Vale Base Metals Expands Nickel Production
In an exciting development for the mining industry, Vale Base Metals has officially commenced operations of the second nickel processing furnace, referred to as Furnace 2, at the Onça Puma Mining Complex located in Brazil. This significant achievement marks a pivotal expansion of production capacity, bolstering Vale's long-term growth and profitability strategies.
Impact on Production Capability and Industry Leadership
The introduction of Furnace 2 enhances the Onça Puma site, establishing it as the largest ferronickel operation within Brazil. The addition of 15 kilotons of nickel production capacity elevates the complex's total nameplate capacity to an impressive 40 kilotons per annum (ktpa). This advancement not only positions Vale as a leader in the nickel sector but also emphasizes its critical role in the global supply chain.
Successful Project Completion and Safety Standards
Vale Base Metals completed the Furnace 2 project on time and under budget, achieving noteworthy milestones such as a 13% cost reduction and zero lost-time injuries throughout the duration of the three-year project. Shaun Usmar, CEO of Vale Base Metals, praised the efforts of Kilma Cunha and her team at Onça Puma for their dedication to excellence in delivering this vital initiative.
Generating Jobs and Supporting the Local Economy
The Furnace 2 project has had a substantial impact on employment, generating approximately 2,500 jobs during its construction phase. The successful operation of Furnace 2 further positions Onça Puma favorably within the global nickel cost curve, while also playing a pivotal role in the socioeconomic development of Pará. With a workforce of over 1,800 permanent employees and contractors, the Onça Puma Mining Complex stands as a crucial contributor to job creation and community advancement.
Future Growth and Nickel Production Guidance
Vale Base Metals continues to align with its production goals, aiming for nickel outputs between 160-175 kt by 2025. The commencement of operations at Furnace 2, alongside the ramp-up of underground mining activities at Voisey's Bay in Canada, is expected to significantly contribute to an overall nickel production range of 210 to 250 kt by 2030.
About Onça Puma Mining Complex
The Onça Puma facility began operations in 2011, positioning Brazil as a key player in nickel exports, particularly to the stainless-steel industry. Onça Puma is committed to fostering socioeconomic development within its operational communities through job creation, tax contributions, direct investments, and local procurement efforts.
About Vale Base Metals
Vale Base Metals stands among the world's leading producers of high-quality nickel and serves as an important supplier of responsibly sourced copper and cobalt. Headquartered in London, United Kingdom, with a global operations center in Toronto, Canada, Vale Base Metals operates in various regions, including Newfoundland & Labrador, Ontario, Manitoba, Indonesia, Brazil, and Japan. The company maintains a strong ownership structure with 90% held by Vale S.A. and the remaining 10% by Manara Minerals Investment Company.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Furnace 2 at Onça Puma?
Furnace 2 is the second nickel processing furnace at the Onça Puma Mining Complex, enhancing the facility's production capacity.
How much additional nickel production capacity does Furnace 2 provide?
Furnace 2 adds an additional 15 kilotons of nickel production capacity to Onça Puma.
What is the operational capacity of Onça Puma with Furnace 2?
With the start-up of Furnace 2, Onça Puma's total nameplate production capacity reaches 40 kilotons per annum.
What impact did the project have on employment?
The Furnace 2 project generated approximately 2,500 jobs during its construction phase, supporting local employment.
What are Vale Base Metals' future production goals?
Vale aims to produce 160-175 kilotons of nickel by 2025 and 210 to 250 kilotons by 2030, boosted by projects like Furnace 2.
