Shenfein
11 years ago
InvestorIntel: Advancing 'Mine-to-Metal' vision -- Great Western Minerals Group Makes Significant Progress De-risking One of the Most Robust REE Deposits in the World
Newsfile Corp via CMTX - Tue Oct 22, 8:31AM CDT
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Tracy Weslosky, Publisher and Editor-in-Chief of InvestorIntel, interviews Marc LeVier, President and CEO for Great Western Minerals Group Ltd. (TSXV: GWG) (OTCQX: GWMGF), discusses the just-released metallurgical update on Great Western Minerals' South African Steenkampskraal Rare Earth Project, as well as provides an update on Great Western Mineral's wholly owned subsidiary, Less Common Metals Limited, the need for a secure line of high-quality sustainable REEs, and some of the competitive advantages Great Western Minerals offers. GWMG is a leader in the manufacture and supply of rare earth-based alloys and high purity metals with a low-cost, high-grade critical rare earth asset. Its specialty alloys are used in the battery, magnet and aerospace industries. Produced at Great Western Minerals' wholly owned subsidiaries, Less Common Metals Limited in the UK and Great Western Technologies Inc. in Troy, Michigan, these alloys contain transition metals, including nickel, cobalt, iron and other rare earth elements. As part of the Company's vertical integration strategy, GWMG also holds 100% equity ownership in Rare Earth Extraction Co. Limited, which controls the former-producing Steenkampskraal monazite mine. Great Western Minerals' objective is to become a best-in-class developer and sustainable producer of critical rare earths through GWMG's fully integrated mine-to-metal business model.
Tracy starts by asking Marc to discuss the very robust highlights from Great Western Minerals' latest announcement. "We started the metallurgical testing in the first quarter of this year. We wanted to go back and ensure we were testing all of our various options, available to us, in treating this monazite mineralogy. The biggest issue is ensuring that you have fully investigated any process development technology options available to you - and that's what we've been working on," explained LeVier.
Commenting on its subsidiary Less Common Metals, LeVier stated: "Less Common Metals is a world-class metal alloy facility that's an integral part of our vision: mine to metal. Less Common Metals allows us to use the latest technology in making metal alloy that we provide to our customers in Europe and Japan, particularly neodymium, iron and boron metal alloy. When it comes to rare earth production, LeVier says, "It all boils down to - whether it's us or anybody else - where are you going to get the material (the metal) to feed into that furnace to make the alloy? And at what price? You can buy it all day long from China at an elevated price. We have to buy it and be able to make a profit. Obviously, that's the challenge. That's the reason for having a secure supply line of a high-quality sustainable feed, such as we would achieve with Steenkampskraal."
In closing, Tracy asked Marc to discuss some of Great Western Minerals' additional competitive advantages. "I'd like to reemphasize that - regardless of where we are in the process and our studies - I want everybody to remember one thing, this is still an extremely robust project," said LeVier. "It's the highest TREO grade, run-of-mine material in the world. It's the right-sized business model. The high grade allows to us process 150 tonnes per day, which is nowhere near any other project. That processing rate means that we are able to maintain a very low capital requirement and, at the same time, produce very high quality, 5,000 tonnes per annum of TREO concentrate. Those are the values that everyone needs to focus on and remember, because this project's going to go. This is one that needs to be developed. It needs to be in production for the rest of the world's supply."
Shenfein
11 years ago
Great Western Minerals Provides Metallurgical Update on Steenkampskraal Project
SASKATOON, SK, Canada, October 7, 2013 – Great Western Minerals Group Ltd. ("GWMG" or the "Company") (TSX.V: GWG / OTCQX: GWMGF), a leader in the manufacture and supply of rare earth–based metal alloys and high purity metals with a low cost, high-grade critical rare earth asset, provided an update on metallurgical advances on the Steenkampskraal ("SKK") rare earth project.
Company President and CEO Marc LeVier stated, "We continue to make significant progress in de-risking the SKK project. The metallurgical testing is providing positive data with regard to the design criteria and flow sheet development and has validated assumptions in the PEA. We have confirmed the value of pre-concentration techniques and testing has shown there is an opportunity to simplify the flow sheet. This will allow for improved process efficiency and lower operating costs. The development work continues to demonstrate that the SKK project is one of the most robust REE deposits in the world with very low capital requirements supported by very high TREO grades."
In 2013, the Company divided the metallurgical testing into three phases and, to date, has completed phase one and significantly advanced phase two. Test work is progressing and is expected to be completed in the fourth quarter of 2013. The current testing program in respect of optimization is being conducted by GWMG staff, along with Mintek in South Africa and the Saskatchewan Research Council in Saskatoon.
