REG - Rio Tinto - Rio Tinto second quarter production results <Origin Href="QuoteRef">RIO.L</Origin> - Part 1

Rio TintoAnnouncement

18/07/2017 07:05

RNS Number : 3137L
Rio Tinto PLC
17 July 2017
Rio Tinto releases second quarter production results
18 July 2017
Rio Tinto chief executive J-S Jacques said "This was a solid quarter for production, including record output at our bauxite operations. Iron ore production was in line with last year, although iron ore shipments were impacted by an acceleration in our rail maintenance programme following poor weather in the first quarter. We believe our focus on capital discipline, maximising cash flow from operations, driving productivity and portfolio shaping will continue to support the delivery of strong cash generation and shareholder returns." 


Q2 2017
vs Q2 2016
vs Q1 2017
H1 2017
vs H1 2016
Pilbara iron ore shipments (100% basis)
Mt
77.7
-6%
+1%
154.3
-3%
Pilbara iron ore production (100% basis)
Mt
79.8
-1%
+3%
157.0
-2%
Bauxite
kt
12,865
+7%
+14%
24,167
+4%
Aluminium 
kt
888
-1%
+0%
1,777
-0%
Mined copper
kt
124.7
-6%
+48%
208.9
-21%
Hard coking coal
kt
1,555
-14%
-2%
3,138
-17%
Semi-soft and thermal coal
kt
5,570
+7%
+7%
10,751
+5%
Titanium dioxide slag
kt
316
+34%
-5%
647
+34%
IOC iron ore pellets and concentrate
Mt
2.7
+4%
+4%
5.3
+5%
Highlights
 Pilbara iron ore shipments were 77.7 million tonnes in the second quarter (100 per cent basis). Shipments were impacted by accelerated rail track maintenance. 
 Iron ore shipments guidance for 2017 is around 330 million tonnes (previously 330 to 340 million tonnes). This takes into consideration first half production and further rail maintenance in the second half to improve track conditions. 
 Record quarterly bauxite production of 12.9 million tonnes was seven per cent higher than the corresponding quarter of 2016, driven by strong production at Weipa and Gove. Third party shipments of 8.0 million tonnes were achieved in the second quarter.
 Mined copper production recovered compared to the previous quarter, however was six per cent lower than the second quarter of 2016 as Escondida continued to ramp up following a labour strike. 
 Titanium dioxide slag production increased by 34 per cent compared to the second quarter of 2016, reflecting higher market demand. 
 On 26 June 2017, Rio Tinto confirmed Yancoal Australia as its preferred buyer of Coal & Allied, after an improved offer from Yancoal of $2.69 billion. Rio Tinto shareholders have since approved the sale. The sale is expected to complete in the third quarter of 2017. 
All figures in this report are unaudited. All currency figures in this report are US dollars, and comments refer to Rio Tinto's share of production, unless otherwise stated.To allow production numbers to be compared on a like-for-like basis, production from asset divestments completed in 2016 have been excluded from Rio Tinto share of production data but assets sold in 2017 remain in comparisons.

IRON ORE
Rio Tinto share of production (million tonnes)

Q2 2017
vs Q2 2016
vs Q1 2017
H1 2017
vs H1 2016
Pilbara Blend Lump
19.8
+6%
+3%
39.0
+4%
Pilbara Blend Fines
28.0
-3%
+4%
55.1
-4%
Robe Valley Lump
1.5
+1%
+0%
2.9
-3%
Robe Valley Fines
2.2
-20%
-6%
4.6
-19%
Yandicoogina Fines (HIY)
13.5
-8%
-1%
27.1
-3%
Total Pilbara production
65.0


