Ares Strategic Mining Advances Construction of First US Fluorspar Processing Plant in Utah
Ares Strategic Mining's construction progress on its Utah fluorspar plant marks a critical step toward establishing domestic supply for industries including steel manufacturing, refrigerants, and semiconductors, reducing reliance on imports.
Ares Strategic Mining Inc. has reached advanced construction stages for its Lumps Plant at the Lost Sheep Fluorspar Project in Utah, positioning the facility as the only domestic fluorspar processing operation in the United States. The development represents a significant milestone in securing North American supply chains for critical minerals essential to multiple industries.
Construction progress includes completed concrete foundations and pads, erected steel frame structures across multiple plant areas, and fabricated major vessels welded into place as core processing infrastructure. Conveyor systems are being assembled and mounted with visible segments installed across the site, while additional structural supports are being bolted into position to accommodate heavy mechanical systems.
CEO James Walker stated, "This is a pivotal moment in our construction timeline. With the plant now physically taking shape, we are progressing from concept to reality. Every welded beam and poured foundation brings us one step closer to production." The company remains on track to become the first fluorspar producer in the country, addressing growing market demand for domestic critical mineral sources.
The Lumps Plant will produce high-purity fluorspar for North American markets including steel and aluminum manufacturing, refrigerants and fluoropolymers, and critical minerals supply for nuclear fuel and semiconductors. Ares is building modular, scalable infrastructure that will allow for increased throughput and processing control as part of its ramp-up strategy.
Looking ahead, construction efforts are expected to lead to completion of structural assembly and conveyor installation, initiation of equipment fit-out and wiring, testing and commissioning of plant systems, and on-site ore stockpiling with initial feed into processing systems. The company continues to work with engineering partners and construction contractors to achieve production and revenue targets aligned with market demand.
The Lost Sheep Fluorspar Project, located in the Spor Mountain area of Juab County, Utah, comprises 5,982 acres with 353 claims and is fully permitted for mining operations. A NI 43-101 Technical Report identified extensive high-grade fluorspar with low impurity levels, supporting the company's development strategy based on historical engineering work, geological reports, and production data.