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Vametco Vanadium Mine
Taking place on: 27 August 2014
Tour Leader
Johan de Villiers
Outcrop of the Main magnetite layer
Geology and Operation:
The mine is situated on the Main magnetite layer at the base of the Upper Zone of the Bushveld Complex. It is operated solely for the extraction of vanadium from the magnetite, and the final product is vanadium nitride.
The Main magnetite layer is a massive cumulate consisting of magnetite containing approximately 2% V2O5 at its base, decreasing progressively upwards. The magnetite is intimately intergrown with ilmenite which contains negligible vanadium. Mining is by opencast methods and after crushing and milling, the magnetite is extracted using magnetic separation. The concentrate is then roasted with sodium carbonate and the sodium vanadate extracted by water washing. The vanadium is converted to ammonium vanadate and finally to vanadium pentoxide, which is then roasted to produce vanadium nitride.
Mineralogists can collect excellent samples of coarse-grained magnetite, containing spectacular microscopic intergrowths as well as samples of disseminated magnetite.
It is an easy trip and outcrops can be reached by normal vehicles.
Cost: R 750-00 per person
Cost Includes:
- Transport
- Packed lunch
- Refreshments on the coach
Min number of participants: 15
Maximum number of participants: 20
Terms and Conditions:
1. Participation will be confirmed on receipt of payment.
2. Preference will be given to registered IMA delegates and accompanying persons.
3. All cancellations must be received in writing and sent to This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.
4. Cancellations received before 30 June 2014 will receive a full refund less a 10% administration fee.
5. Cancellations received between 1 July and 15 August 2014 will receive a 50% refund.
6. No refunds will be issued for cancellations received after 15 August 2014.
7. Refunds are subject to the approval of and at the discretion of the organising committee.
8. The organising committee reserves the right to change or cancel this tour.