128.7

Pilbara operations 
Pilbara operations produced 157.0 million tonnes (Rio Tinto share 128.7 million tonnes) in the first half of 2017, two per cent lower than the same period of 2016 reflecting adverse weather conditions in the first quarter. Second quarter production of 79.8 million tonnes (Rio Tinto share 65.0 million tonnes) was slightly lower than the same quarter of 2016 and three per cent higher than the first quarter due to fewer weather impacts. 
First half sales of 154.3 million tonnes (Rio Tinto share 127.2 million tonnes) were three per cent lower than the same period of 2016 due to weather impacts in the first quarter and accelerated rail maintenance activity in the second quarter. Second quarter sales of 77.7 million tonnes (Rio Tinto share 64.0 million tonnes) were six per cent lower than the same period of last year, also reflecting the rail maintenance.
Further rail maintenance will continue throughout the remainder of 2017, albeit at a lower level than in the second quarter. The expenditure, a portion of which is capital, is included within the Group's existing guidance. 
Approximately 19 per cent of sales in the quarter were priced with reference to the prior quarter's average index lagged by one month. The remainder was sold either on current quarter average, current month average or on the spot market. 
Approximately 64 per cent of sales in the quarter were made on a cost and freight (CFR) basis, with the remainder sold free on board (FOB).
Achieved average pricing in the first half of 2017 was $62.4 per wet metric tonne on an FOB basis (equivalent to $67.8 per dry metric tonne). In 2016, the full year price achieved was $49.3 per wet metric tonne (equivalent to $53.6 per dry metric tonne).
Pilbara projects
At the Silvergrass project, earthworks for the plant have been completed and installation of the conveyor is underway. Full commissioning remains on target for the fourth quarter of this year.
The automation of the Pilbara train system (AutohaulTM) is continuing to progress well, with around 20 per cent of all train kilometres now completed in autonomous mode, but with drivers on-board managing the remaining safety and reliability systems. Improvements to system performance continue and the project is on schedule to be completed by the end of 2018.
2017 guidance
Rio Tinto's expected Pilbara shipments in 2017, subject to weather, are around 330 million tonnes (previously between 330 and 340 million tonnes) on a 100 per cent basis.
ALUMINIUM
Rio Tinto share of production ('000 tonnes)

Q2 2017
vs Q2 2016
vs Q1 2017
H1 2017
vs H1 2016
Rio Tinto Aluminium





Bauxite
12,865
+7%
+14%
24,167
+4%
Alumina 
2,024
-2%
-1%
4,070
-1%
Aluminium
888
-1%
0%
1,777
0%
Production from Lochaber in 2016 has been excluded from the comparable percentages above.
Bauxite
Bauxite production of 12.9 million tonnes was seven per cent higher than the second quarter of 2016 following record quarterly production at both Gove and Weipa. Gove production was 27 per cent higher than the second quarter of 2016 due to continued de-bottlenecking of capacity, whilst production at Weipa was three per cent higher. Production was 14 per cent higher than the first quarter of 2017 following recovery from severe weather conditions at Weipa, continued de-bottlenecking of capacity at Gove and strong performances at Porto Trombetas and Sangaredi.
The production performance enabled the Group to reach a second quarter and first half shipment record, with 8.0 million tonnes shipped to third parties in the second quarter of 2017, 12 per cent higher than the corresponding quarter of 2016. 
Amrun
The Amrun project is advancing to plan in both engineering and construction. Key construction activities have commenced, including piling for the jetty and wharf, whilst fabrication of the process plant and balanced machines is progressing well. The project remains on schedule for first shipment in the first half of 2019. 
Alumina
Alumina production for the quarter was slightly lower than the corresponding period in 2016. A strong performance at Vaudreuil was offset by reduced production at the Yarwun and Queensland Alumina refineries due to weather conditions and timing of major maintenance.
Aluminium
Quarterly aluminium production was one per cent lower than the second quarter of last year. Strong production was achieved across most smelters, offset by the production curtailment at the Boyne Island smelter in Australia due to high power prices in Queensland in the first half of 2017.
2017 guidance
Rio Tinto's share of production in 2017 is unchanged at 48 to 50 million tonnes of bauxite, 8.0 to 8.2 million tonnes of alumina and 3.5 to 3.7 million tonnes of aluminium.