Phase 1: Metallurgical Flow Sheet Development Testing
TESTWORK PERFORMED
HIGHLIGHTS
X-ray Fluorescence (XRF) and
X-ray Transmission ( XRT)
•XRF sorting results were promising, but had limited applicability
•XRT sorting demonstrated that 28% of overall mass can be rejected as waste with less than 2% total rare earth oxide (“TREO”) loss
Gravity separation techniques
•Shaking tables and spirals eliminated from consideration due to poor test results
•Dense media separation (DMS) testing demonstrated that 43% of the feed weight can be rejected as waste with less than 1% TREO loss
Magnetic separation techniques
•Low intensity magnetic separation test results indicated limited mass reduction and significant TREO loss
•Dry high intensity magnetic separation resulted in improved TREO recoveries with mass reduction in the range of 15%
Monazite flotation
•Rougher flotation recovered up to 97% of TREO with a concentrate grade of 41% TREO
•Rougher concentrate grade was further upgraded to greater than 48% TREO with the flotation recovery of 89%
Phase 2: Evaluation of Hydrometallurgical Processing of Monazite Concentrates
TESTWORK PERFORMED
HIGHLIGHTS
Chemical beneficiation
•Nitric acid treatment on the monazite flotation concentrate improved the TREO grade to 53%
Cracking options: caustic
and sulphuric acid
•Caustic cracking of a run of mine sample followed by acid leach demonstrated that a TREO extraction of approximately 80% can be achieved
•When a monazite flotation concentrate with a 41% TREO grade was treated in a similar manner, a TREO extraction of 89% was obtained
•Test work continues to refine the process to improve extractions
Purification
•Hydrometallurgical testing demonstrated that radium, thorium and other radioactive components can be selectively removed from the leach solutions
•Solution purification testing is continuing to evaluate different methodologies
Phase 3: Optimization and Finalization of Process Design
TESTWORK PERFORMED
HIGHLIGHTS
Optimization and finalization
•Metallurgical testing continues to optimize the process design parameters for the selection of the final flow sheet and the completion of an NI 43-101 compliant feasibility study
•Numerous flow sheet schemes have been evaluated and reduced to five overall processes. Further testing will reduce the options to the final flow sheet selection for the feasibility study which is in progress
Qualified Person Statement
Baodong Zhao (PhD, P.Eng.), Vice-President, Metallurgy of GWMG, is the Qualified Person (as defined under National Instrument 43-101) responsible for supervising the preparation of the technical content of this news release.
About GWMG
Great Western Minerals Group Ltd. is a leader in the manufacture and supply of rare earth–based alloys and high purity metals with a low cost, high-grade critical rare earth asset. Its specialty alloys are used in the battery, magnet and aerospace industries. Produced at the Company’s wholly-owned subsidiaries, Less Common Metals Limited in Ellesmere Port, U.K. and Great Western Technologies Inc. in Troy, Michigan, these alloys contain transition metals, including nickel, cobalt, iron and other rare earth elements. As part of the Company's vertical integration strategy, GWMG also holds 100% equity ownership in Rare Earth Extraction Co. Limited, which controls the Steenkampskraal monazite mine in South Africa. The Company also holds interests in four rare earth exploration properties in North America that are not active.
The Company routinely posts news and other information on its website at www.gwmg.ca.
For more information contact:
Investor Relations:
Shenfein
11 years ago
Great Western Minerals Q2: production doubles as SKK advances
Thu 3:22 pm by Fiona MacDonald
Meanwhile, at the Steenkampskraal project exploration and evaluation expenses dropped to $1.0 million from $2.4 million during the quarter, reflecting the company’s focus on moving beyond the exploration drilling work carried out a year ago to feasibility study activities including engineering and metallurgical test work. Meanwhile, at the Steenkampskraal project exploration and evaluation expenses dropped to $1.0 million from $2.4 million during the quarter, reflecting the company’s focus on moving beyond the exploration drilling work carried out a year ago to feasibility study activities including engineering and metallurgical test work.
Great Western Minerals Group Ltd. (CVE:GWG), announced increased revenue on production that more than doubled as the in quarterly results released aftermarket Wednesday as the as the rare earths processor advances plans to become a producer of the metals.
For the three months ended June 30 the Saskatoon-based manufacturer and supplier of rare earth-based alloys and high purity metals posted a net loss of $9.5 million for a loss of 2.3 cents per basic and fully diluted share, compared to the year ago loss of $3.25 million for a loss of .8 of a cent per basic and fully diluted share.
Revenue was up by 25 per cent, for a total of $4.5 million in the quarter compared to the $3.6 million posted a year ago, revenue primarily attributable to the company’s production subsidiary Less Common Metals Limited.
The uptick in revenue reflects more than double production from the subsidiary on the back of with the completion of the move to the new facility and installation of two new strip cast furnaces. In the quarter just past, the company sold 69 metric tonnes of alloys compared with 33 metric tonnes of alloys for the same period in 2012. The change in volume was partially offset by lower prices, as average prices for alloys have decreased in the range of 16 per cent to 20 per cent year-over-year.
Alloy volumes are anticipated to increase during the remainder of the calendar year as a result of the added manufacturing capacity, though the ability to obtain the necessary rare earth materials at competitive pricing in order to produce alloys may be a limiting factor.
The rare earths processor, which is transitioning to a fully integrated rare earths producer, makes specialty alloys used in the magnet, battery, defence and aerospace industries from two facilities in the U.S. and U.K. Its development program at its Steenkampskraal rare earth mine in South Africa, which includes a restart of the historical mine, is central for a strong flow of feedstock for its downstream processing unit.
