Mining Method

The most viable way to recover the ore body is by a well-established underground mining method called block caving. Block caving is safe, environmentally sound, and cost-effective for mining a large, deep orebody.

In block caving, a large section of ore is initially undercut by drilling and blasting, causing it to collapse under its weight. The blasted ore breaks apart and falls into a series of pre-constructed funnels and access tunnels to form ore extraction drawpoints. From the drawpoints, ore will pass through a series of handling systems to an initial crushing circuit underground before transferring to the above surface Concentrator Complex.

Concentrating

In the second step of the production process, we convert the ore from a low-grade material into a concentrate of high-grade copper inside the Concentrator Complex.

The technique all begins with a wet grinding process that turns the crushed ore into a slurry and transports it to flotation cells. When mixed with water, reagents, and air, the copper minerals produce a bubbly froth. The bubbles with copper are skimmed and filtered to produce copper concentrate.

The concentrate, which contains about 29-31% copper, will then be sent to customers for further processing.

Smelting and Refining

When the concentrate leaves our facility, it will complete the smelting and refining phases to separate the copper from other metals. The final result is a 99.999% pure copper cathode, which is an essential raw material for the processing industry. Copper originating from 7,000 ft below the surface will eventually find its way into electrical wiring, electronics, power generation and transmission, automotive applications, and antimicrobial medical products.

Our Work

Resolution Copper continues investment in local kids and teachers through $900,000 partnership with the Superior Unified School District

Resolution Copper, a joint venture between Rio Tinto and BHP, announced an agreement with the Superior Unified School District todonate $900,000 to fund educational opportunities for students in the district.

Samson Belvado – From Apprentice to Future Environmental Scientist

At Resolution Copper, we believe that investing in our people is key to protecting the environment and building a sustainable future. One standout example of this is Samson Belvado, a proud member of the San Carlos Apache Tribe and a passionate Environmental Apprentice.

Strengthening Local Partnerships with Superior Environmental Solutions

Mario Sanchez, the dedicated owner of Superior Environmental Solutions, has been a cornerstone of our partnership network since the very beginning.

2024 Most Influential Women in Arizona includes Vicky Peacey

Vicky was featured on the cover of the July issue issue of Az Business magazine, profiled inside the magazine, and will be honored at the corresponding Most Influential Women in Arizona celebration dinner on Thursday, Aug. 22, at Chateau Luxe at 1175 E. Lone Cactus Drive, Phoenix, 85024.

Celebrating World Indigenous Peoples Day: Honoring Jacob Casoose’s Journey

Jacob Casoose is more than just a valued employee; he is a loving husband, devoted father, cherished brother, and a friend to many. As a proud member of the San Carlos Apache Tribe, Jacob understands the unique challenges Indigenous communities face in finding meaningful employment and opportunities.

Pioneering Progress: The Mini Work Deck at #10 Shaft

At Resolution Copper, innovation drives us forward. Our latest advancement, the Mini Work Deck for the #10 Shaft, exemplifies our commitment to improving safety, efficiency, and productivity in mining operations.

Celebrating Unity and Achievement: A Week to Remember at NABINation

As the 21st Annual Native American Basketball Invitational (NABI) drew to a close, we at Resolution Copper were in awe of a truly unique week of empowerment, community, and celebration. Being the presenting sponsor for this year's event, held in Phoenix, Arizona, was an honor and a rare and profound privilege for our team and tribal employees.

Successful Completion of No. 9 Shaft Sinking Galloway Project

We are thrilled to announce the successful completion of the No. 9 Shaft Sinking Galloway project, a critical endeavor that brings the No. 9 Shaft up to the 2024 standards of Resolution Copper, Rio Tinto, and Redpath. This project was essential to ensure the safe deepening of No. 9 Shaft, involving comprehensive structural and electrical upgrades.

Resolution Copper 2023 Yearend Review

Throughout my career with Resolution Copper, I have been constantly impressed by the hundreds of people who keep the operation running, and 2023 was no different. In becoming President and General Manager in March 2023, I’ve continued to see the best of our team