COPPER & DIAMONDS
Rio Tinto share of production ('000 tonnes)

Q2 2017
vs Q2 2016
vs Q1 2017
H1 2017
vs H1 2016
Mined copper 





Rio Tinto Kennecott
44.0
+18%
-1%
88.2
+24%
Escondida
68.3
-12%
+152%
95.5
-39%
Grasberg
0.0
N/A
N/A
0.0
N/A
Oyu Tolgoi
12.5
-28%
-2%
25.2
-31%






Refined copper





Rio Tinto Kennecott
20.3
-17%
-32%
50.1
-1%
Escondida
18.8
-26%
+131%
27.0
-47%






Diamonds('000 carats)





Argyle
3,216
-8%
+7%
6,232
-9%
Diavik
1,119
+18%
-2%
2,255
+8%
Rio Tinto Kennecott
Mined copper production in the second quarter of 2017 was 18 per cent higher than the corresponding period of 2016, due to increased mining in the East Wall ore body. Refined copper production of 20.3 thousand tonnes was 17 per cent lower than the second quarter of 2016, reflecting a planned 27-day smelter shutdown which occurred during May. 
Kennecott tolls third party concentrate to optimise smelter utilisation, however no concentrate was received in the second quarter of 2017 due to the planned smelter shutdown. Tolled copper concentrate is excluded from reported production figures. 
The pushback of the south wall progressed during the quarter. 
Escondida
Mined and refined copper production at Escondida continued to ramp up in the second quarter following the labour union strike that occurred in the first quarter. As a result, mined copper (down 12 per cent) and refined copper (down 26 per cent) were lower than the corresponding quarter of 2016. Operations have now returned to normal production levels. As a consequence of the strike action, the commissioning of the Los Colorados Extension has been delayed, which is expected to impact Rio Tinto's share of production in the second half of 2017.
Oyu Tolgoi
Mined copper production for the quarter was, as anticipated, significantly lower than the same period in 2016 due to lower head grades and the drawdown of stockpiles. 
Oyu Tolgoi Underground Project
Contractor mobilisation has continued to ramp up, with a workforce of over 2,650 on site, 85 per cent of whom are Mongolian nationals. Construction of key underground facilities is on schedule, with commissioning in progress and underground mine development advancing. The accommodation camp, conveyor to surface decline, sinking of shaft #2 and shaft #5 continue to progress. Construction of the first draw-bell is still expected in mid-2020.
Grasberg
Through a joint venture agreement with Freeport-McMoRan Inc. (Freeport), Rio Tinto is entitled to the cash flow associated with 40 per cent of material mined above an agreed threshold as a consequence of expansions and developments of the Grasberg facilities since 1998.
On 12 January 2017, the Government of Indonesia issued new mining regulations to address exports of unrefined metals, including copper concentrates, and other matters related to the mining sector. These regulations impact PT Freeport Indonesia's ('PT-FI') operating rights, including its right to continue to export concentrate without restriction, and, as a result, may have a significant impact on Rio Tinto's share of production in 2017. Rio Tinto's full participation beyond 2021 is likely to be delayed due to the application of force majeure provisions in the joint venture agreement between Rio Tinto and PT-FI.
In April 2017, Freeport reached agreement with the Indonesian government to resume concentrate exports (which had been suspended) for a six-month period expiring in October 2017. During this period, Freeport will continue to negotiate the new operating licenses and investment stability agreement. Discussions are continuing between Freeport and the Indonesian government to reach a mutually satisfactory longer-term agreement.
Rio Tinto is reporting its metal share for the second quarter as zero. 
Provisional pricing
At 30 June 2017, the Group had an estimated 205 million pounds of copper sales that were provisionally priced at US 262 cents per pound. The final price of these sales will be determined during the second half of 2017. This compared with 235 million pounds of open shipments at 31 December 2016, provisionally priced at US 250 cents per pound.
Diamonds
At Argyle, second quarter carat production was eight per cent lower than the second quarter of 2016 due to lower ore volumes processed following wet weather and additional maintenance required in the second quarter of this year. 
At Diavik, carats recovered in the second quarter of 2017 were 18 per cent higher than the corresponding period in 2016 due to both higher processed volumes and higher recovered grades. Development of the A21 pipe remains on schedule.
2017 guidance
In 2017, Rio Tinto's expected share of mined copper production remains unchanged at between 500 and 550 thousand tonnes. Refined copper production guidance also remains unchanged at 185 to 225 thousand tonnes. 
Diamond production guidance for 2017 remains unchanged at 19 to 24 million carats.


