- EcoGraf (EGR) has partnered with Vermeer Equipment Suppliers to explore low emission mining methods for its Epanko Graphite Project in Tanzania
- Specifically, the companies will evaluate whether Vermeer’s surface mining equipment is suitable to mine, load and haul Epanko ore to reduce environmental impacts
- Vermeer will complete a study on the performance of its surface miner machine using data from Epanko and if results are encouraging, an onsite practical test will follow
- This deal is part of EcoGraf’s enhancement studies following the Tanzanian Government’s goal to attract foreign investment and debt financing arrangements for the new Epanko Graphite Mine
- EGR is trading flat at 58.5 cents
EcoGraf (EGR) has signed a memorandum of understanding with Vermeer Equipment Suppliers to explore low emission mining methods at the Epanko Graphite Project in Tanzania.
Vermeer is the sub-Saharan African distributor of Vermeer Manufacturing Company, established in the US in 1948. Vermeer manufactures high-quality underground construction, surface mining, agricultural and environmental equipment.
Its Terrain Leveler machine reportedly combines productivity with precision and, importantly, boasts a feature that reduces the use of water and minimises dust entering the air during operations.
The non-binding agreement will see the companies evaluate the suitability of an alternative surface mining concept using one of Vermeer’s surface mining machines to mine, load and haul ore from the Epanko project.
Ultimately, the aim is to establish mining processes that will lower carbon emissions and reduce negative environmental impacts that occur in conventional mining methods.
EcoGraf will give Vermeer geotechnical, geological, structural and mining data from the Epanko project so it can conduct a study on the surface miner performance. If the results are encouraging, the companies will undertake a practical onsite test.
The agreement with Vermeer is part of EcoGraf’s enhancement studies following the Tanzanian Government’s steps to attract increased foreign investment and progress debt financing arrangements for the construction of the new Epanko Graphite Mine.
EcoGraf also expects to finalise a review of the large, fresh rock graphite zone within
the Epanko Mineral Resource area to define the potential to deliver a 99 per cent carbon graphite, without additional processing.
The project development is designed to provide inter-generational economic and social benefits for the regional community near the town of Mahenge and will support Tanzania’s positive industrialisation progress.
EGR was trading flat at 58.5 cents at 11:45 am AEDT.