, refractory materials installation is now
materially complete.
Decomposer and Calciner
• Refractory installation process and internal prepping of the ovens at Cap-Chat commenced at
the end of March, as planned, with CNC Mechanical (2002) Inc. (“CNC”) and RHI Canada Inc.
(“RHI”).
• Replacement bricks were successfully precast using the new refractory material and refractory
installation in the calciner system auxiliary piping was completed at RHI in Boucherville and
underwent curing at Les Services Mobiles Thermetco’s (“Thermetco”) facility in Montreal.
• Installation of refractory materials (bricks, mortar, and castable) in the calciner, decomposer
and piping under technical oversight from Outotec and refractory suppliers is now materially
complete. One last small section of the calciner floor will be cast August 1.
• A four-week heating and curing process of the refractory in both ovens will thus commence
the first week of August and will be carried out by RHI/Thermetco.
Steam Piping
• Shop prefabrication of specialty alloy piping, required for the high-temperature steam supply to
the decomposer and calcinator is ongoing, and onsite installation is to commence in August,
as planned.
Lined Piping
• Prefabrication of lined piping (acid duty) is ongoing and delivery to site for installation is
scheduled for August, as planned.
All piping, including utilities
• Bids for installation of all piping have been received and the contractor has been selected. The
Company is in the process of finalizing contractual agreements with the selected company
and site installation work will commence in early August.
Mechanical
• CNC, who successfully installed the decomposer and calciner, has been on site on a
continuous basis installing minor and major mechanical equipment. This segment of
construction is proceeding as planned and is expected to be concluded by in August.
Electrical and Instrumentation
• Contract was awarded to Les entreprises d’électricité JMN Inc. from Matane (Québec).
Electrical work, including installation of the main inlet transformer and the Outotec electrical
supply system, has commenced and will continue until start-up.
Structural, buildings and foundations
• Foundation work was awarded to Les Entreprises Roy Duguay & Associés from Cap-Chat. All
major exterior foundations (hydroxide silo, cooling tower, new building extensions, etc) are
completed. Major equipment foundations inside the plant have also been completed.
• The structural and building contracts were awarded to Atelier de Soudure Gilles Roy Inc.
(“ASGR”) from Amqui (Québec). Prefabrication of the new building extensions, to house the
crystallizer heat exchangers and the electrical control room for the calcination system, is
complete. Onsite installation commenced in June and is proceeding as planned.
• ASGR is also presently completing various internal modifications to the structure as well as
the installation of equipment and personnel platforms.
Ventilation and Insulation
• The bid evaluation process for supply and installation of insulation on calcination equipment
and high temperature piping and vessels and for the installation of a new ventilation system is
complete. The Company is negotiating final contractual agreements with the selected
contractors and installation will begin in August.
Procurement, Schedule and Budget
• Delivery dates for the majority of critical long lead items continue to be respected by suppliers.
• Orbite anticipates commencement of commissioning in Q3 2015, and the start of commercial
production in Q4 2015.
• The project is tracking on budget.
Operational Readiness
• Operating personnel have completed a 40-module operations training program, representing
approximately 275 training hours per person to date. Practical operations training commenced
in late June and will continue through commissioning and start-up.
• Health and Safety and Emergency Response Plans for continuous operations have been
completed and continue to be implemented.
• Commissioning and start-up procedures continue to be finalized by project and operations
personnel.
Samples Production Update
Feedback on purity and chemical composition of samples sent to date is positive. Prospective
customers would also like to test HPA that is more representative of full-scale, commercial
production, notably relative to mechanical properties.
Orbite subsequently modified its existing calcination equipment and process to mimic more
closely the new permanent setup. New samples were produced at Cap-Chat, and are now
undergoing final calcination. These new samples are even more representative of the Company’s
intended final products and are to ship late August-early September.
Furthermore, following the start-up and commissioning of the milling equipment at Cap-Chat, to
be carried out in August, Orbite intends to prepare additional samples meeting certain specific
potential customer requirements relative to particle size and distribution. These samples are
expected to ship in October.
“We are making steady progress towards the completion of our HPA plant,” stated Glenn Kelly,
CEO of Orbite. “The work on our calcination system is materially done, and we are now working
on the auxiliary systems to integrate the calcination system with the rest of the plant. We are on
the home stretch now, with the finishing line in sight. Modifying our existing calcination system,
though time consuming, has enabled us to accelerate the qualification process with a number of
potential customers. The fact that we have been invited to supply additional samples, more
representative of what we anticipate to be our output once HPA2 is operational, validates our
assumptions that there is demand in the market place for suppliers who are able to provide a
consistent supply of high-grade HPA.”
“During the quarter we made further progress towards shoring up our capital structure and
continue to pursue funding that will have the least dilutive impact on our shareholder base. We
are confident of concluding the funding required to complete our plant and the period beyond,
when we can start focusing on our existence as a commercial, revenue generating entity, and
accelerate our waste monetization strategy.”
Summary of Q2 2015 Financial Results
Revenues and earnings
The Company is a development stage company and has no revenues.
Net loss for Q2 2015 decreased by $0.55 million to $3.7 million, or from $0.02 per share to $0.01
per share, as compared to the same period in the prior year. The decrease in net loss was due
primarily to a reduction in financing costs and other expense, offset partially by an increase in
HPA plant operating expenses, reflecting increased activity at the Company’s HPA facility.
Net loss for the six months ending June 30, 2015 fell by $2.3 million to $6.4 million, as compared
to the same period in 2014. The reduction in net loss was attributable mainly to a $1 million
reduction in General and Administrative expense and a reduction in financing costs and other
expense.
Financial position
Cash and short-term investments
As at June 30, 2015, the Company had aggregate cash and short-term investments balance of
$4.1 million, and positive working capital (current assets less current liabilities) of $8.5 million.
Investment tax credits and other government assistance receivable
Investment tax credits and other government assistance receivable increased by $2.3 million
during the six-month period compared to December 31, 2014. The increase is mainly due to the
recognition of the 2015 investment tax credits, receivable on the equipment purchased for
manufacturing and processing in the Gaspé region.
