Highlights
Elevate Uranium prepares U-pgrade demonstration plant for deployment in Namibia
Pilot aims to test continuous beneficiation process with Namibian-sourced ore
Plant data will support future technical studies and operational optimisation
Elevate Uranium Ltd (ASX:EL8), listed on the ASX 300, is progressing within the uranium and lithium sector by advancing its proprietary U-pgrade beneficiation technology. The company has confirmed that its demonstration plant is set to complete final factory testing before being shipped to Namibia in the coming months.
This initiative marks a pivotal milestone for the company as it seeks to establish the U-pgrade process under operational conditions using ore sourced from its Namibian project portfolio.
Demonstration Plant Designed for Continuous Scalability
The U-pgrade plant is tailored to perform beneficiation on uranium ore while operating on a continuous basis. The setup aims to handle a defined volume of ore to confirm the effectiveness of the process at a scale aligned with future commercial deployment.
Key performance metrics will be monitored during this pilot phase, enabling further refinement and validation of the technology’s performance on local feedstock. The implementation phase includes careful assembly and commissioning once the plant arrives in Namibia.
Technical Oversight and On-Site Execution Strategy
Elevate Uranium has appointed Senior Metallurgist Andrew Jones to lead on-ground execution in Namibia. His responsibilities include overseeing the reassembly and operation of the U-pgrade facility following its shipment from Perth.
Jones' relocation underlines the company’s emphasis on operational precision, process continuity, and data integrity. The setup will support the collection of detailed output metrics and quality assurance assessments.
Key Benefits of the U-pgrade Process
The U-pgrade method reduces the mass of ore processed prior to leaching, significantly increasing the uranium concentration. As a result, the company expects streamlined capital deployment and reduced operational inputs, which could contribute to more efficient downstream processes.
The pilot also supports further optimisation of the Marenica Uranium Project, where early-stage test work has shown improved ore grades and reduced processing volumes. These metrics are central to shaping the company’s technical pathway and long-term commercial strategies.
Future Focus on Technical Studies and Data Evaluation
With the demonstration plant slated for operation later this year, Elevate Uranium anticipates leveraging operational data to initiate broader technical assessments. These will form the foundation for comprehensive studies aimed at commercial adaptation of the U-pgrade process across the company’s portfolio.
Insights collected from pilot performance will also be integrated into future planning, ensuring alignment between engineering validation and regulatory engagement for the Namibian assets.
What is U-pgrade and how does it benefit Elevate Uranium (ASX:EL8)?
U-pgrade is a process that concentrates uranium by reducing ore mass, enabling higher grades before leaching.
Where will the U-pgrade demonstration plant be deployed?
The plant is scheduled for shipment to Namibia, where Elevate Uranium operates several projects.
Who will oversee the plant’s installation and operation in Namibia?
Elevate’s Senior Metallurgist, Andrew Jones, will lead the on-site deployment and process management.