Cyprium Metals has begun acid commissioning of the existing heap-leach pads at its Nifty Copper Complex in Western Australia's Paterson region, advancing the Phase 1 copper cathode restart.
In its 14 September operations update, the company said acid had been applied to the heaps for the first time since operations ceased in 2009. First cathode is now expected in the fourth quarter of 2026 during wet commissioning and ramp-up, following plant energisation.
Leaching trial supports commissioning
A 14-well trial using water confirmed the direct-injection well design and demonstrated solution flow rates of approximately 250 cubic metres per hour and beyond. The trial also generated copper-rich solution sufficient to commission the solvent extraction and electrowinning plant.
Cyprium has expanded the wellfield to 98 production wells, providing access to approximately 1.7 million tonnes of material for future leaching. Further wells will be installed progressively as required by production plans.
Plant refurbishment moves towards start-up
The solvent extraction and electrowinning areas are substantially mechanically complete. Remaining work includes electrowinning equipment refurbishment, cathode and anode installation, and completion of electrical and instrumentation scopes.
Existing high-voltage components failed during testing, requiring replacement parts to be procured and expedited. Pre-commissioning has continued using auxiliary power while work towards safe energisation progresses.
Cyprium reported that regulatory approvals supporting the restart are in place, subject to successful commissioning, and that construction has recorded zero lost-time injuries.
The transition from refurbishment into commissioning makes processing, maintenance and technical readiness a focus for the restart. Specific recruitment requirements and timing remain matters for the company to confirm.
Source: Cyprium Metals, Operations Update: Phase 1 Cathode Restart Project, 14 September 2026.