Ares Strategic Mining Advances Construction of Domestic Fluorspar Processing Plant

Ares Strategic Mining Inc. has provided a major construction update on its Lumps Plant at the Lost Sheep Fluorspar Project in Utah, representing a critical development for domestic supply of this essential industrial mineral. The construction has progressed from foundations to framework stage with all concrete foundations and pads completed, steel frame structures being erected across multiple plant areas, major vessels fabricated and welded into place, conveyor systems assembled and mounted, and additional structural supports bolted into position for heavy mechanical systems.

This project holds national significance as it aims to become the only domestic fluorspar processing operation in the United States, reducing reliance on foreign sources for this critical mineral. CEO James Walker emphasized that this marks a pivotal moment in their construction timeline as the plant physically takes shape, progressing from concept to reality toward becoming the first fluorspar producer in the country. The company maintains it is firmly on track with its production schedule.

The Lumps Plant represents a strategic component in Ares' plan to produce high-purity fluorspar for North American markets, serving vital industries including steel and aluminum manufacturing, refrigerants and fluoropolymers, and critical minerals supply for nuclear fuel and semiconductors. The modular, scalable infrastructure being constructed will allow for increased throughput and processing control as market demand grows.

Current construction efforts are expected to lead to completion of structural assembly, installation of conveyors, 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 project benefits from ongoing support from engineering partners and construction contractors, with the company committed to achieving production and revenue targets aligned with market demand for critical minerals. The fully permitted project located in the Spor Mountain area of Juab County, Utah, covers 5,982 acres with 353 claims and has mining plans approved by the Bureau of Land Management.