The continued pursuit of raw material and the expansion of the company’s customer base were both outlined as among the company’s specific near-term objectives.
Meanwhile, at the Steenkampskraal project exploration and evaluation expenses dropped to $1.0 million from $2.4 million during the quarter, reflecting the company’s focus on moving beyond the exploration drilling work carried out a year ago to feasibility study activities including engineering and metallurgical test work.
“Work continues” on the project, said president and CEO Marc LeVier on a conference call following the release of the project update, with the plant remaining on care and maintenance to reduce cash outlays, with an expectation that exploration drilling will be completed by year’s end with the goal of a feasibility study by the first quarter of 2014.
The CEO emphasized that the high grade of the project -- “one of the highest grades available for development” – meant that the processing plant at the project could be smaller, which, when coupled with the fact that the site is in an existing mine location would be critical in keeping development costs for the project down to below $200 million, making it “one of the least expensive [projects] to invest in out there for rare earths.
Work carried out in the quarter included a combined airborne magnetic and radiometric survey that covered more than 55 km2, which, when combined with a desk top study, field studies and sampling identified 47 radiometric anomalies that the company is continuing to review with the expectation of identifying priority target.
The company expects to complete the feasibility study, intended to further de-risk the project and improve the accuracy of capital requirements in the first quarter of next year. The plan is to include a detailed mine plan, metallurgical process development and optimization, geological models and plant design.
"We continue to make progress with our near term objectives,” said LeVier in a company statement released with the figures.
“During the quarter, we vertically integrated our production capabilities as we began the development and testing phase of making neodymium metal from oxide using an electrolytic reduction process. This is significant as it will increase our raw feed material source options as we aim to utilize our recent capacity upgrades. At SKK, we initiated work for a feasibility study which is expected to wrap up in the first quarter of 2014. Also, many compliance and restoration activities that are required prior to initiating production are taking place and being completed."
Great Western holds 100 percent equity ownership in Rare Earth Extraction Co., which controls the Steenkampskraal mine.
Shares in the company were trading down the day of the release of figures, losing 1.5 cents on the TSX Ventures Exchange to hit 13.5 cents per share as of 12.17 pm EST.
Ninja Trades
11 years ago
Great Western Minerals Successfully Produces Neodymium Metal
Less Common Metals ("LCM") vertically integrates upstream production capabilities with electrolytic cell process
LCM also completed the installation of the second strip casting furnace and is producing qualified alloys for customer orders
SASKATOON, July 11, 2013 /PRNewswire/ - Great Western Minerals Group Ltd. ("GWMG" or the "Company") (TSX.V: GWG / OTCQX: GWMGF), a leader in the manufacture and supply of rare earth-based metal alloys and high purity metals with a low cost, high-grade critical rare earth asset (the "Steenkampskraal Project" or "SKK"), today announced that its subsidiary, Less Common Metals Limited, has successfully produced neodymium metal from oxide using an electrolytic reduction process. LCM ran the new electrolytic cell in full production mode meeting all environmental, health and safety compliance standards.
"This very successful production run follows our extensive engineering design and technical studies," stated Ian Higgins, Managing Director of LCM.? "Importantly, this is one of only a few examples of electrolytic metal production outside of China.? This capability enables us to expand discussions with raw material and consumable suppliers."
LCM has invested in electrolytic cells during the past year to increase its metal production capabilities in addition to its metal alloy production capabilities. This was LCM's first production level operating trial using an electrolytic reduction process and it met expectations. As part of an ongoing integrated expansion process, a second electrolytic cell is already installed and provides the platform for increased capacity.?????
LCM has focused on ensuring that processes fully comply with the highest possible levels of environmental, health and safety standards. In support of this commitment, LCM has engaged key academic institutions in Europe to further optimize its processes.
Photographs of the neodymium metal production are located on the Company's website at www.gwmg.caLCMphotos.
LCM Commences Operation of Second Strip Casting Furnace
A second strip casting furnace that was delivered in the first quarter of 2013 was recently installed and is now producing alloy for customer orders.? The new furnace increased production capacity by 700 tonnes to a total of 2,500 tonnes of metal alloy per year.
About GWMG
Great Western Minerals Group Ltd. is a leader in the manufacture and supply of rare earth-based alloys and high purity metals with a low cost, high-grade critical rare earth asset.? Its specialty alloys are used in the battery, magnet and aerospace industries.? Produced at the Company's wholly-owned subsidiaries, Less Common Metals Limited in Ellesmere Port, U.K. and Great Western Technologies Inc. in Troy, Michigan, these alloys contain transition metals, including nickel, cobalt, iron and other rare earth elements.? As part of the Company's vertical integration strategy, GWMG also holds 100% equity ownership in Rare Earth Extraction Co. Limited, which controls the Steenkampskraal monazite mine.? In addition to the project at Steenkampskraal, GWMG also holds interests in four rare earth exploration and development properties in North America.
The company routinely posts news and other information on its website at www.gwmg.ca.
Neither the TSX Venture Exchange nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in the policies of the TSX Venture Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release.