Restricted cash
Restricted cash increased by $6.1 million during the first six months of 2015, compared to
December 31, 2014. These funds represent a portion of the refundable 2012 and 2013
investment tax credits, as well as the interest earned on such deposits, in a segregated account,
which serves as security for the 2012 convertible debentures. These funds will be released to the
Company according to the terms of the trust indenture agreement.
Property, plant, and equipment
Property, plant, and equipment (“PP&E”) increased by $6.9 million in the first six months of 2015
compared to December 31, 2014. The net increase results from $9.3 million, before investment
tax credits, invested in PP&E, partially offset by $2.3 million investment tax credits.
Short-term loan
Short term loan increased by $3.0 million during 2015 compared to December 31, 2014 due to
the receipt of the $3.0 million loan from Investissement Québec.
Cash Flow Statement
Cash Flows from Operating Activities
Cash flows used in operating activities increased by $1.0 million during the quarter ended June
30, 2015 compared to the same period of 2014, and decreased by $0.8 million during the first six
months of 2015, as compared to the same period in 2014. Cash flows used for operations, which
is cash flows used in operating activities, adjusted for certain non-cash working capital items and
net interest payments, decreased by $0.1 million and by $0.5 million for the quarter and the six
month-period ended June 30, 2015 respectively, compared to the same periods in 2014, while
cash flows used in non-cash working capital items increased by $1.1 million during the quarter
ended June 30, 2015, and decreased by $0.2 million for the six months ended June, 2015 as
compared to the same period of 2014.
The decreases in cash flows used for operations during the quarter and six-month period ended
June 30, 2015, are due mainly to a reduction in general and administrative expenses. The
increase in non-cash working capital items during the quarter ended June 30, 2015, is principally
due to investment tax credits and other governmental assistance receivable recognized during
the period.
Cash Flows from Financing Activities
Cash flows from financing activities increased by $2.9 million and by $2.0 million during the
quarter and the first six months ended June 30, 2015, respectively, as compared to the same
periods in 2014. The increase for the six-month period ended June 30, 2015 compared to the
same period in 2014 is due mainly to the net proceeds from the issuance of the 2015 convertible
debentures and short-term debt from Investissement Québec, partially offset by lower proceeds
from issuance of shares, warrants, exercise of options, and long-term debt.
Cash Flows used in Investing Activities
Cash flows used in investing activities increased by $3.8 million and by $0.8 million during the
quarter and the six months ended June 30, 2015, respectively, mainly due to increased
investments in the Company’s HPA plant construction.
Capital Resources
In order to finance ongoing construction and subsequent commissioning of its HPA plant, the
Company closed a $10 million bought deal on April 6, 2015 and an additional $5 million on May 6,
2015.
On June 19, 2015 Orbite entered into a loan agreement with Investissement Québec for up to
$5.0 million, collateralized against the Company’s investment tax credits to be received for fiscal
2015, which the Company’s tax advisors estimate at $7.5 million. This is in addition to the $3.0
million loan agreement entered into with Investissement Québec on January 13, 2015, and
collateralized against the Company’s 2014 investment tax credits. As of July 30, 2015, $6.7
million had been drawn from the available aggregate of $8.03 million.
Finally, with the receipt of a $2.7 million instalment related to the Company’s investment tax
credits for the fiscal years 2012 and 2013, the Company has a total of $25 million, as restricted
cash, pledged against the 2012 convertible debenture.
Orbite management will hold a conference call and provide a live audio webcast today, July 31,
2015 at 10:00 a.m. to discuss the Company’s financials and provide an update on the Company’s
HPA project.
The call will be held in English. The Q&A session will be in English and French.
CONFERENCE CALL DETAILS:
Date: July 31, 2015
Time: 10:00 a.m. (ET)
Dial in number: +1 888 231-8191
+1 647 427-7450
Webcast: http://bit.ly/1KiShn7
Taped replay: +1 855 859-2056
+1 514 807-9274
+1 416 849-0833
Encore password: 91927016
Available until: 12:00 midnight (ET), Friday, August 7, 2015
Notice to Reader
The information provided in this press release is entirely qualified by the disclosures in the
Company’s Consolidated Interim Financial Statements and Management Discussion & Analysis
(MD&A) for the quarter ended June 30, 2015, which are available at www.orbitetech.com and
under the Company’s profile at www.sedar.com.
About Orbite
Orbite Technologies Inc. is a Canadian cleantech company whose innovative and proprietary
processes are expected to produce alumina and other high-value products, such as rare earth
and rare metal oxides, at one of the lowest costs in the industry, and in a sustainable fashion,
using feedstocks that include aluminous clay, kaolin, nepheline, bauxite, red mud, fly ash as well
as serpentine residues from chrysotile processing sites. Orbite is currently in the process of
finalizing its first commercial high-purity alumina (HPA) production plant in Cap-Chat, Québec and
has completed the basic engineering for a proposed smelter-grade alumina (SGA) production
plant, which would use clay mined from its Grande-Vallée deposit. The Company’s portfolio
contains 15 intellectual property families, including 18 patents and 107 pending patent
applications in 11 different countries and regions. The first intellectual property family is patented
in Canada, USA, Australia, China, Japan and Russia. The Company also operates a state of the
art technology development center in Laval, Québec, where its technologies are developed and
validated.
Forward-looking statements
Certain information contained in this document may include "forward-looking information".
Without limiting the foregoing, the information and any forward-looking information may include
statements regarding projects, costs, objectives and future returns of the Company or hypotheses
underlying these items. In this document, words such as "may", "would", "could", "will", "likely",
"believe", "expect", "anticipate", "intend", "plan", "estimate" and similar words and the negative
form thereof are used to identify forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements should
not be read as guarantees of future performance or results, and will not necessarily be accurate
indications of whether, or the times at or by which, such future performance will be achieved.
Forward-looking statements and information are based on information available at the time and/or
the Company management's good-faith beliefs with respect to future events and are subject to
known or unknown risks, uncertainties, assumptions and other unpredictable factors, many of
which are beyond the Company's control. These risks uncertainties and assumptions include, but
are not limited to, those described in the section of the Management's Discussion and Analysis
(MD&A) entitled "Risk and Uncertainties" as filed on March 31, 2015.
