Batu Alam completes FS for S. Sumatra coalmine

Mining company PT Batu Alam Selaras has completed the feasibility studies at its coal concession in Lahat Regency, South Sumatra, according to company official.

?Once the studies is approve by the directorate mining and geology, PT Batu Alam will conduct the environmental impact assessment (AMDAL),? company?s geologist Nesri Ardha told Petromindo.Com Monday.

Nesri said the company expected to start the construction stage in beginning of 2004.

?Commercial production is planned to start in mid 2004. It is expected to reach 20,000 tons per month and than to increase to 50,000 tons per month by the end of year,? Nesri told in a telephone interview.

Based on the feasibility studies, the coalmine contains a sub-bituminous coal reserve of around 13 million tons, he said.

He further said that the company would use state railway company PT Kereta Api Indonesia?s service to transport the company?s products to Kertapati terminal in South Sumatra. The 50,000-hectares mine site is located about 1.5 kilometers from the train terminal. (robert)

PT Batu Alam Selaras coal specification
Parameters	Value
Calorific Value kcal/kg	5,800 - 6,600
Inherent Moisture %	7 - 21?
Total Moisture %	20
Ash Content %	0.8 - 2.8
Volatile Matters %	37 - 50
Fixed Carbon %	34 - 40
Total Sulfur %	0.2 - 2.2
Hard Grove Index	41 - 51