Amplats shuts down converter plant phase B-unit

Anglo American Platinum announces that on 31 May 2020 a water leak was detected in the high-pressure cooling section of the Anglo Converter Plant (ACP) Phase B unit.

The systems allowed production management to bring the unit down pro-actively and safely. All employees evacuated the area safely.

Whilst a detailed technical investigation into the cause of this leak and potential repairs is under way, the Company has taken the decision to temporarily close the ACP Phase B unit to ensure an ongoing safe operating environment, protect employees and protect the integrity of the plant.

This latest action is separate from the repair work that was recently completed at the ACP Phase B unit and there is no damage to the prior repairs or to the furnace.

An update from the Company will be provided as soon as more information is available, expected to be early next week.

In the meantime, the repair of Phase A unit is progressing well and is unaffected by the current work at ACP Phase B unit.