Cautionary Statement
Certain information set out in this News Release constitutes forward-looking information.? Forward-looking statements (often, but not always, identified by the use of words such as "expect", "may", "could", "anticipate" or "will" and similar expressions) may describe expectations, opinions or guidance that are not statements of fact and which may be based upon information provided by third parties. Forward-looking statements are based upon the opinions, expectations and estimates of management of GWMG as at the date the statements are made and are subject to a variety of known and unknown risks and uncertainties and other factors that could cause actual events or outcomes to differ materially from those anticipated or implied by such forward-looking statements. Those factors include, but are not limited to the assumptions and estimates in the preliminary economic assessment of the Steenkampskraal project proving to be accurate over time; the construction, commissioning and operation of the proposed monazite processing facility and separation facility within? estimated parameters; mine refurbishment activities; reliance on third parties to meet projected timelines and commencement of production at Steenkampskraal; risks related to the receipt of all required approvals including those relating to the commencement of production at the Steenkampskraal mine, delays in obtaining permits, licenses and operating authorities in Canada, South Africa and China, environmental matters, water and land use risks; risks associated with the industry in general, commodity prices and exchange rate changes, operational risks associated with exploration, development and production operations, delays or changes in plans, including those estimated in the preliminary economic assessment of the Steenkampskraal project; risks associated with the uncertainty of resource estimates; health and safety risks; uncertainty of estimates and projections of production, costs and expenses; risks that future Steenkampskraal and region exploration results may not meet exploration or corporate objectives; the adequacy of the Company's financial resources and the availability of additional cash from operations or from financing on reasonable terms or at all; political risks inherent in South Africa and China; risks associated with the relationship between GWMG and/or its subsidiaries and communities and governments in Canada and South Africa, radioactivity and related issues, dependence on one mineral project; loss of, and the inability to attract, key personnel; the factors discussed in the Company's public disclosure record; and other factors that could cause actions, events or results not to be as anticipated. In light of the risks and uncertainties associated with forward-looking statements, readers are cautioned not to place undue reliance upon forward-looking information. Although GWMG believes that the expectations reflected in the forward-looking statements set out in this press release or incorporated herein by reference are reasonable, it can give no assurance that such expectations will prove to have been correct. Except as required by law, GWMG does not assume any obligation to update forward looking statements as set out in this news release. The forward-looking statements of GWMG contained in this News Release, or incorporated herein by reference, are expressly qualified, in their entirety, by this cautionary statement and the risk factors contained in GWMG's Annual Information Form available at www.sedar.com.
SOURCE Great Western Minerals Group Ltd.
Copyright 2013 PR Newswire
Hockmir
12 years ago
Great Western Minerals Group announces an increase in the mineral resource estimate on Steenkampskraal rare earth deposit
SASKATOON, Jan. 21, 2013 /PRNewswire/ - Great Western Minerals Group Ltd. ("GWMG" or the "Company", TSX:V - GWG) today announced that its updated National Instrument 43-101 resource estimate and technical report (the "NI 43-101 Report") shows a significant increase in the mineral resource (both Indicated and Inferred categories) compared to the Company's previously released NI 43-101 report of May 18, 2012.
The updated NI 43-101 Report, which has been prepared by Snowden Mining Industry Consultants Inc. ("Snowden") for the Company's Steenkampskraal rare earth property located in the Western Cape of South Africa, is dated effective December 15, 2012 and will be filed and available under the Company's SEDAR profile at www.sedar.com within 45 days.
Highlights:
A mineral resource estimate of 32,000 metric tonnes of total rare earth oxides plus yttrium oxide ("TREO") under the Indicated category and 42,100 metric tonnes of TREO under the Inferred category, each using a 1% TREO cut-off grade (the "Resource Estimate").
The new results demonstrate the success of GWMG's exploration programs at Steenkampskraal with a 114% increase in the Indicated Resource and a 218% increase in the Inferred Resource as compared to May of 2012.
The drilling program continues at Steenkampskraal with goals of: expanding the Resource Estimate; increasing the confidence in the geological model, upgrading the categories of reported resources; providing technical data for mine planning; and to check for mineralisation in those areas of the property where the concentrator and other infrastructure facilities will be located.
The core logging and assay results of 55 completed drillholes remain to be evaluated and reported in a future update.
Resource Estimate
This Resource Estimate, which incorporates and supersedes that reported on May 31, 2012, indicates a significant increase in tonnage of the deposit primarily as a function of increased drilling along strike to the East (as shown in Table 1, below). The Resource Estimate includes the historic mine area (the "Monazite Mine Area"), the exploration areas to the east and west of the past producing Monazite Mine Area (the "EXP Area") and the upper and lower tailings dams.
