The Aukam graphite processing plant in Namibia is set for launch. Gratomic, a multinational graphite supplier confirmed that the hub nears completion.
Armando Farhate, chief operating officer and Head of Graphite and Sales at Gratomic said the company has deployed “a tentative schedule” for all activities required for Operational Readiness. It is now preparing to assign task operators, identify required resources and obtain management approvals.
“The primary purpose of Operational Readiness is to reduce operational risks, which is specifically defined as the risk of loss resulting from inadequate or failed internal processes, people and systems or external events. Operations Readiness is the only way to ensure a safe and smooth start of the new plant,” said Armando Farhate.
Schedule
The company’s schedule indicates that the first Product In Bag (PIB), exhibiting commercial characteristics, is expected to be delivered by the end of March 2022. Arno Brand, CEO & President of Gratomic, said the Aukam Graphite Project would be “online in Q1” of 2022.
Earlier in January 2021, Gratomic began constructing air classification units for the Aukum graphite processing plant. The air classification system is designed to eliminate the ore screening process and separate ore by size, weight, and shape.
“The Gratomic team continues to demonstrate its ability to maintain the highest level of focus and dedication imaginable. Despite all the hurdles encountered by a global pandemic, and all the struggles that entails, the Company has remained on-track to bring its Aukam Graphite Project online in Q1 of this year. That is a feat few could achieve, particularly under these circumstances,” said Arno Brand.