ENERGY & MINERALS
Rio Tinto share of production 

Q2 2017
vs Q2 2016
vs Q1 2017
H1 2017
vs H1 2016
Coal





Hard coking coal
1,555
-14%
-2%
3,138
-17%
Semi-soft coking coal
616
-31%
-36%
1,575
-24%
Thermal coal
4,954
+15%
+17%
9,176
+13%






Iron ore pellets and concentrate (million tonnes)





IOC
2.7
+4%
+4%
5.3
+5%






Minerals ('000 tonnes)





Borates - B2O3 content
133
+8%
+9%
256
+2%
Salt
1,476
+32%
+73%
2,327
-9%
Titanium dioxide slag
316
+34%
-5%
647
+34%






Uranium ('000 lbs)





Energy Resources of Australia
678
-8%
-25%
1,577
-3%
Rssing
860
+23%
+28%
1,534
+10%
Production from Bengalla in 2016 has been excluded from the comparable percentages above.
Coal
Hard coking coal production in the quarter was 14 per cent below the second quarter of 2016 due to the impact of Cyclone Debbie on Hail Creek, where pit access was restricted by water. 
Second quarter semi-soft coking coal production was 31 per cent lower than the same quarter of 2016, reflecting mine production sequencing changes at Hunter Valley Operations and Mount Thorley Warkworth following lower market demand for semi-soft coking coal. 
Thermal coal production was 15 per cent higher than the same quarter of 2016, due to mine sequencing at Hunter Valley Operations as well as an increased focus on thermal coal production at Hail Creek as a result of Cyclone Debbie. 
On 26 June 2017, Rio Tinto confirmed Yancoal Australia as its preferred buyer of Coal & Allied, given its level of completion certainty and a further improved offer of $2.69 billion. The transaction was approved by Rio Tinto shareholders at general meetings of Rio Tinto plc and Rio Tinto Limited on 27 and 29 June 2017, respectively.The assets are being treated as held for sale from 1 February 2017, from which time no depreciation or amortisation is being recorded. The transaction is expected to complete in the third quarter of 2017. 
Iron Ore Company of Canada (IOC)
IOC pellet production of 2.4 million tonnes (Rio Tinto share 1.4 million tonnes) in the second quarter was marginally higher than the same quarter of 2016, with pellet demand continuing to be strong and product mix being optimised to meet customer demand. Concentrate production for sale of 2.2 million tonnes (Rio Tinto share 1.3 million tonnes) was eight per cent higher than the second quarter of 2016. 
Borates
Borates production in the quarter was eight per cent higher than the second quarter of 2016, with production aligned to market demand.
Iron and Titanium (RTIT)
Titanium dioxide slag production in the second quarter was 34 per cent higher than the corresponding quarter in 2016, reflecting higher market demand. The rebuild of a furnace at Rio Tinto Fer et Titane (RTFT) leaves only one of nine furnaces at RTFT idle, along with one of four furnaces at Richards Bay Minerals. RTFT expects to operate eight furnaces for the remainder of the year, compared with seven in 2016.
Salt
Salt production in the second quarter was 32 per cent higher than the same period in 2016, with production increased to make up for the significant weather impacts in the first quarter.
Uranium
Energy Resources of Australia continues to process existing stockpiles. Second quarter production in 2017 was eight per cent lower than the corresponding period in 2016. 
Production at Rssing was 23 per cent higher than the second quarter in 2016 due to higher grades.
2017 guidance
Guidance for Rio Tinto's expected share of 2017 production for hard coking coal is revised to 7.2 to 7.8 million tonnes (previously 7.8 to 8.4 million tonnes) due to the impact of Cyclone Debbie. Otherwise, guidance for Rio Tinto's expected share of 2017 production is unchanged at 3.3 to 3.9 million tonnes of semi-soft coking coal, 17 to 18 million tonnes of thermal coal, 11.4 to 12.4 million tonnes of iron ore pellets and concentrates, 0.5 million tonnes of boric oxide equivalent production, 1.2 to 1.3 million tonnes of titanium dioxide slag, and 6.5 to 7.5 million pounds of uranium. Coal guidance may be adjusted depending on the timing of the completion of the Coal & Allied transaction. 
CORPORATE
Rio Tinto successfully completed a bond buy-back programme launched in May, reducing gross debt by $2.5 billion (nominal value). The early redemption costs will decrease first half earnings by approximately $180 million and cash flow from operating activities by approximately $260 million. These reductions will be offset by savings in future periods.


