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Mining industry

A New Mining Revolution: Drilling Begins for Critically Important Metal Tungsten

Strategic Insights

— 1 min read

A long-awaited milestone has been reached in Cornwall as drilling starts at the Redmoor Tungsten-Tin-Copper Project, sparking hopes for a resurgence in mining in the region. The project, operated by Cornwall Resources Limited (CRL), aims to explore for resources of tungsten, tin, and copper in the Tamar Valley licence areas. Tungsten, a key component of lightbulbs and industrial cutting tools, has seen its use decline in recent years due to energy efficiency concerns, but its unique properties make it a vital material for various high-performance applications.

Key Takeaways:

  • Drilling has started at the Redmoor Tungsten-Tin-Copper Project, with three initial boreholes expected to take up to three months to complete.
  • A total of nine boreholes will be drilled, with the addition of another rig for a further three months, as part of the project.
  • The resurgence of mining in Cornwall has seen the return of South Crofty as a viable tin mine, with hopes of restarting tin production by the end of 2027.
  • Cornwall Resources Limited (CRL) has highlighted the importance of tungsten, stating it is "essential" for high-performance applications in industries such as aerospace and defence.
  • The project has been part-funded with a UK government grant, demonstrating the government's support for the mining industry.
  • Tungsten has the highest melting point of all metals and is alloyed with other metals to strengthen them, making it a crucial material for various industries.

Statistics:

  • Three boreholes are currently being drilled at the Redmoor Tungsten-Tin-Copper Project, with a further six to be drilled over the next three months.
  • The project has been part-funded with a UK government grant, although the exact amount has not been disclosed.
  • The highest meling point of tungsten is 3422 degrees Celsius (6199 degrees Fahrenheit).
  • Tungsten is used in various high-performance applications, including industrial cutting tools, aerospace, and defence.

Sources:

  • Cornwall Resources Limited (CRL)
  • Dennis Rowland, CRL project manager
  • The London Stock Exchange
  • The Royal Society of Chemistry
  • UK government grant (no specific information provided)

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