Table 1: Updated Mineral Resource Estimate for Steenkampskraal at a 1% cut-off grade (as of October 31, 2012)
Updated Resource Estimate1 Monazite Tonnes Average
TREO% Contained
TREO tonnes LREO2
tonnes HREO2
tonnes
Monazite Mine Area
Indicated 71,500 23.0 16,400 15,200 1,260
Inferred 95,800 17.1 16,400 15,100 1,270
EXP Area
Indicated 68,200 18.1 12,400 11,400 970
Inferred 181,000 14.2 25,600 23,500 2,100
Upper Tailings
Indicated 8,000 9.3 700 700 60
Inferred 1,200 7.5 100 100 10
Lower Tailings
Indicated 28,600 8.8 2,500 2,300 210
Inferred 0 0 0 0
Category Totals for Updated
Resource
Indicated 176,000 18.2 32,000 29,600 2,500
Inferred 278,000 15.2 42,100 38,700 3,400
Previous (May 2012) estimate
Total (Monazite Mine Area,
Upper and Lower Tailings)
Indicated 82,090 16.8 13,800 12,700 1,100
Inferred 87,160 16.2 14,100 13,100 1,100
(1) For the updated Resource Estimate, "tonnes" and "grades" were rounded to 3 significant figures. Apparent errors may occur due to rounding.
(2) "LREO" means lanthanum (La2O3), cerium (CeO2), praseodymium (Pr6O11), neodymium (Nd2O3) and samarium (Sm2O3). "HREO" means europium (Eu2O3), gadolinium (Gd2O3), terbium (Tb4O7), dysprosium (Dy2O3), holmium (Ho2O3), thulium (Tm2O3), ytterbium (Yb2O3) lutetium (Lu2O3) and yttrium (Y2O3).
The additional drilling completed since May of 2012 has provided significantly more density measurements which has yielded an increase in the calculated average specific gravity of the deposit from 3.23 g/cm3 to 3.50 g/cm3.
Table 2 shows a summary of individual REO results for the in-situ Mine and EXP Areas, which were the focus of the updated Resource Estimate. Complete Resource Estimate results for individual REOs will be available in the NI 43-101 Report once filed on SEDAR.
Table 2: Updated Mineral Resource Estimate of REO Percentage for the Mine and EXP Areas at Steenkampskraal using a 1% cut-off grade (as of October 31, 2012)
Area Resource
Category Y2O3
% La2O3
% CeO2
% Pr6O11
% Nd2O3
% Sm2O3
% Eu2O3
% Gd2O3
% Tb4O7
% Dy2O3
% Ho2O3
% Er2O3
% Tm2O3
% Yb2O3
% Lu2O3
%
Mine Indicated 0.91 4.780 10.500 1.180 4.100 0.643 0.014 0.436 0.052 0.221 0.033 0.065 0.006 0.025 0.003
Inferred 0.69 3.530 7.830 0.887 3.090 0.484 0.010 0.326 0.038 0.166 0.025 0.049 0.005 0.019 0.002
Exploration Indicated 0.73 3.820 8.130 0.926 3.310 0.513 0.011 0.357 0.042 0.174 0.026 0.052 0.005 0.020 0.002
Inferred 0.6 2.990 6.320 0.725 2.600 0.408 0.011 0.280 0.034 0.143 0.021 0.045 0.005 0.020 0.003
Indicated Total 0.83 4.311 9.343 1.056 3.714 0.580 0.012 0.397 0.047 0.198 0.030 0.059 0.006 0.023 0.002
Inferred Total 0.63 3.177 6.844 0.781 2.770 0.434 0.011 0.296 0.036 0.151 0.023 0.046 0.005 0.020 0.003
GWMG President and Chief Executive Officer Marc LeVier said, "The substantial increase in TREO tonnage from this Resource Estimate update significantly improves the economic potential of the Steenkampskraal Monazite Project. The resource update reported today will be incorporated into the Preliminary Economic Assessment that is being prepared concurrently. We expect the Steenkampskraal analysis will be bolstered further with the upcoming addition of a minimum of 55 drillholes for which assay work is currently in progress."
Geology and Mineralization
The Steenkampskraal mineralization consists of a narrow, shallow and irregular dipping (from 10o to 60o to the south), pinch and swell monazite vein which is exposed at surface as an east-west striking body (the "MMZ"). It has an average thickness of about 1.0 metre ("m"), varying from less than 20 centimetres ("cm") to 9.5m. The vein has been traced for a strike-length of just over 1,050m and a known southerly down-dip extension of up to 150m. The Resource Estimate covers a strike length of about 920m. The vein structure exhibits good lateral and vertical continuity. Mineralization is open on strike in both directions and down-dip below a depth of 130m along most of the strike length explored to date.
Mineralogical investigations indicate that the vein is composed predominantly of the mineral monazite, which accounts for more than 91% of total rare earth elements, with lesser amounts of rare earth element-bearing allanite, thorite, and xenotime. Alteration minerals are dominated by quartz, Fe-chlorite, magnetic Fe-oxide minerals, ilmenite, and sulphides including chalcopyrite, pyrite and galena. Vein material at Steenkampskraal contains from 0.4% to 46% TREO with the average grade typically dependent on the amount of diluting materials (such as quartz, feldspar, magnetite and sulphides) within the vein structure.
Exploration
The historic Steenkampskraal mine has been partially rehabilitated by GWMG and all three access levels and most of the old workings are open to geological and geotechnical investigations. Evaluation and exploration work from September 2011 to December 2012 consisted of surveying, mapping 67 underground channel samples and199 HQ and NQ surface drillholes totalling 23,305.31m within the Mine and the EXP Areas. In addition, GWMG undertook evaluation drilling and sampling of the historic tailings dams. The rock dump has also been sampled, but has not yet been included in the resource estimates.
