Highland Copper's Engineering Success for Copperwood Project

Highland Copper's Progress on the Copperwood Project

Highland Copper Company Inc. has marked a significant milestone by successfully completing Phase 1 detailed engineering for its wholly-owned Copperwood Project. This project, located in Michigan, showcases Highland's commitment to enhancing its operational capacity and reducing environmental impact.

Comprehensive Reevaluation of Project Engineering

Phase 1 involved a thorough reassessment of the original project designs, confirming key architectural decisions while providing substantial improvements. The enhancements apply to both the process plant and mining operations and are designed to elevate the project's overall performance before it transitions into Phase 2 engineering.

Key Improvements and Strategies

The engineering team, led by Dr. Wynand van Dyk, conducted extensive modifications that promise to deliver better operational efficiencies. One of the standout features of this phase is the remarkable redesign of the process plant that targets an impressive 87.6% copper recovery while simultaneously reducing operational costs.

Effective Operational Enhancements

The newly redesigned circuit achieves lower power consumption and reduced reagent use, translating to a keen decrease of operational costs by approximately $1.00 per tonne milled compared to the Feasibility Study conducted in 2023. Additionally, the process incorporates advanced technologies like the MF2 circuit and Jameson cell ultrafine flotation, which will enhance performance while minimizing the environmental footprint.

Advancements in Mining Engineering

The engineering team also reevaluated the mining method. While the previous strategy employed room-and-pillar mining, the new analysis explored drift-and-fill, particularly in high-grade ore zones. This innovative approach could potentially boost copper recoveries from 69% to an astounding 94%. Highland is keen on exploring this option further in Phase 2.

Equipment and Handling Optimization

Through rigorous assessments, the team scrutinized the productivity of various mining equipment, particularly continuous miners versus conventional methods. They confirm that conveyor systems are the preferred choice for underground ore handling due to their lower operating costs and adaptability to future battery electric vehicle technologies.

Tailings and Water Management Improvements

Tailings management has also seen extensive upgrades. The addition of thickened tailings systems elevates the solids content considerably, enhancing cost-efficiency and minimizing environmental risks. This system facilitates the recycling of more than 80% of the process water, which aligns with Highland's environmental objectives.

Environmental Resilience in Water Management

With updated water balance modeling, Highland aims to ensure robust management strategies across diverse climate conditions, bolstering its ESG commitments. The focus remains not only on immediate operational objectives but also on long-term sustainability.

Planning for Phase 2 Engineering

As Highland moves toward Phase 2, the engineering team plans to incorporate an updated labor cost survey that reflects current market conditions and workforce requirements. This survey will ensure the project remains competitive and viable while maintaining operational sustainability.

Integrating Market Inputs and Technical Solutions

In preparation for Phase 2, Highland will analyze various market inputs, including shifts in copper prices alongside potential changes in labor and operational costs. Such assessments are vital as they will form the foundation for an updated mining plan, ensuring alignment with technical advancements and economic assumptions.

Commitment to Environmental and Technical Excellence

Highland remains dedicated to making any necessary permit amendments to enhance project design, embracing strategies that improve environmental impacts. Recognizing that effective environmental stewardship leads to better operational outcomes, the company is well-positioned for a construction decision potentially by the latter half of the year.

About Highland Copper Company

Highland Copper Company Inc. focuses on advancing copper projects mainly in Michigan's Upper Peninsula. With robust ownership stakes and infrastructure provisions, Highland is prepared for future development phases and sustainable growth. The Company currently has 736,363,619 common shares outstanding, trading under the stock ticker "HI" on the TSX Venture Exchange and"HDRSF" on the OTCQB Venture Market.

Frequently Asked Questions

What recent engineering phase has Highland Copper completed?

Highland Copper has completed Phase 1 detailed engineering for its Copperwood Project.

What improvements were made in the process plant design?

The redesigned process plant aims for 87.6% copper recovery and features lower operational costs due to reduced power and reagent consumption.

How does the new mining method proposed improve recovery rates?

The drift-and-fill method could increase mine recoveries from 69% to about 94%, enhancing the overall economics of the project.

What is Highland Copper's commitment to environmental standards?

Highland is focused on implementing environmentally responsible practices, such as enhanced tailings management and sustainable water recycling.

When can we expect a construction decision for the Copperwood Project?

A construction decision is anticipated possibly in the latter half of the year, pending necessary permit amendments and positive project evaluations.

About The Author

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