According to preliminary test results, the iron grades of the samples sent ranged between 22 percent to 43 percent total iron. Further, the preliminary test results indicate that an iron concentrate can be produced which will be low in deleterious elements; specifically phosphorous, sulphur and alumina. Further metallurgical testwork is now planned to determine the detailed parameters of such iron concentrate.
Lew Lawrick, President and CEO of Anaconda stated, "This is a significant positive development as this preliminary testwork substantiates that San Gabriel magnetite ore can be processed into a high value product for the global steel industry. The potential to produce a fine ore sinter feed product from a portion of the deposit has significant positive implications for offtake opportunities and thus potential development initiatives."
As part of ongoing commercialization studies, a process flow sheet using a dry process including a high pressure grinding roll press and a regrind circuit to reduce the amount of mixed ores will be tested in due course to produce iron concentrate. If successful, a pilot plant test of 5 tons of magnetite mineralization will be necessary for feasibility study purposes.