Fox Resources is testing the viability of heap leaching operations at two of its metal projects in the Pilbara to boost production and maximise cash flow.
The company is completing testwork at its West Whundo and Radio Hill projects in WA to make use of large stockpiles of oxide copper ore tailings.
Fox managing director Bruno Seneque hopes the project will produce high-value end products from existing material to minimise processing costs and maximise output.
“We believe this is a promising, low cost opportunity and already have key infrastructure in place,” he said.
The testwork will use more than 300,000t of stockpiled material and may take up to five years to complete.
Column testing will commence as soon as possible at the Radio Hill project and work at the Whundo copper operation is expected to be completed within three months.
The Radio Hill flotation plant will remain on care and maintenance for stand-by use while testwork is underway.