The Company does not intend, nor does it undertake, any obligation to update or revise any
forward-looking information or statements contained in this document to reflect subsequent
information, events or circumstances or otherwise, except as required by applicable laws.
CONTACT INFORMATION:
NATIONAL Equicom
Marc Lakmaaker, External Investor Relations Consultant
Tel: 1-800-385-5451, ext. 248
Email: mlakmaaker@equicomgroup.com
For Media Inquiries:
NATIONAL Equicom
Scott Anderson, External Media Relations Consultant
Tel.:1- 800-385-545, ext. 252
Email: sanderson@equicomgroup.com
nagoya1
10 years ago
Annual and Special Meeting Results
Date : 06/20/2014 @ 10:39AM
Source : Marketwired
Stock : Orbite Aluminae, Inc. (QX) (EORBF)
Quote : 0.35 0.0 (0.00%) @ 11:46AM
Orbite Announces Annual and Special Meeting Results
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Orbite Announces Annual and Special Meeting Results
MONTREAL, QUEBEC--(Marketwired - Jun 20, 2014) - Orbite Aluminae Inc. (TSX:ORT)(OTCQX:EORBF) ("Orbite" or the "Coporation") announced today that shareholders have approved all resolutions put forth at the Annual and Special Meeting of Shareholders held in Montréal, Québec, on Thursday, June 19, 2014.
Shareholders elected each of the Corporation's nominees for director by the following votes cast by ballot:
Director Votes For % For Votes Withheld % Withheld
Claude Lamoureux 61,954,112 99.43 352,219 0.57
Glenn Kelly 61,963,337 99.41 368,494 0.59
Stephane Bertrand 60,803,458 97.59 1,501,313 2.41
Peter Crossgrove 61,853,357 99.28 451,414 0.72
Pascal Decary 61,334,352 98.44 968,919 1.56
Lionel Leveillé 60,584,788 97.24 1,719,983 2.76
Pierre Meunier 61,061,382 98.00 1,243,389 2.00
Shaun Usmar 61,365,442 98.49 939,328 1.51
Christian Van Houtte 60,875,937 97.71 1,428,834 2.29
Shareholders voted to appoint KPMG LLP as the Corporation's auditor, and authorized the directors to fix their remuneration.
Shareholders approved the ratification of By-Law no. 2014-2 implementing the Advance Notice Requirements regarding the election of directors, general By-Law no. 2014-1 relating to the business and affairs of the Corporation and the repeal of By-Law 2010-2.
Shareholders also ratified and approved the continuation of the revised Shareholders Rights Plan and the Corporation's name change to "ORBITE TECHNOLOGIES INC. / TECHNOLOGIES ORBITE INC." The new name will be effective in mid-September as the Corporation is developing its new branding and website.
Complete voting results can be found on www.sedar.com
About Orbite
Orbite Aluminae Inc. is a Canadian cleantech company whose innovative and proprietary processes are expected to produce alumina and other high-value products, such as rare earth and rare metal oxides, at one of the lowest costs in the industry, and in a sustainable fashion, using feedstocks that include aluminous clay, kaolin, nepheline, bauxite, red mud and fly ash. Orbite is currently in the process of finalizing its first commercial high-purity alumina (HPA) production plant in Cap-Chat, Québec and has completed the basic engineering for a proposed smelter-grade alumina (SGA) production plant, which would use clay mined from its Grande-Vallée deposit. The Corporation's intellectual property portfolio contains 16 intellectual property families, and the Corporation owns the intellectual property rights to 11 patents and 68 pending patent applications in 10 different countries and regions. The first intellectual property family is patented in Canada, USA, Australia, China, and Russia. The Corporation also operates a state of the art technology development center in Laval, Québec, where its technologies are developed and validated.
Forward-looking statements
Certain information contained in this document may include "forward-looking information". Without limiting the foregoing, the information and any forward-looking information may include statements regarding projects, costs, objectives and future returns of the Corporation or hypotheses underlying these items. In this document, words such as "may", "would", "could", "will", "likely", "believe", "expect", "anticipate", "intend", "plan", "estimate" and similar words and the negative form thereof are used to identify forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements should not be read as guarantees of future performance or results, and will not necessarily be accurate indications of whether, or the times at or by which, such future performance will be achieved. Forward-looking statements and information are based on information available at the time and/or the Corporation management's good-faith beliefs with respect to future events and are subject to known or unknown risks, uncertainties, assumptions and other unpredictable factors, many of which are beyond the Corporation's control. These risks uncertainties and assumptions include, but are not limited to, those described in the section of the Management's Discussion and Analysis (MD&A) entitled "Risk and Uncertainties" as filed on May 13, 2014.
The Corporation does not intend, nor does it undertake, any obligation to update or revise any forward-looking information or statements contained in this document to reflect subsequent information, events or circumstances or otherwise, except as required by applicable laws.
Investor Relations:
TMX EQUICOM
Mark Lakmaaker, External Investor Relations Consultant
1-800-385-5451, ext. 248
mlakmaaker@tmxequicom.com
For Media Inquiries:
TMX EQUICOM
Shaun Smith, External Media Relations Consultant
1- 800-385-5451, ext. 252
ssmith@tmxequicom.com
nagoya1
11 years ago
Completion of 10M$ Equity Investment by the Government of Quebec
Date : 05/27/2014 @ 8:48AM
Source : Marketwired
Stock : Orbite Aluminae, Inc. (QX) (EORBF)
Quote : 0.25 0.0 (0.00%) @ 7:50AM
Orbite Announces Completion of 10M$ Equity Investment by the Government of Quebec
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Orbite Announces Completion of 10M$ Equity Investment by the Government of Quebec
MONTREAL, QUEBEC--(Marketwired - May 27, 2014) - Orbite Aluminae Inc. (TSX:ORT) (OTCQX:EORBF) ("Orbite" or the "Corporation"), is pleased to announce that, following its press release of March 3rd, the Corporation has completed the $10,000,000 equity financing with Ressources Québec ("RQ"), a subsidiary of Investissement Québec.
