Western Exploration Achieves Promising Metallurgical Results
Western Exploration Inc. (OTCQX: WEXPF) is thrilled to share the favorable outcomes from recent metallurgical testing of the Aura Project, specifically focusing on the Gravel Creek deposit. The latest tests have revealed exceptional results, notably a gold recovery rate of 94.8% in a combined gravity and flotation concentrate.
Highlights from the Testing
The metallurgical testing involved several essential phases that are integral for evaluating the potential for extracting precious metals:
- Locked-cycle flotation tests demonstrated a 94.8% recovery for gold and 89.8% for silver in the final concentrate.
- The concentrate made up 10.9% of the feed weight, showcasing an average gold grade of 57.1 g/t and silver at 1,725 g/t.
- Average sulphide sulphur content in the flotation concentrates was measured at 29.1%.
- The gravity concentration also proved effective, recovering substantial quantities of both gold and silver from the tailings, with some gold grades reaching as high as 920 g/t.
Leadership Comments
Darcy Marud, the CEO of Western Exploration, expressed his enthusiasm about the results, saying, "Preliminary metallurgical tests on the Gravel Creek hanging wall mineralization have delivered very positive recoveries for both gold and silver. These results align with earlier testing findings, highlighting a promising trajectory for the economic viability of the project."
Sample Locations and Testing Details
The flotation tests were carried out using composite samples from diamond drill holes WG456 and WG457, which were drilled in 2023. These holes were instrumental in evaluating the potential for resource growth in the vicinity.
- WG456 yielded individual assay results with peaks of 34.9 g/t Au and 2800.0 g/t Ag.
- WG457 showed assay results with a maximum of 257.0 g/t Au and 1655.0 g/t Ag.
- The composite samples originated from mineralization found at depths between 316 meters and 731 meters in both drill holes.
Overview of the Flotation Program
The flotation tests were conducted by McClelland Laboratories, Inc in Nevada. They used a specialized set of flotation reagents aimed at achieving the highest possible recovery rates for both gold and silver. The results indicated that the gravel Creek mineralization responded well to flotation treatment, reaching impressive recovery rates exceeding 92% in certain tests.
Cleaner Flotation Testing Results
Preliminary results from cleaner flotation tests suggested that additional processing could significantly improve concentrate grades. The cleaner concentrates achieved remarkable grades of over 70 g/t Au and greater than 3,900 g/t Ag, bolstering the project's economic viability.
Insights from Gravity Flotation Testing
A gravity concentration test on flotation tailings showed that an impressive 77% of the gold in those samples could be recovered using gravity methods. This confirmed the methodical approach's effectiveness in enhancing recovery rates for both gold and silver through the overall process.
Initial Assessment of the Aura Project
The Aura Project spans 6,000 hectares and features existing resource estimates across several deposits, which enhances its potential. These estimates adhere to Canadian standards, ensuring their accuracy and reliability.
Western Exploration’s thorough exploration and development strategies are well-supported by established infrastructure, facilitating efficient project progress.
Commitment to Environmental and Regulatory Compliance
Western Exploration is dedicated to environmental responsibility, strictly following regulations and best practices in mining and mineral exploration. This commitment to responsible exploration not only helps ensure the success of current projects but also secures the integrity of future initiatives.
About Western Exploration
Western Exploration is focused on advancing its fully owned Aura Project, which comprises three prominent deposits: Doby George, Gravel Creek, and Wood Gulch. The company is led by a team of dedicated professionals with extensive expertise in precious metals, aiming to establish itself as a leading development entity in North America.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the implications of the flotation results?
The flotation results point to strong recovery rates for gold and silver, which are vital for determining the Aura Project's economic viability.
Which testing methods were employed in this evaluation?
The evaluation utilized both locked-cycle flotation and gravity concentration tests to measure the potential for recovery.
How does this affect the future of the Aura Project?
The favorable outcomes enhance the chances of exploring further development opportunities and the potential for resource growth.
Who carried out the flotation testing?
McClelland Laboratories, Inc., a well-regarded laboratory based in Nevada, conducted the flotation testing primarily.
What are Western Exploration's plans moving forward?
Western Exploration intends to keep pushing the Aura Project forward while also looking for new opportunities for growth and development.