EXPLORATION AND EVALUATION
Pre-tax and pre-divestment expenditure on exploration and evaluation charged to the profit and loss account in the first half of 2017 was $175 million, compared with $267 million in the first half of 2016. Approximately 50 per cent of this expenditure was incurred by central exploration, 29 per cent by Copper & Diamonds, 11 per cent by Energy & Minerals and the remainder by Iron Ore and Aluminium. 
There were no significant divestments of central exploration properties in the second quarter of 2017.
Exploration highlights
Rio Tinto has a strong portfolio of projects with activity in 15 countries across some eight commodities. The bulk of the exploration spend in this quarter was focused on copper targets in Australia, Chile, Kazakhstan, Mongolia, Papa New Guinea, Peru, Serbia, United States and Zambia. Mine-lease exploration continued at a number of Rio Tinto managed businesses including Pilbara Iron, Richards Bay Minerals, Oyu Tolgoi, Kennecott and Weipa.
A summary of activity for the quarter is as follows:
Product Group
Evaluation
projects
Advanced
projects
Greenfield 
programmes
Aluminium
Cape York, Australia 
Amargosa, Brazil
Australia, Laos
Copper & Diamonds
Copper/molybdenum: Resolution, US
Copper: La Granja, Peru
Copper/gold: Oyu Tolgoi, Mongolia 
Nickel: Tamarack, US
Diamonds: Fort a la Corne, Canada
Copper: Australia, Botswana, Chile, Kazakhstan, Mongolia, Namibia, Papua New Guinea, Peru, Serbia, US, Zambia
Nickel: Australia, Canada
Diamonds: Canada
Energy & Minerals
Lithium borates: Jadar, Serbia
Heavy mineral sands: Mutamba, Mozambique and Zulti South, South Africa 
Iron Ore: Simandou, Guinea 
Uranium: Roughrider, Canada
Potash: KP405, Canada
Uranium: Canada
Heavy Minerals: Madimba, Tanzania
Iron Ore
Pilbara, Australia
Pilbara, Australia