As part of the financing, Ressources Québec purchased 35,714,286 units of the Corporation at a price of $0.28 per unit, each unit being comprised of one class A share and one half (1/2) of one class A share purchase warrant. Each full warrant entitles RQ to purchase one class A share of the Corporation at a price of $0.33 for 36 months from the date of closing.
"We are very pleased to welcome the Québec Government as an important shareholder in Orbite" said Glenn Kelly, Orbite's President and CEO. "We believe this investment shows confidence in the future of our HPA production facility and recognizes the importance of Orbite as an employer in the region."
The shares and warrants issued pursuant to the financing will be subject to a four month hold following the closing date. The net proceeds of the financing will be used towards the current construction of Orbite's HPA production facility in Cap-Chat, Québec.
About Orbite
Orbite Aluminae Inc. is a Canadian cleantech company whose innovative and proprietary processes are expected to produce alumina and other high-value products, such as rare earth and rare metal oxides, at one of the lowest costs in the industry, and in a sustainable fashion, using feedstocks that include aluminous clay, kaolin, nepheline, bauxite, red mud and fly ash. Orbite is currently in the process of finalizing its first commercial high-purity alumina (HPA) production plant in Cap-Chat, Québec and has completed the basic engineering for a proposed smelter-grade alumina (SGA) production plant, which would use clay mined from its Grande-Vallée deposit. The Corporation's intellectual property portfolio contains 15 intellectual property families, and the Corporation owns the intellectual property rights to 11 patents and 66 pending patent applications in 10 different countries and regions. The first intellectual property family is patented in Canada, USA, Australia, China, and Russia. The Corporation also operates a state of the art technology development center in Laval, Québec, where its technologies are developed and validated.
Forward-looking statements
Certain information contained in this document may include "forward-looking information". Without limiting the foregoing, the information and any forward-looking information may include statements regarding projects, costs, objectives and future returns of the Corporation or hypotheses underlying these items. In this document, words such as "may", "would", "could", "will", "likely", "believe", "expect", "anticipate", "intend", "plan", "estimate" and similar words and the negative form thereof are used to identify forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements should not be read as guarantees of future performance or results, and will not necessarily be accurate indications of whether, or the times at or by which, such future performance will be achieved. Forward-looking statements and information are based on information available at the time and/or the Corporation management's good-faith beliefs with respect to future events and are subject to known or unknown risks, uncertainties, assumptions and other unpredictable factors, many of which are beyond the Corporation's control. These risks uncertainties and assumptions include, but are not limited to, those described in the section of the Management's Discussion and Analysis (MD&A) entitled "Risk and Uncertainties" as filed on May 13, 2014.
The Corporation does not intend, nor does it undertake, any obligation to update or revise any forward-looking information or statements contained in this document to reflect subsequent information, events or circumstances or otherwise, except as required by applicable laws.
Investor Relations
TMX EQUICOM
Mark Lakmaaker, External Investor Relations Consultant
1-800-385-5451 ext. 248
mlakmaaker@tmxequicom.com
For Media Inquiries
TMX EQUICOM
Shaun Smith, External Media Relations Consultant
1-800-385-5451, ext. 252
ssmith@tmxequicom.com
nagoya1
11 years ago
Orbite Announces First Quarter 2014 Results and Updates Construction of HPA Facility
Date : 05/13/2014 @ 8:00AM
Source : Marketwired
Stock : Orbite Aluminae, Inc. (QX) (EORBF)
Quote : 0.2755 0.0 (0.00%) @ 11:12AM
Orbite Announces First Quarter 2014 Results and Updates Construction of HPA Facility
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Orbite Announces First Quarter 2014 Results and Updates Construction of HPA Facility
MONTREAL, QUEBEC--(Marketwired - May 13, 2014) - Orbite Aluminae Inc. (TSX:ORT)(OTCQX:EORBF) ("Orbite", or the "Corporation") announced today the filing of its first quarter financial results ended March 31, 2014 and provided an update on the construction of its HPA facility.
First Quarter Highlights
All dollar amounts are in Canadian dollars unless stated otherwise.
Advanced its high purity alumina ("HPA") project development with its partners for detailed engineering, project management, procurement, as well as ordered the calcination system for the production of HPA.
Received a $3.8 million non-interest bearing repayable financial contribution from Canada Economic Development.
Announced that the Government of Québec formally approved a $10 million equity investment in Orbite. The finalization of the equity investment by the Government of Québec continues to proceed as planned.
Issued series X and Y subscription rights, requiring the institutional investor to purchase up to $40 million of the Corporation's debentures. Orbite has chosen to defer the 10M$ investment under the series X subscription rights. Initially contemplated for May 15th, 2014, the Company anticipates to effect closing no later than mid-July 2014. Upon shareholder approval, the investor will be required to invest a further $30 million of debentures of the Corporation under the series Y subscription rights following completion of the series X investment.
Continued to control its costs and operate within budget estimates.
Cash and Short-Term Investments of $5.3 million as at March 31, 2014. Positive Working Capital of $5.3 million.
Non-current Investment tax credits receivable of $27.3 million.
Property, Plant and Equipment of $66.9 million.
Quarterly Net loss and Comprehensive loss of $4.4 million or $0.02 per share, up by $3.9 million compared to Q1-2013, and down by $4.6 million, or 51%, compared to Q4-2013.
Cash flows used in operating activities of $3.6 million.
Cash flows from financing activities of $3.9 million.
Cash flows used for investing activities of $5.3 million.
Shareholders' equity of $89.0 million, up 8.2% from December 31, 2013.
Events Subsequent to the Quarter
Orbite announced the nomination of Mr. Claude Lamoureux as Chairman of the Board of Directors of the Corporation and the appointment of Mr. Glenn Kelly, the Corporation's President and CEO, as a member of the Board.
Orbite ended ongoing discussions and terminated its memorandum of understanding with Rusal UC pertaining to its Smelter Grade Alumina project.
