The Skorpion Zinc project, Southern Namibia, Namib desert.
   
Client: Reunion Mining and later Anglo American plc, Base Metals Division.
Location: 25 km north of Rosh Pinah, Southern Namibia.
Budget: US $ 450 million.
Project History:
• Zinc oxide orebody discovered in 1976 (Anglo American Corporation).
• Bankable feasibility study and piloting carried out in 1998 (GTI).
• Anglo American approved the project in 2000.
• Project completed in 2003.
Brief: To produce a world class integrated zinc mine and refinery that sets the highest standards in the innovative processing and production of low-cost Special High Grade zinc.
Technology:

First application of zinc solvent extraction technology on a primary orebody. Zinc is leached from the oxide ore with sulphuric acid at atmospheric pressure.

Zinc is extracted from the leach solution by solvent extraction and stripped from the organic by spent electrolyte. The loaded electrolyte is sent to the electrowinning cellhouse where Special High Grade zinc (99,995%) is produced and finaly cast into products for export.

Power Supply:
• Single circuit 400 kV overhead line 260 km Keetmanshoop to Skorpion.
• 25% of Namibia’s total power requirements, with a plant maximum demand of 84 Megawatts.
Environmental considerations:

Skorpion was developed in a unique and fragile ecosystem where the slightest disturbance can blow away countless dormant seeds of the endemic desert flora or affect the habitats of unique wildlife. Many species of rare and unusual plants were removed prior to earthmoving. The Skorpion team also developed a comprehensive emissions monitoring programme.

Remote and environmentally sensitive site . One of the world's top 25 biodiversity hotspots. Environmental Impact Assessment completed to World Bank standards. Environmental Management Plan implemented during construction paved the way for operational ISO 14001 listing, IAIAsa project of the year winner.

Special requirements: Infrastructure included 191 houses, a shiftworkers village, airstrip and water supply from the Orange river, 45 km away.
Production: At full capacity the refinery will produce 150 ktpa of high quality zinc. The plant has a lifespan of 15 years with ore reserves at 21,4 million tonnes.
A word from the owner: Classic Business 8/8/03 – “We’re very pleased with the commissioning of the Skorpion Zinc Project in Namibia. It’s gone very well. It looks to be a very good business and a very low cost producer.” Tony Trahar, CEO, AAplc



For more info contact www.skorpionzinc.com.na or contact GTI.