WHITTLE CONSULTING CASE STUDY – IVANHOE, PLATREEF

 

The best way to explain the benefits of the Whittle Integrated Strategic Mine Planning approach is to look at examples of our project work. Since 1999, Whittle Consulting has a proven track record in mining optimisation and mine planning with many of the largest mining companies around the world, undertaken across all commodities and in all continents.

Whittle Enterprise Optimisation studies have consistently proven to significantly enhance the economics of mining projects and operations. The full effects of a Whittle Optimisation can be extraordinary. Whittle Consulting regularly achieves NPV increases from 5%-35%, and in many cases substantially more. These improvements to mine valuation occur even when other conventional mine optimisation techniques have already been applied. The Ivanhoe, Platreef project is an excellent example of the benefits we provide to our clients.

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IVANHOE, PLATREEF – PLATINUM, SOUTH AFRICA

Whittle Consulting conducted a commercially-orientated review of the pre-feasibility study designs and cost estimates of the Platreef, followed by a value chain mine optimisation and sustainability study. Although the results cannot be disclosed, they were financially significant to overall mine valuation. Revenue and cashflow were brought forward, NPV was significantly enhanced and the location of the most profitable ore body in the South African project was determined.

“Despite lower metal prices used in the definitive feasibility study compared to the 2015 pre-feasibility study, we have maintained the excellent economics of the Platreef Project due, in part, to the mine optimisation work completed with assistance from industry-leading experts, such as Whittle Consulting of Melbourne, Australia. Even at today’s spot metal prices, the Platreef Project would generate an operating margin in excess of 40%.” Robert Friedland, Executive Chairman, Ivanhoe Mines.

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