"We continue to execute well against our twelve-month time line towards completion of our HPA production facility, and I am pleased with our progress, which provides increasing visibility on our commercialization," stated Glenn Kelly, Orbite's CEO. "In the past quarter, we accomplished a number of important milestones, such as the ordering of the calcinator from world leader Outotec. We concluded a limited production run, the results of which were positive and in line with our expectations based on work done at our state of the art Technology Development Centre. Other important deliverables, such as detailed engineering, project management, schedule finalization and preparing for equipment ordering and construction are all progressing as planned. Other highlights for the quarter include the $3.8 million non-interest bearing loan received from Canada Economic Development, and the announcement by Investissement Québec that they will be making a $10 million equity investment in the Corporation. Finalization of this funding is anticipated shortly."
Mr. Kelly concluded, "With the funding from the Québec and Federal governments, the Series X subscription rights leading to the anticipated completion of the next $10 million tranche by mid-July, as well as the issuance of the Series Y subscription rights, we are sufficiently capitalized to see us through to commercialization. In the coming months, we will increase our commercial efforts to engage with prospective clients in their supplier qualification processes. I look forward to informing the market on our progress in the coming quarters."
Q1 Operating and Construction Update - HPA Plant
During the 1st quarter of 2014, Orbite advanced its HPA project development with its partners Seneca for detailed engineering, Groupe Alphard for project management and procurement, and with Outotec for the supply of its calcination system for the production of high purity alumina.
At its Technology Development Center ("TDC") in Laval, Québec, the Corporation performed numerous pilot trials in order to define the ideal conditions for the HPA synthesis to optimize product quality, production yields as well as operating costs. It also defined operating parameters for different feedstocks. All these are incorporated in the design basis for the HPA project in Cap-Chat.
At the Cap-Chat HPA facility, the Corporation ran a series of successful trials with two commercial feedstocks for the production of aluminium hexahydrate crystals (precursor of the High Purity Alumina) in order to confirm the optimum design conditions at industrial scale as well as to produce high quality feed material for processing of customer samples for their qualification steps. During one of the production trials at the HPA Cap-Chat facility and as reported during our March 17th Conference Call, an incident occurred on a leaching reactor, which resulted in a water line breakage and an accidental release of a mixture of acid, water and solids. No one was hurt and there will be no material impact on either operations or finances. The release was fully contained within the process building and captured in the waste water containment. The cause of the incident has been ascertained and the damaged equipment is being repaired following thorough inspection. The engineering team is working closely with the insurance companies to minimize costs to the Corporation.
The Corporation also performed calcination trials at pilot centers operated by two suppliers which confirmed processing performance and product quality with both systems. Material produced was fully tested at the TDC. Following a thorough technical and commercial assessment of the two offers, the Corporation entered into a supply agreement with Outotec Oyj and Outotec Canada for the supply of the calcination system and auxiliary equipment. During the quarter, Orbite received a $3.8 million financial contribution from Canada Economic Development that was used to purchase the Outotec calcinator. The balance of $0.2 million remaining will be received in 2015. Process design and safety review have been completed and Outotec has begun production of the three main vessels in its fabrication shop in Burlington, Ontario. The Corporation is presently fine-tuning the process control strategy with Outotec's German engineering team. The Corporation expects to be receiving the first shipment of material from Germany in June, including the refractory, auxiliary equipment and HCl scrubbing systems.
On the engineering front, Seneca is progressing as scheduled with the detailed engineering. The Corporation is planning to initiate procurement for the remainder of the equipment and instrumentation in May. The Corporation also expects to complete very shortly a hazard and operability review ("HAZOP").
Together with its various partners, the Corporation is finalizing the detailed construction schedule and establishing the pre-fabrication and the onsite construction requirements. Preliminary discussions with construction companies will commence shortly, and the tender process will be held for contract awards in June with construction start planned for July.
On March 28, 2012, the Corporation announced the signing of a non-binding Memorandum of Understanding ("MOU") with UC RUSAL, pursuant to which the parties intended to invest into a joint-venture for the construction and operation of an SGA plant. Despite extensive and lengthy negotiations, the parties were unable to agree on terms satisfactory to Orbite. As a consequence thereof, the Corporation announces it has terminated the MOU.
Although not a short term priority, the Corporation intends initiating discussions with other potential SGA partners, including Glencore with whom the Corporation executed a binding SGA offtake agreement, regarding a joint venture partnership of its contemplated SGA production facility.
Summary of Financial Results
Comprehensive loss
The Corporation is a development stage company and has no revenues.
Loss before net finance income (expense) and income and mining taxes for the first quarter 2014 increased by $571,535 to $3,414,119, compared to $2,842,384 during the same period in 2013. The increase is attributable mainly to higher HPA plant operation expenses since HPA related costs for Q1 2013 were mostly capitalized and not expensed.
Net loss for the first quarter 2014 increased by $3,900,199 to $4,411,167 ($0.02 per share), compared to $510,968 during the same period in 2013. However, this increase is due mainly to a $3,342,900 non-cash mark-to-market increase in fair value of the convertible debentures presented under net finance expense.
Research and development charges
Research and development charges are generally comprised of employee benefit expenses (salaries and social benefits), share-based payments, consultant expenses and material costs for the Corporation's Technology Development Center in Laval. These charges are presented net of government research and development investment tax credits, and other government assistance of $23,400 and $17,600 for the quarters ended March 31, 2014 and 2013, respectively. Research and development charges increased by $97,652 during the first quarter compared to the same period in 2013 as a result of an increase in salaries, consulting fees and share-based payments.
General and administrative charges
General and administration charges consist mostly of employee benefits (salaries and social benefits), share-based payment expenses, consulting, accounting, business development, legal, and investor relation costs relating to head office activities. General and administrative costs increased by $65,409 during the first quarter compared to the same period in 2013. The increase resulted principally from an increase in share-based payments ($213,386) as well as an accrued severance payment ($166,000), partially offset by decreases in professional fees and a general reduction in expenses resulting from our 2013 cost reduction program.
HPA plant operations
HPA plant operations include administration, care and maintenance costs for the HPA plant in Cap-Chat (Québec) since the pilot plant activities ceased at the end of the second quarter of 2012. Costs incurred at the HPA plant relating directly to the installation of equipment and commissioning of the plant which meet the IFRS criteria for capitalization, are capitalized in property plant and equipment. HPA plant operation expenses increased by $378,378 during the first quarter ended March 31, 2014 compared to the same period in 2013 due to additional personnel dedicated to operating activities, whereas HPA related costs were mostly capitalized during the first quarter of 2013.