The May, 2012 estimate reported on 40 initial evaluation and metallurgical drillholes from the Monazite Mine Area, the first two exploration drillholes in the EXP Area, and sampling of the tailings dams. Subsequent to this investigation, an additional 157 HQ and NQ size core holes were completed in the EXP Area. Of these, EXP Area drillholes STKEXP-003 to STKEXP-105 have been added to the geological model and Resource Estimate which form the basis for the current NI 43-101 Report. Drillhole survey information, intercept thicknesses, lithological descriptions, density measurements, scintillometer readings, and assay results for drillholes STKEXP-003 to STKEXP-067 are included in the current NI 43-101 Report, as well as similar information for drillholes STKEXP-068 to STKEXP-105 (other than assay results) which were received after the data cut-off date.
Of the 105 exploration drillholes (STKEXP-001 to STKEXP-105) reviewed by Snowden, 27 did not intersect the MMZ. The reported "misses" represent either drilling beyond the vein boundaries, or local areas of non-mineralization within the "pinch and swell" vein system. Drillhole fence lines are oriented along down-dip lines perpendicular to strike on nominal 25m to 50m line spacing, and 25m collar centers. The western, eastern and down-dip extensions of the MMZ remain open to date. Drillholes STKEXP-106 to STKEXP-159 will be included in a future report.
Quality Assurance / Quality Control ("QA/QC")
Caracle Creek International Consultants (Pty) Ltd ("CCIC") examined the assay data of the blanks, certified reference materials, and field duplicates to assess the reliability of the overall assay dataset, and to assist in the determination of the robustness of the resource estimation that has been carried out using the assay results. Addition of quality control samples for all core, channel and tailings samples amounts to 30% representing approximately 10% each for blanks, duplicates, and standard references. It was concluded by CCIC in general, that the addition of reference material and blanks to the Steenkampskraal sample batches was sufficiently adequate.
The validated database for the Resource Estimate includes information on 569 samples from 145 diamond drillholes of which 88 drillholes contained assay data using a September 2012 data cut-off date. Drill holes that did not contain assay data were included as they provided lithological information for the wireframe modelling and radiometric data was used for potential grade interpolation. The database also included information for 223 samples from a total of 67 underground channel sections and 270 tailings samples.
Table 3: Comparison of May 2012 and current databases used for the in-situ Resource Estimate
Sample
Type May 2012 Database Current Database
Number
Drilled/Cut Number
Sampled Number
Drilled/Cut Number
Sampled
Diamond Drill 107 44 145 88
Channel 67 59 67 67
Limited Grade Estimation using the Scintillometer / TREO% Relationship
REE-bearing minerals at Steenkampskraal have associated thorium and uranium content and subsequent radioactivity. Radiation measurements in counts per second using a Terraplus RS-125 Gamma Ray Spectrometer were acquired for all samples that were submitted for assay from 127 drillholes and 32 out of 67 channel samples.
There is a strong positive association (correlation coefficient of approximately 0.95) between TREO grade from assay results and radioactivity as defined using detailed scintillometer measurements. The linear formula generated by the correlation was subsequently applied to obtain an indicative TREO% in all drillholes that have been sampled, have radiometric measurements, and are awaiting assays.
In the absence of chemical assays, it is Snowden's considered opinion that because of the strong relationship between the scintillometer measurements and the TREO grades at Steenkampskraal, the application of the TREO-radioactivity correlation is sufficiently reliable to estimate "calculated and inferred" grades for the drillholes missing assay values at a low to moderate level of confidence, and that these values are suitable for use in the estimation of an Inferred Resource.
Modelling and Estimation Method
The mineralized zone wireframe, representing the MMZ, was generated using Leapfrog™ software after much verification work, based on drill intersections of the MMZ and guided by the available geological information. All of the assay intervals falling within the MMZ were composited to the dominant sample length of 0.5m.
Establishment of Block Models and Variography Analysis
The interior of the MMZ wireframe was populated with blocks measuring 10m by 10m by 0.5m using Datamine™ Studio version 3 software. Sub-blocking was used to provide for a more accurate volume determination; the smallest dimension for sub-blocks being 1.25 m by 1.25 m by 0.1 m. No rotation of blocks was applied as the strike and dip of the monazite was honoured through the small dimensions of sub-blocking.
Variograms were generated for each of the rare earth oxides ("REOs") as well as yttrium, thorium and uranium, and only using the assay data from the MMZ. Spherical, two structured, directional variogram models were used. Down-hole variograms were calculated and modelled to determine the nugget variance for the variogram models. The data occurring within the MMZ wireframes were combined for the three main zones to generate more robust variograms. The nugget, determined from the down-hole variogram, ranges from 28% to 35% of the total variance of the data. The variograms showed well developed structure and long ranges.
The combined block model (unclassified and depleted) comprises 8,358 indicative value estimated blocks out of 40,702 total blocks. None of the blocks estimated using the indicative data are reported as part of the Indicated Resource.
