Iluka Resources 2014 production reportIluka has reported annual production of Zircon, Rutile and Synthetic Rutile of 535 thousand tonnes for the year ending 31st December 2014. This is compared to 471 thousand tonnes in 2013. The higher production volumes were for zircon and rutile, with reduced production of synthetic rutile. Sales volumes increased by 5% to 616 thousand tonnes compared to 584 thousand tonnes in 2013. This increase was down to rutile with a drop off in sales for both zircon and synthetic rutile. Total mineral sands revenues for the year were AU$725 million compared to AU$763 million in 2013. Revenues per tonne were down by 12% on the back of reduced rutile and zircon prices Mining at the company’s two Australian mines, Jacinth-Ambrosia and Woornack, Rownack, Pirro, have been running at full utilisation. Mining in Virginia, USA was at a reduced level during 2014 and is expected to cease in 2015 due to an inability to conclude appropriate commercial arrangements to underpin new mine development. Zircon Zircon sand sales were 352 thousand tonnes compared to 370 thousand tonnes in 2013. This was a reflection of the weaker demand from Europe, the Middle East and India. Zircon sales for 2014 were second half weighted with sales of 206 thousand tonnes in H2 compared to 146 thousand tonnes in H1. While sales in Europe were weak, North America and China markets remand robust with sales levels the same as 2013. North America showed steady demand in industrial and manufacturing markets while China showed increased sales over 2013 despite softening in the ceramics sector. A slowdown in China’s property market has been the reason for idle ceramic plants in China during the second half of the year and this is likely to lead to a slow start in 2015.
Iluka Resources is the largest producer of zircon sand in the world. Zircon sand is the starting raw material for the majority of all zirconium chemicals and zirconium oxides. Date : 16-01-2015 |