Forward-looking statements
This announcement may include "forward-looking statements" within the meaning of the US Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. All statements other than statements of historical facts included in this announcement, including, without limitation, those regarding Rio Tinto's production forecast or guidance, financial position, business strategy, plans and objectives of management for future operations (including development plans and objectives relating to Rio Tinto's products and reserve and resource positions), are forward-looking statements. The words "intend", "aim", "project", "anticipate", "estimate", "plan", "believes", "expects", "may", "should", "will", "target", "set to", "assumes" or similar expressions, commonly identify such forward looking statements.
Such forward-looking statements involve known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors which may cause the actual production, performance or results of Rio Tinto to be materially different from any future production, performance or results expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements. Such forward-looking statements could be influenced by such risk factors as identified in Rio Tinto's most recent Annual Report and Accounts in Australia and the United Kingdom and the most recent Annual Report on Form 20-F filed with the United States Securities and Exchange Commission (the "SEC") or Form 6-Ks furnished to, or filed with, the SEC. Forward-looking statements should, therefore, be construed in light of such risk factors and undue reliance should not be placed on forward-looking statements. These forward-looking statements speak only as of the date of this announcement. Rio Tinto expressly disclaims any obligation or undertaking (except as required by applicable law, the UK Listing Rules, the Disclosure and Transparency Rules of the Financial Conduct Authority and the Listing Rules of the Australian Securities Exchange) to release publicly any updates or revisions to any forward-looking statement contained herein to reflect any change in Rio Tinto's expectations with regard thereto or any change in events, conditions or circumstances on which any such statement is based.
Nothing in this announcement should be interpreted to mean that future earnings per share of Rio Tinto plc or Rio Tinto Limited will necessarily match or exceed its historical published earnings per share. 


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United Kingdom
T +44 20 7781 2000
Registered in England 
No. 719885
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Australia 
T +61 3 9283 3333
Registered in Australia
ABN 96 004 458 404


Rio Tinto production summary












Rio Tinto share of production














Quarter

Half Year

% Change


2016
Q2
2017
Q1
2017
Q2

2016
H1
2017
H1

Q2 17
vs
Q2 16
Q2 17
vs
Q1 17
H1 17
vs
H1 16
Principal Commodities










Alumina
('000 t)
2,067
2,047
2,024

4,107
4,070

-2%
-1%
-1%
Aluminium
('000 t)
899
889
888

1,773
1,777

-1%
0%
0%
Bauxite
('000 t)
12,073
11,303
12,865

23,160
24,167

7%
14%
4%
Borates
('000 t)
123
123
133

250
256

8%
9%
2%
Coal - hard coking
('000 t)
1,798
1,583
1,555

3,780
3,138

-14%
-2%
-17%
Coal - semi-soft coking
('000 t)
893
959
616

2,067
1,575

-31%
-36%
-24%
Coal - thermal
('000 t)
4,323
4,222
4,954

8,128
9,176

15%
17%
13%
Copper - mined
('000 t)
132.2
84.2
124.7

265.1
208.9

-6%
48%
-21%
Copper - refined
('000 t)
50.2
38.0
39.1

101.4
77.1

-22%
3%
-24%
Diamonds
('000 cts)
4,436
4,152
4,335

8,959
8,487

-2%
4%
-5%
Iron Ore
('000 t)
68,886
66,226
67,699

136,257
133,925

-2%
2%
-2%
Titanium dioxide slag
('000 t)
236
332
316

481
647

34%
-5%
34%
Uranium
('000 lbs)
1,439
1,573
1,538

3,020
3,111

7%
-2%
3%
Other Metals & Minerals










Gold - mined
('000 oz)
62.4
65.8
72.5

146.1
138.3

16%
10%
-5%
Gold - refined
('000 oz)
35.3
51.1
43.0

65.1
94.2

22%
-16%
45%
Molybdenum
('000 t)
0.2
0.9
0.8

0.3
1.6

337%
-12%
460%
Salt
('000 t)
1,117
852
1,476

2,555
2,327

32%
73%
-9%
Silver - mined
('000 oz)
1,022
946
1,118

1,960
2,064

9%
18%
5%
Silver - refined
('000 oz)
587
402
729

935
1,131

24%
82%
21%












Throughout this report, figures in italics indicate adjustments made since the figure was previously quoted on the equivalent page. Production figures are sometimes more precise than the rounded numbers shown, hence small differences may result between the total of the quarter figures and the year to date figures.