Other financial gains (losses)
The Corporation recognized a loss of $986,187 during the first quarter compared to a gain of $2,353,769 in the same period of 2013. The loss during the first quarter is mainly due to the non-cash mark-to-market adjustment relating to the 2013 convertible debentures. The gain during the first quarter of 2013 is principally due to the decrease in fair value of the embedded derivative relating to the 2012 convertible debentures conversion option resulting from a decrease in the Corporation's share price.
Financial position
Cash and short-term investments
Cash and short-term investments decreased by $4,972,031 during the first quarter of 2014 compared to December 31, 2013. The decrease was mainly due to the continued investment in the construction of the HPA plant, research and development, general administration and HPA plant operating expenses. The decrease was partially offset by the $3.8 million financial contribution received from Canada Economic Development.
Property, plant, and equipment
Property, plant, and equipment ("PP&E") increased by $2,028,486 during the first quarter of 2014 compared to December 31, 2013. The net increase resulted from an increase of $5,813,816 before investment tax credits, in the investment in PP&E attributable mainly to the HPA plant, partially offset by $3,711,178 in government grants and refundable investment tax credits on equipment purchases for the HPA plant and the recording of depreciation during the period.
Long-term debt and convertible debentures
Long-term debt (including short-term portion) and convertible debentures increased by $1,752,058 and decreased by $9,514,405 respectively, during the first quarter of 2014, as compared to December 31, 2013. The decrease in convertible debentures results mainly from the exercise of the debenture conversion option by some 2013 debenture holders. The increase in long term-debt is principally due to the receipt of the $3.8 million financial contribution from Canada Economic Development recorded at amortized cost. The loan from Canada Economic Development is non-interest bearing.
Share capital and warrants
Share capital and warrants increased by $10,422,658 mainly due to the issuance of common shares as a result of the conversion of 2013 debentures during the first quarter.
Cash Flows
Cash Flows from Operating Activities
Cash flows used in operating activities were $3,551,223 during the first quarter compared to cash inflows of $985,326 during the same period in 2013. Excluding the non-cash working capital items, and interest paid and received, the cash flows used in operations amounted to $2,646,867 in 2014 compared to $2,268,667 in 2013. The increase of $378,200 is mainly the result of the higher HPA plant administration, care and maintenance cost. The cash flows used in the non-cash working capital items during the first quarter amounted to $427,735 compared to inflows of $3,696,264 in 2013. The significant inflow in 2013 was due to significant sales tax reimbursements during the period.
Cash Flows from Financing Activities
Cash flows from financing activities increased by $3,921,822 during the quarter ended March 31, 2014 compared to the same period in 2013, mainly due to the financial contribution received from Canada Economic Development during the period ended March 31, 2014.
Cash Flows used in Investing Activities
Cash flows used in investing activities decreased by $15,946,227 during the quarter ended March 31, 2014 compared to the same period in 2013, mainly due to a reduction in investments in the HPA plant construction and exploration and evaluation assets.
Liquidity and Capital Resources
As at March 31, 2014, the Corporation had aggregate cash and short-term investments balance of $5,307,431 and positive working capital (current assets less current liabilities) of $5,273,709.
Repayable financial contribution from Canada Economic Development
On January 30, 2014, Orbite announced it was granted a $4 million non-interest bearing repayable financial contribution from Canada Economic Development ("CED") for Québec regions to be used for the purchase and installation of the alumina calcinator, a key element in Orbite's high purity alumina production facility. Based on the agreement, the Corporation received $3,800,000 in March 2014, with the remaining $200,000 to be received in 2015. The contribution is interest free, repayable in 10 consecutive equal semi-annual installments starting 24 months following completion of the HPA Facility. The Loan is secured by a first ranking movable hypothec against the Corporation's movable assets located on the premises of the Corporation's high purity alumina production facility in Cap-Chat, until such time as the calcination equipment is installed and functional, at which time the loan will be secured exclusively by such calcination equipment. In 2010 and 2011 the Corporation received unsecured loans totalling $800,000 from CED, whose maturity was deferred until April 1st, 2016. This loan is also being secured by a first ranking movable hypothec against the Corporation's movable assets located on the premises of the Cap-Chat Facility, until such time as the calcination equipment is installed and functional, at which time the Loan will be secured exclusively by such calcination equipment.
The Corporation intends to complete the financing of the construction and commissioning of the HPA plant through the following sources of funds:
Equity investment from Investissement Québec
On March 3, 2014, the Corporation announced that the Government of Québec formally approved a $10 million equity investment in Orbite by Investissement Québec ("IQ"), a mandatory of the Québec Government. Terms and conditions of the investment, including timing and pricing, are expected to be settled shortly.
Convertible debentures
Orbite also secured a binding commitment by a U.S. based institutional investor providing for the future subscription of $40 million in additional units by way of private placement ("the Subscription Commitment") having identical terms to those of the Units issued in December 2013 (see note 7 of the Annual Financial Statements for the year ended December 31, 2013), with the exception that the conversion price shall be based on the 5 day volume weighted average price ("VWAP") of the Corporation's shares on the last trading day prior to the date on which the subscription rights in respect of which the units are issued first become exercisable, and the Warrants granted shall be equivalent to 45% of the number of Common Shares into which the Debentures are convertible, exercisable at a 20% premium over such conversion price.
As per the terms of the Subscription Commitment, the investor subscribed, on March 10, 2014, to the two (2) series of subscription rights (the "Series X Subscription Rights" and the "Series Y Subscription Rights" and collectively the "Subscription Rights"). The Subscription Rights will be exercisable by the investor and by the Corporation. Upon exercise, the Subscription Rights will require the investor to purchase Additional Units in the total subscription amount of up to $40 million, as follows:
Series X Subscription Rights, requiring the investor upon exercise to purchase Additional Units in the amount of $10 million, failing which such Subscription Rights as well as the rights of Series Y will expire and
Series Y Subscription Rights, requiring the investor upon exercise to purchase Additional Units in the amount of up to $30 million based on aggregate trading value benchmarks on the Common Shares. The Series Y Subscription Rights are over a 24 month period and are only exercisable if the Series X Subscription Rights are exercised otherwise they will immediately expire.
