Copper ore specifications in Zambia vary depending on the mining company and the specific deposit, but generally, Zambian copper ore is known for its relatively high grade compared to global averages. Below are some key specifications and details regarding copper ore from Zambia:
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Typical Copper Ore Specifications in Zambia
1. Copper (Cu) Content
– Oxide Ores: ~1.5% – 4% Cu
– Sulfide Ores: ~1% – 6% Cu (some high-grade deposits can exceed 8%)
2. Common Associated Minerals
– Oxide Ores: Malachite, Azurite, Chrysocolla
– Sulfide Ores: Chalcopyrite, Bornite, Chalcocite
3. Impurities & Penalty Elements
– Arsenic (As) – Usually low (<0.1%)
– Lead (Pb) – Minimal (<0.05%)
– Zinc (Zn) – Varies but generally acceptable
– Silica (SiO₂) – Can be high in some ores (~30-50%)
– Iron (Fe) – Present in sulfide ores
4. Moisture Content
– Typically around 5–10% for shipped ore
5. Processing Methods
– Oxide Ores: Heap leaching, solvent extraction, and electrowinning (.jpg)
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– Sulfide Ores: Froth flotation followed by smelting
Major Copper Mines in Zambia
Zambia is Africa’s second-largest copper producer after the DRC. Key mines include:
– Konkola Copper Mines (KCM) – High-grade sulfide & oxide ores
– Mopani Copper Mines – Mixed sulfide/oxide deposits
– First Quantum Minerals (FQM) – Kansanshi & Sentinel Mines – Large-scale open-pit mining with blended ores
– Barrick Lumwana Mine – Lower-grade but bulk-minable copper ore
Export & Market Specifications
– Zambian copper concentrates typically range between 20–40% Cu after processing.
– Smelters may impose penalties for excessive impurities like As, Bi, or Hg.
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