Mineral Resources says that the Mt Marion lithium operation in the Goldfields region of Western Australia is undergoing significant upgrades, marking the start of an exciting new chapter in Mineral Resources’ lithium growth story.
Jointly owned by Mineral Resources and Jianxing Ganfeng Lithium Co Ltd, the Mt Marion operation produces high-quality lithium spodumene concentrate. Ganfeng converts it to lithium hydroxide to support the production of world-leading battery products such as Apple iPhones and Tesla electric vehicles.
In a statement, the company said an increase in lithium spodumene production earlier this year from 4500,000 tonnes per year to 600,000 tonnes per year —with a further boost to 900,000 tonnes per year targeted for the end of 2022. The move comes in response to the strengthened global lithium market and positive metallurgical test results at Mt Marion.
According to Mineral Resources, significant improvements are now being implemented across Mt Marion operations to support increased production capacity. Improvements include improvements to the site’s crushing and processing plant, workshop, warehouse, and site office, as well as a more extensive mobile equipment fleet and new and improved access roads to support safe and efficient transportation to and from the site.
Mineral Resources Chief Executive – Lithium Paul Brown stated that the upgrades would further strengthen the company’s position as a globally significant lithium products producer and offer a better environment for employees for them to be able to perform at their best.
“Doubling capacity at Mt Marion means this Tier 1 asset will become even more important to MinRes’ ongoing success, helping us continue making valuable contributions to the world’s renewable energy efforts and further support our people to build long and fulfilling careers,” he said.
Enhancements across operational and village facilities are scheduled to be completed in early 2023.
