Ivanhoe Mines has achieved a new milestone in copper production at its Kamoa-Kakula Copper Complex in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), reaching a record 40,347 tonnes of copper in August 2024. The complex’s Phase 1, 2, and 3 concentrators also set a daily production record of 2,096 tonnes on August 31.
The ramp-up of the Phase 3 concentrator is progressing smoothly, with the facility approaching steady-state production. In August, the combined concentrators processed 1.1 million tonnes of ore, while the Phase 3 concentrator alone handled 350,000 tonnes, putting it on track for an annual throughput of 4.2 million tonnes.
The daily milling rate of the concentrator is nearing the target of 5 million tonnes per year, with potential to surpass this benchmark. The Phase 3 concentrator’s recovery rate averaged 77% in August, with expectations to reach the nameplate target of 86% once the final stages of the fine-grinding mills are operational in the coming days. Additionally, on-site backup power generation capacity was increased to 135 MW following the installation of new generators in July, ensuring full production capability for Phases 1 and 2 even in the absence of grid power.
Year-to-date, the combined production from Kamoa-Kakula stands at approximately 263,000 tonnes of copper, with 14,000 tonnes coming from the Phase 3 concentrator. With anticipated improvements in processing throughput and copper recovery after the fine-grinding mills in Phase 3 are commissioned, Kamoa-Kakula expects to maintain its recent production record and achieve its 2024 guidance of between 440,000 and 490,000 tonnes of copper.
