Anglo Platinum’s Polokwane smelter in Limpopo has been shut down for six weeks following a furnace run-out, a spokesperson said on Thursday.
The failure occurred just after 8am on Wednesday, said Trevor Raymond in a statement.
”The run-out resulted … in a significant release of steam and smoke visible in the surrounding vicinity.
”All emergency procedures, including actions to safeguard all site personnel, were successfully implemented and no one was injured,” said Raymond.
A preliminary investigation revealed that a failure on the furnace matte end wall caused the run-out.
”This repair is likely to take approximately six weeks to complete.
”As a result of the shutdown it is currently estimated that Anglo Platinum’s output of refined platinum in 2008 will reduce by approximately 150 000 to 200 000 ounces.” — Sapa