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Highlights
- Mineral Technologies has finalised a conceptual process flow diagram for the Linka Tungsten Project, integrating all baseline metallurgical results.
- The flowsheet features a modular design, allowing potential future additions such as WHIMS or Falcon Concentrator without redesigning the main processing circuit.
- Preliminary equipment sizing and comminution testwork are underway to inform early-stage capital cost estimates and resource requirements.
- Viking Mines is preparing for a June-quarter drilling campaign.
Viking Mines Limited (ASX:VKA) (OTC:VKALF) has reached a significant stage in the development of its Linka Tungsten Project in Western Australia. Mineral Technologies, which is conducting the conceptual processing study, has finalised a process flow diagram that integrates all existing baseline metallurgical results to date. This is a key milestone in the project’s "RapidStart" development strategy, moving the focus from laboratory validation toward mechanical engineering, financial modelling, and preliminary capital expenditure planning.
Conceptual Flowsheet Aligned with Metallurgical Data
The newly developed process flowsheet integrates results from prior metallurgical studies, which demonstrated the ability to produce tungsten concentrate under laboratory conditions. The design also effectively separates garnet-rich middlings during gravity processing.
A standout feature of the flowsheet is its modular design. This allows for potential future integration of additional processing stages in the plant, including Wet High-Intensity Magnetic Separation (WHIMS) or Falcon Concentrator. Importantly, these modifications can be added without redesigning the primary processing circuit.
In case, further metallurgical testwork demonstrates high recovery opportunities, the design allows for potential modification, subject to further testwork.
Processing Rate and Equipment Considerations
For conceptual evaluation purposes, the study assumes a processing rate of approximately 43 tonnes per hour. This figure is used solely to guide technical assessments of the flowsheet and is not a production target.
Mineral Technologies has begun preliminary equipment sizing to inform order-of-magnitude capital cost estimates. Complementary comminution testwork, including rock breakage and energy testing, will provide inputs for assessing power and water requirements. The company is also evaluating whether purchasing or hiring specific equipment modules could reduce upfront capital needs and shorten development timelines.
Next Steps in Project Advancement
Viking Mines is fast-tracking the Linka Tungsten Project through multiple workstreams. Near-term plans include drilling scheduled for the June quarter, evaluation of historical tailings and stockpiles as supplementary feedstock, and Phase 2 field campaign which includes geological mapping.
The company will also complete a 3D geological model to support drilling plans and a potential JORC (2012) exploration target. Meanwhile, metallurgical testwork continues, with cleaner flotation results expected shortly.
Furthermore, the company has lodged a Notice of Intent for the maiden drilling program and is securing a drilling contractor for operations later this quarter.
VKA shares were trading 7.14% higher at AUD 0.015 per share during trading session on 27 April 2026.
