This article summarises the mineral processing and metallurgical testwork described in the May 2020 NI 43-101 Preliminary Economic Assessment technical report for the CuMo project.
Report context
The Preliminary Economic Assessment and NI 43-101 Technical Report for the CuMo Project, USA, dated May 2020, was prepared for American CuMo Mining Corp. The report covers metallurgical testing, mineral processing, recovery methods, and resource estimates, incorporating both historical testwork from 2009 and 2015 and conceptual study flotation testing.
Processing route
Metallurgical Testing (2009, 2015)
The metallurgical testwork program included sample selection, testwork procedures, and conceptual study flotation testwork. Grade and recovery predictions were developed from this testwork. The testing addressed both mineral sorting and conventional flotation approaches.
Mineral Sorting
Two sorting approaches were evaluated in the testwork: particle sorting and bulk sorting.
Particle Sorting
Particle sorting techniques were examined as part of the processing strategy. The particle sorting evaluation was included in both the mineral processing and metallurgical testing section and the mining methods section.
Bulk Sorting
Bulk sorting was investigated as a processing option. The bulk sorting approach was incorporated into the pit optimization input parameters and the recovery methods section.
Mill Design and Process Description
The recovery methods section describes the general processing approach, including bulk sorting and particle sorting components. The mill design criteria summary provides the basis for plant design. The processing strategy covers throughput, mill feed, and availability. Flow sheet development, equipment sizing, and unit process selection were completed as part of the plant design basis.
Key reported parameters
| Parameter | Design Basis | Historical Operating Data | Testwork Basis |
|---|---|---|---|
| Metallurgical testwork | Conceptual study flotation | 2009, 2015 testwork programs | Sample selection and testwork program |
| Sorting investigation | Particle and bulk sorting | , | Particle sorting and bulk sorting testwork |
| Grade and recovery predictions | , | , | From testwork program |
| Mill design criteria | Summary criteria established | , | , |
| Flow sheet development | Equipment sizing completed | , | , |
Project website: https://cumoproject.com/project/cumoco/
Technical qualifications
The report does not include mineral reserve estimates. Mineral processing and metallurgical testing section references testwork from 2009 and 2015 only. The mill design criteria and flow sheet development are based on the conceptual study level of assessment. No operating data from an existing mill is presented. The grade and recovery predictions are derived solely from the testwork program without confirmation from continuous plant operations.
Source: Preliminary Economic Assessment & NI 43-101 Technical Report for the CuMo Project, USA, May 2020, Sections 13, 16, and 17.
