Mipac to work on MRM Phase 3 expansion

Xstrata Zinc has engaged Mipac to help expand the McArthur River Mine (MRM) in the Northern Territory.

The mine, located about 900 kilometres south east of Darwin and about 60 kilometres west of the town of Borroloola, is one of the world’s largest providers of zinc in bulk concentrate form.

The MRM Phase 3 Development Project, worth AU$360 million, aims to increase capacity from 2.5 million tonnes of ore per annum to 5.5 million tonnes and increase production from 360,000 dry metric tonnes to 800,000 dry metric tonnes per annum.

“We are working on ways to improve crushing, grinding, management of the ore stockpile, regrinding, and build rougher flotation,” Mipac Managing Director Eddie DeRivera says.

“Mipac is designing and configuring the integration of these processes into the overall network design and existing site network, including the associated network security. We are also working on the DCS design for a power station to start permissive interface and load shedding.”

In addition, Mipac’s remit includes detailing specific purchases, system configuration, FAT, SAT, commissioning, and the delivery of a suitable process control system.

“We are to design, test and commission a fully operational DCS and advise on long-term control system operation, including possible future expansion and upgrades,” Eddie says.

“The Phase 3 expansion is a terrific opportunity for Mipac to show off our talents. This is a world-class initiative and is expected to boost industry output by more than $8 billion. It is wonderful to be able to contribute to the project’s success.”