As per the Corporation's press release dated March 14, the Series X Subscription Rights and Series Y Subscription Rights were issued upon the terms provided in the subscription agreement and summarized in the Corporation's amended and restated prospectus dated December 6, 2013.
The obligations of the Investor under the Subscription Rights are subject to several conditions, including obtaining certain regulatory approvals, including TSX approval, and approval of the Corporation's shareholders prior to the exercise of the Series Y Subscription Rights.
Orbite management will hold a conference call and provide a live audio webcast today, May 13, 2014 at 10 a.m. to discuss the Corporation's financials and provide an update on the Corporation's HPA project.
CONFERENCE CALL DETAILS:
Date: May 13, 2014
Time: 10 a.m. (EDT)
Dial in number: +1 (888) 231-8191 / +1 (647) 427-7450
Webcast: http://bit.ly/1o8xFVM
Taped replay: +1 (855) 859-2056
+1 (514) 807-9274
+1 (416) 849-0833
Available until 12:00 midnight (EDT), Monday, May 27, 2014
Reference number: 44095234
Notice to Reader
The information provided in this press release is entirely qualified by the disclosures in the Corporation's Financial Statements and Management Discussion & Analysis (MD&A) for the quarter ended March 31, 2014, which are available at www.orbitealuminae.com and under the Corporation's profile at www.sedar.com.
About Orbite
Orbite Aluminae Inc. is a Canadian cleantech company whose innovative and proprietary processes are expected to produce alumina and other high-value products, such as rare earth and rare metal oxides, at one of the lowest costs in the industry, and in a sustainable fashion, using feedstocks that include aluminous clay, kaolin, nepheline, bauxite, red mud and fly ash. Orbite is currently in the process of finalizing its first commercial high-purity alumina (HPA) production plant in Cap-Chat, Québec and has completed the basic engineering for a proposed smelter-grade alumina (SGA) production plant, which would use clay mined from its Grande-Vallée deposit. The Corporation's intellectual property portfolio contains 15 intellectual property families, and the Corporation owns the intellectual property rights to 11 patents and 66 pending patent applications in 10 different countries and regions. The first intellectual property family is patented in Canada, USA, Australia, China, and Russia. The Corporation also operates a state of the art technology development center in Laval, Québec, where its technologies are developed and validated.
Forward-looking statements
Certain information contained in this document may include "forward-looking information". Without limiting the foregoing, the information and any forward-looking information may include statements regarding projects, costs, objectives and future returns of the Corporation or hypotheses underlying these items. In this document, words such as "may", "would", "could", "will", "likely", "believe", "expect", "anticipate", "intend", "plan", "estimate" and similar words and the negative form thereof are used to identify forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements should not be read as guarantees of future performance or results, and will not necessarily be accurate indications of whether, or the times at or by which, such future performance will be achieved. Forward-looking statements and information are based on information available at the time and/or the Corporation management's good-faith beliefs with respect to future events and are subject to known or unknown risks, uncertainties, assumptions and other unpredictable factors, many of which are beyond the Corporation's control. These risks uncertainties and assumptions include, but are not limited to, those described in the section of the Management's Discussion and Analysis (MD&A) entitled "Risk and Uncertainties" as filed on May 13, 2014.
The Corporation does not intend, nor does it undertake, any obligation to update or revise any forward-looking information or statements contained in this document to reflect subsequent information, events or circumstances or otherwise, except as required by applicable laws.
TMX EQUICOM
Mark Lakmaaker, External Investor Relations Consultant
1-800-385-5451 ext. 248
mlakmaaker@tmxequicom.com
For Media Inquiries:
TMX EQUICOM
Shaun Smith, External Media Relations Consultant
1-800-385-5451, ext. 252
ssmith@tmxequicom.com
nagoya1
11 years ago
Orbite Provides Update on Financing
Date : 04/09/2014 @ 9:03AM
Source : Marketwired
Stock : Orbite Aluminae, Inc. (QX) (EORBF)
Quote : 0.2515 0.0 (0.00%) @ 4:08PM
Orbite Provides Update on Financing
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Orbite Provides Update on Financing
MONTREAL, QUEBEC--(Marketwired - Apr 9, 2014) - Orbite Aluminae Inc. (TSX:ORT)(OTCQX:EORBF) ("Orbite" or the "Corporation"), a cleantech company currently commercializing its high-purity alumina process, today provided a general update on its previously announced financing activities.
The change in provincial government resulting from the April 7, 2014 elections in Québec, is not expected to have any impact on the financing presently being finalized with Investissement Québec. The finalization of the equity investment by the Government of Québec continues to proceed as planned, as communicated in Orbite's March 27 general update press release.
Additionally, in accordance with the subscription agreement between Orbite and Crede Capital Group, LLC ("Crede"), Orbite issued Series X and Y Subscription Rights on March 11, 2014, as announced previously. Once exercisable, the Series X Subscription Rights require Crede to purchase $10 million of debentures of the Corporation. Orbite expects to obtain qualification by prospectus and have the units exercisable around May 15, 2014, subject to regulatory approval.
The Series Y Subscription Rights will first become exercisable on October 10, 2014. Terms and conditions for the Series X and Y subscription rights and the related debentures are provided in the subscription agreement and summarized in the Corporation's amended and restated prospectus dated December 6, 2013.
About Orbite
Orbite Aluminae Inc. is a Canadian cleantech company that has developed innovative and proprietary processes, which the Company expects to produce alumina and other high-value by-products, such as rare earth and rare metal oxides, at one of the lowest costs in the industry, and in a sustainable fashion, using feedstocks that include aluminous clay, kaolin, nepheline, bauxite, red mud and fly ash. Orbite is currently finalizing its first commercial high-purity alumina (HPA) production plant in Cap-Chat, Québec, and has completed the basic engineering for a proposed smelter-grade alumina (SGA) production plant, which would use clay mined from its Grande-Vallée deposit. The Corporation's intellectual property portfolio contains 15 intellectual property families, and the Corporation owns the intellectual property rights to 11 patents and 57 pending patent applications in 10 different countries and regions. The first intellectual property family is patented in Canada, USA, Australia, China, and Russia. The Company also operates a state of the art technology development center in Laval, Québec, where its technologies are developed and validated.