Grade Interpolation Parameters
Block grades for the individual REOs, yttrium, thorium and uranium were estimated using ordinary kriging. Four domains were delineated based on the location of major faults, and a small area of complexity characterized by bifurcation or interleaving of several monazite veins. The zones were estimated separately and individual block models combined for classification.
TREO%, LREO% and HREO% values, which were calculated for reporting by combining the estimated grades of the individual REOs, were also estimated in the block model as a check to ensure the preservation of the total package and for validation, but these were not reported.
The final block model was a combination of two estimates; initially using composited assay data to estimate the blocks, and secondarily using the composited assay data as well as composited radiometric generated indicative grades (from drill holes where mineralization was logged and sampled but awaiting assays).
Density values were estimated into the block model using the Inverse Distance ("ID") estimation method. ID was used because there were insufficient drillholes with density values to form structured variograms.
The block model was depleted for 'past production' using current survey information pertaining to the underground development and mined-out areas. This ensured that stopes and development workings were not included in the Resource Estimate.
Previous Resource Estimate for Tailings Dams
The Resource Estimate restates the resources in respect of the tailings dams, the results of which remain unchanged from the May 2012 estimate. A gridding approach was used to sample the tailings dams with sample holes at 10m spacing over the extent of the two tailings dams. Samples were collected on a per metre basis using a "Shelby tube" that was manually driven into the tailings to the base of the pile. The larger of the tailings dams contained material up to 2m thick and the smaller dam up to 4m thick. Sample material from each station, and each metre depth, were divided in a three level riffle-splitter to make representative sub-samples for independent grade analysis by SGS Canada and metallurgical studies by Mintek Analytical Services Division. This procedure was subject to the same QA/QC as for the drill core. The database of the tailings dams comprised information from 270 drill samples.
Qualified Persons
The NI 43-101 Report was prepared by Mr. Ivor Jones, (BSc. Hons), MSc, FAusIMM, CP Geo., the Group General Manager of Geosciences with Snowden. He contributed to and supervised the Resource Estimate for the main monazite deposit as well as the tailing dams. Mr. Jones consents to the inclusion in this news release of the matters based on his information in the form and context in which it appears. Mr. Jones has sufficient experience relevant to the type of deposit under consideration and to the activity which he is undertaking to qualify as a Qualified Person as defined under NI 43-101 - Standards of Disclosure for Mineral Projects ("NI 43-101") and supervised the preparation of the contents of the Resource Estimate section of this news release.
Snowden was assisted by Dr. John Hancox, Pr.Sci.Nat., of Caracle Creek International Consulting (Pty) Limited of Johannesburg. Dr. Hancox provided geological interpretations and the drillhole and underground channel sampling database for the Resource Estimate. Dr. Hancox has sufficient experience relevant to the style of mineralization and type of deposit under consideration and to the activity which he is undertaking to qualify as a Qualified Person as defined under NI 43-101 and supervised the preparation of the contents of the geology, exploration, and data assurance sections of this news release. Dr. Hancox consents to the inclusion in this news release of the matters based on his information in the form and context in which it appears.
Brent C. Jellicoe, B.Sc. (Hon.), P.Geo., Director of International Exploration for GWMG, is the Qualified Person responsible for supervising the preparation of the technical content of this news release.
Hockmir
12 years ago
GWMG Corporate Update: GWMG Expands Scope of PEA, Retains Q4 2012 Release
Corporate Update – As at October 31, 2012
“GWMG Expands Scope of PEA, Retains Q4 2012 Release Target”
Great Western Minerals Group Ltd. (”GWMG” or the “Company”) Corporate Holdings:
· 1 Former producing mine: Steenkampskraal mine in South Africa: Under development.
· 1 Rare earth mixed chloride plant at Steenkampskraal: Under development.
· 1 Rare earth solvent extraction separation plant near Steenkampskraal: Under development.
· 2 Rare earth alloy manufacturing plants: Less Common Metals Limited (“LCM”) in Birkenhead, U.K. and Great Western Technologies Inc. (“GWTI”) in Troy, Michigan: In operation.
· 5 Rare earth exploration projects: 1 at Steenkampskraal, 4 in North America.
Preliminary Economic Assessment:
In line with previous guidance, GWMG remains committed to release a Preliminary Economic Assessment (“PEA”) during the 4th Quarter of 2012. The purpose of the PEA is to further develop and communicate operational and financial projections for the Company’s complete corporate structure based on independent analysis of the mining of rare earth-bearing monazite, extraction to mixed chloride, separation of oxides, and metal and alloy production.
Subsequent to that announcement, the Company has instructed its PEA consultants, Snowden Mining Industry Consultants (Pty) Ltd. ("Snowden") of Johannesburg, South Africa, to extend the original scope of the PEA work to include a new resource estimate for the area of mineralization identified by the Company’s Steenkampskraal exploration activities in recent months. The Company anticipates this initiative could result in additional National Instrument 43-101-compliant Inferred and Indicated resource tonnages. The Company will then add this to the provisional mine plan to determine to what extent it could extend the potential life of mine.
