TORONTO (miningweekly.com) – JSE-listed copper-miner Palabora Mining has completed repairs to its north winder, which is now hoisting ore again, the firm said on Friday.

The company said earlier this month that cracks were discovered in the drum of the north winder during a routine inspection in Novembe and that output would be 15% lower for the period November 25 to December 15 because the winder would be taken out of operation for repairs.

The winder is running at a reduced hoisting rate while the company monitors the repairs, but is expected to be at full hoisting rate within the next few days, Palabora said.

Palabora's other winder at its Limpopo mine was unaffected by the incident.

Diversified miner Rio Tinto is Palabora's largest shareholder, with 56%.

To subscribe to Mining Weekly's print magazine email subscriptions@creamermedia.co.za or buy now.