Forward-looking statements
Certain information contained in this document may include "forward-looking information". Without limiting the foregoing, forward-looking information may include statements regarding projects, costs, objectives and future returns of the Corporation or hypotheses underlying these items. In this document, words such as "may", "would", "could", "will", "likely", "believe", "expect", "anticipate", "intend", "plan", "estimate" and similar words and the negative form thereof are used to identify forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements should not be read as guarantees of future performance or results, and will not necessarily be accurate indications of whether, or the times at or by which, such future performance will be achieved. Forward-looking statements and information are based on information available at the time and/or the Corporation management's good-faith beliefs with respect to future events and are subject to known or unknown risks, uncertainties, assumptions and other unpredictable factors, many of which are beyond the Corporation's control. These risks uncertainties and assumptions include, but are not limited to, those described in the section of the Management's Discussion and Analysis (MD&A) entitled "Risk and Uncertainties" as filed on March 17, 2014 on www.sedar.com.
The Corporation does not intend, nor does it undertake, any obligation to update or revise any forward-looking information or statements contained in this document to reflect subsequent information, events or circumstances or otherwise, except as required by applicable laws.
TMX EQUICOM
Mark Lakmaaker, External Investor Relations Consultant
1-800-385-5451 ext. 248
mlakmaaker@tmxequicom.com
For Media Inquiries:
TMX EQUICOM
Shaun Smith, External Media Relations Consultant
1- 800-385-5451, ext. 252
ssmith@tmxequicom.com
nagoya1
11 years ago
Orbite Updates Construction of HPA Facility
Date : 03/17/2014 @ 8:50AM
Source : Marketwired
Stock : Orbite Aluminae, Inc. (QX) (EORBF)
Quote : 0.335 0.0193 (6.11%) @ 5:00PM
Orbite Updates Construction of HPA Facility
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Orbite Updates Construction of HPA Facility
MONTREAL, QUEBEC--(Marketwired - Mar 17, 2014) - Orbite Aluminae Inc. (TSX:ORT)(OTCQX:EORBF) ("Orbite" or the "Corporation"), today provides its second update on the construction and optimization activities of its high purity alumina ("HPA") production facility located in Cap-Chat, Québec.
As communicated in its January 29 HPA project update, Orbite had commenced the design review and detailed engineering with Seneca, as well as project management and control activities with Groupe Alphard. Orbite continues to work towards a 12 month execution timeline, with commissioning in December 2014 and commercial operations to commence in January 2015. Full production capacity at 3 tpd is anticipated for Q1 2015.
Glenn Kelly, CEO of Orbite, stated, "We are pleased with the progress made to date on our HPA project at Cap-Chat. Several project elements, such as the design review, have now been completed. We are on schedule and are progressing well towards our twelve month execution timeline. Additionally, following positive calcination and decomposition testing results with potential suppliers in Asia and Europe, we have been able to conclude negotiations and selected Outotec to deliver the new calcination system. The unit is expected to arrive in August, slightly ahead of our earlier communicated schedule."
Progress to date is as follows:
Cap-Chat Operations
Operating conditions for the HPA purification steps were optimized through a series of tests at Orbite's Technology Development Center ("TDC").
The HPA facility is completing a production campaign, where optimized operating conditions, developed at the TDC, were tested and validated. The new operating parameters will be incorporated into the detailed facility design.
Preliminary results are very promising (quality, process conditions and productivity) and are in line with pilot testing done at the TDC.
The product will be used to supply sample sets for evaluation by potential customers.
Engineering
Seneca has finalized the mass and energy balances, project scope definition and the design basis.
Seneca has also completed a survey of Orbite's installations at its Cap-Chat facility to evaluate changes needed, such as equipment modification/relocation, and infrastructure capacities (electricity, steam, cooling water, and building ventilation).
P&IDs (Piping & Instrumentation Diagrams) review is completed and will be issued for design.
Project Management
Alphard has completed the work break-down structure to align budget, schedule and cost tracking.
Calcination equipment installation, sequence and schedule has been optimized and the general project schedule has been refined as follows;
Detailed Engineering Completed - May
Issue of Procurement and Construction packages for bid - June
Start of Construction - July
Calcination System Delivery - August
Plant commissioning including cold and hot start up - November and December
Commercial Operations - January
Procurement
HPA decomposition and calcination tests were completed at two calciner system supplier piloting centers in Europe and Asia.
Based upon technical & economic evaluation of both offers, Outotec of Germany was selected as the preferred supplier and the supply contract has been awarded.
About Outotec
Outotec provides leading technologies and services for the sustainable use of Earth's natural resources. As the global leader in minerals and metals processing technology, Outotec has developed many breakthrough technologies over the decades. The company also provides innovative solutions for industrial water treatment, the utilization of alternative energy sources and the chemical industry. Outotec shares are listed on NASDAQ OMX Helsinki. www.outotec.com
About Orbite
Orbite Aluminae Inc. is a Canadian cleantech company who's innovative and proprietary processes are expected to produce alumina and other high-value by-products, such as rare earth and rare metal oxides, at one of the lowest costs in the industry, and in a sustainable fashion, using feedstocks that include aluminous clay, kaolin, nepheline, bauxite, red mud and fly ash. Orbite is currently finalizing its first commercial high-purity alumina (HPA) production plant in Cap-Chat, Québec and has completed the basic engineering for a proposed smelter-grade alumina (SGA) production plant, which would use clay mined from its Grande-Vallée deposit. The Corporation's intellectual property portfolio contains 15 intellectual property families, and the Corporation owns the intellectual property rights to 11 patents and 57 pending patent applications in 10 different countries and regions. The first intellectual property family is patented in Canada, USA, Australia, China, and Russia. The Company also operates a state of the art technology development center in Laval, Québec, where its technologies are developed and validated.