The Company expects that even with the expanded scope of work under the PEA, its 4th Quarter 2012 release target will be achieved.
Steenkampskraal Exploration:
On September 18, 2012, GWMG reported on assays varying from 0.02 to 45.81 weight percent ("wt.%") Total Rare Earth Oxides ("TREO") with an average of 17.74 wt.% TREO from underground channel, resource drill hole and exploration drill hole assays. Within the drill program that was reported, covering 83 drill holes, true thickness varied from 0.02 metres to 6.67 metres and averaged 0.92 metres.
As of October 18, 2012, GWMG has now completed 106 drill holes over a total of 12,634.29 metres. Assay results will continue to be released once analyzed. Shipments of samples to SGS Laboratories of Johannesburg, South Africa are ongoing and as a result the Company expects that the Steenkampskraal drill program will continue to produce assay results subsequent to the cut-off point for inclusion in the updated resource estimate that is included in the upcoming PEA.
Steenkampskraal Surface Refurbishment:
GWMG has recently completed additional work on surface facilities at Steenkampskraal as it prepares for administration and mining activity at the Steenkampskraal site. These include:
· An updated survey has been conducted by the Radiation Protection Officer and his team in preparation for zoning for the start of construction of the mixed chloride plant.
· The offices near the Steenkampskraal entrance gate are now fully functional.
· The scrap yard has been cleared up with scrap sorted into various classifications.
· The surface soil around the old slimes residues has been remodeled to prevent potential radiation migration.
· The old building ruins that had been in place since mining activities in the 1960’s have been cleared.
· The regular watering of roads in, and to, the Steenkampskraal site, using water from the reverse osmosis water treatment plant, has led to significantly reduced levels of dust generation.
· The wash down area for vehicles, the new gate house and weigh bridge are now installed.
Steenkampskraal Underground Refurbishment:
GWMG has also completed several underground refurbishment steps as it prepares for mining activity at the Steenkampskraal site. These include:
· A new ventilation system with a set of three fans is being installed near the top of the decline for purposes of pulling air underground through the mine. Ingress of fresh air will be through the decline as well as through the vertical secondary exit shaft.
· The new ropes, winder and head gear will undergo commissioning trials early in 2013.
Mixed Chloride Plant:
As noted in GWMG’s Corporate Update of August 30, 2012, the position of the mixed chloride plant at the Steenkampskraal site has been finalized after sterilization drilling at the first two locations found significant monazite mineralization beneath them. The geotechnical work as well as the radioactivity survey at the area of the site that has been chosen for the planned 5,000 tonnes per annum mixed chloride plant is now complete.
Evaluation of long-lead items and time-critical project components is underway. In addition, design work has begun for the installation of tanks, pumps, dispensing, pipework and blending equipment that will be needed to accept deliveries of commercial chemicals at the mixed chloride plant. The Company has selected DRA Group of South Africa as the contractor on the current work program.
Solvent Extraction Separation Plant:
The preliminary layouts for the solvent extraction separation plant have been completed in China. GWMG will now continue to develop those plans according to South African construction and operations standards.
The solvent extraction separation plant project is being overseen by GWMG Vice-President Metallurgy Baodong Zhao, Technical Consultant Xinbin Rui, Rare Earth Extraction Co. Ltd. (“Rareco”) Technical Manager Witker Zimba, GWMG Vice-President Operations Richard Hogan and Rareco Operations General Manager Vic Fitzmaurice.
Corporate:
The CEO recruitment process continues to work toward the appointment of the Company’s new Chief Executive Officer within the previously stated target of 2012. The Search Committee, consisting of Interim CEO Robert Quinn, and independent Directors Bill McKnight, George Ireland and Ian McNaughton, reports that high quality candidates who are attracted to a unique, multi-faceted, high growth opportunity have displayed a very strong interest in the position. The Search Committee is working with Korn/Ferry International, a global executive recruitment agency which has conducted in excess of 10,000 senior-level searches worldwide, in the selection phase of the process.
Baodong Zhao has been appointed Vice-President, Metallurgy. Dr. Zhao is responsible for oversight of the implementation of critical technological applications of metallurgy in all aspects of GWMG’s business development and expansion planning. Dr. Zhao holds a Bachelors and a Masters Degree in Physical Chemistry in Metallurgical Processes from the University of Science and Technology in Beijing and a Ph. D. in Chemistry from Queen’s University.
Great Western Minerals Group Summary:
Great Western Minerals Group Ltd. is an integrated rare earth processor. Its specialty alloys are used in the battery, magnet and aerospace industries. Produced at the Company’s wholly owned subsidiaries Less Common Metals Limited in Birkenhead, U.K. and Great Western Technologies Inc. in Troy, Michigan, these alloys contain aluminum, nickel, cobalt and rare earth elements. As part of the Company’s vertical integration strategy, GWMG also holds 100% equity ownership in Rare Earth Extraction Co. Limited, which owns a 74% equity interest in the Steenkampskraal Mine in South Africa. In addition to an exploration program at Steenkampskraal, GWMG also holds interests in four active rare earth exploration and development properties in North America.
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