:: Outokumpu Technology's Delivery to Sepon Copper Project in Laos Ahead of Schedule

Outokumpu Technology's commissioning teams have successfully completed their job at Oxiana Limited's Sepon project in Laos. The new plant has started copper production two weeks ahead of schedule.

In September 2003 Outokumpu Technology agreed to deliver a copper solvent extraction and electrowinning plant and minerals processing equipment for Oxiana. Together with the technology agreement, Outokumpu has an off-take agreement for half of the copper cathode production from the new plant.

The scope of Outokumpu Technology's delivery covered basic and detailed engineering, all equipment, installation supervision and commissioning services. The SX-EW plant is designed to produce 60 000 tonnes of copper cathodes per annum. It is one of the world's lowest cost copper producers.

The grinding mill Outokumpu Technology delivered is a design uniquely suitable for extreme environments, incorporating metals technology common to nuclear power reactors. Combining protective stainless steel with more durable carbon steel provided a mill suitable for the high-acid environment at Sepon.

Commissioning has progressed successfully and both the solvent extraction and the electrowinning plant are in operation. It is anticipated that the first commercial shipment of cathodes will occur at the end of March.