SPC Nickel Advances with Metallurgical Test Program at West Graham Project
SPC Nickel has commenced a significant metallurgical test work study on mineralization from its West Graham Ni-Cu Project. The study, conducted by Vale Canada, a subsidiary of Vale Base Metals, aims to evaluate the potential recoveries, mineralogy, and grindability of the project’s mineralization. This initiative follows the release of SPC Nickel’s Maiden Resource Estimate earlier this year and represents a crucial step towards advancing the project towards commercial viability.
Grant Mourre, President and CEO of SPC Nickel, highlighted the importance of metallurgical work in progressing mining projects. He expressed optimism about the study providing valuable information that will help in evaluating West Graham as a potential higher-grade starter pit with a low strip ratio. The company eagerly anticipates sharing the results with investors.
The study will utilize a standardized flotation test, simulating the Clarabelle Mill flowsheet located in Sudbury, Ontario, to assess the West Graham mineralization. This approach aims to determine the project’s alignment with the operational parameters and efficiencies of the Clarabelle Mill, owned and operated by Vale.
Metallurgical tests will focus on mineralization from six shallow drill holes completed by SPC Nickel in 2023. These drillings targeted a specific area believed to be a viable candidate for a higher-grade starter pit due to its favorable characteristics. The selected drill cores, totaling 236 kilograms, have been sent to Vale’s Sheridan Park Metallurgical Facility for a series of analyses, including grindability testing, mineral liberation analyses, X-ray diffraction analyses, and flotation test work.
Additionally, SPC Nickel announced the receipt of a $200,000 grant from the Ontario Junior Exploration Program (OJEP) awarded by the government of Ontario. This grant, designed to support early-stage exploration efforts, will cover 50% of eligible exploration costs for the project. The final tranche of these funds was received on March 7, 2024, further supporting the company’s exploration and development activities in Ontario.