Rio Tinto share of production










RioTinto
interest
Q2
2016
Q3
2016
Q4
2016
Q1
2017
Q2
2017
H1
2016
H1
2017









ALUMINA








Production ('000 tonnes)








Jonquire (Vaudreuil)
100%
353
355
367
367
365
730
732
Jonquire (Vaudreuil) specialty Alumina plant
100%
29
29
31
31
32
54
63
Queensland Alumina
80%
769
758
789
739
756
1,531
1,496
So Luis (Alumar)
10%
93
92
96
89
93
183
183
Yarwun
100%
823
747
821
819
778
1,608
1,597
Rio Tinto total alumina production

2,067
1,981
2,104
2,047
2,024
4,107
4,070









ALUMINIUM








Production ('000 tonnes)








Australia - Bell Bay
100%
45
46
47
45
47
89
91
Australia - Boyne Island
59%
86
87
87
80
73
172
154
Australia - Tomago
52%
76
77
77
75
76
150
151
Canada - six wholly owned
100%
398
404
405
394
397
773
791
Canada - Alouette (Sept-les)
40%
61
61
61
60
60
122
119
Canada - Bcancour
25%
27
29
28
28
26
55
55
France - Dunkerque
100%
69
71
71
70
71
138
141
Iceland - ISAL (Reykjavik)
100%
52
51
52
52
53
101
104
New Zealand - Tiwai Point
79%
67
68
68
66
67
133
133
Oman - Sohar
20%
19
19
19
19
19
39
38
Rio Tinto total aluminium production

899
911
915
889
888
1,773
1,777









BAUXITE








Production ('000 tonnes) (a)








Gove
100%
2,186
2,521
2,169
2,388
2,780
4,400
5,168
PortoTrombetas
12%
470
533
516
357
489
927
845
Sangaredi
 (b)
1,857
1,726
1,735
1,665
1,791
3,749
3,455
Weipa
100%
7,560
7,642
7,700
6,893
7,805
14,084
14,699
Rio Tinto total bauxite production
12,073
12,422
12,120
11,303
12,865
23,160
24,167


Rio Tinto share of production










RioTinto
interest
Q2
2016
Q3
2016
Q4
2016
Q1
2017
Q2
2017
H1
2016
H1
2017









BORATES








Production ('000 tonnes B2O3 content)








Rio Tinto Borates - borates
100%
123
132
121
123
133
250
256









COAL - hard coking








Rio Tinto Coal Australia ('000 tonnes)








Hail Creek Coal (c)
82%
1,202
1,248
1,205
930
822
2,425
1,752
Kestrel Coal (c)
80%
596
926
981
653
733
1,354
1,386
Rio Tinto total hard coking coal production
1,798
2,175
2,187
1,583
1,555
3,780
3,138









COAL - semi-soft coking








Rio Tinto Coal Australia ('000 tonnes)








Hunter Valley (d)
68%
440
842
581
541
192
1,117
733
Mount Thorley (d)
80%
331
150
283
269
311
694
581
Warkworth (d)
56%
121
75
106
149
112
256
261
Rio Tinto total semi-soft coking coal production
893
1,066
969
959
616
2,067
1,575









COAL - thermal








Rio Tinto Coal Australia ('000 tonnes)








Hail Creek Coal (c)
82%
661
787
746
874
881
1,555
1,754
Hunter Valley (d)
68%
2,098
1,596
1,724
1,927
2,393
3,462
4,320
Kestrel Coal (c)
80%
96
225
217
127
141
235
268
Mount Thorley (d)
80%
252
606
828
450
597
801
1,047
Warkworth (d)
56%
1,216
1,131
739
845
943
2,074
1,787
Rio Tinto total thermal coal production

4,323
4,346
4,254
4,222
4,954
8,128
9,176


Rio Tinto share of production










RioTinto
interest
Q2
2016
Q3
2016
Q4
2016
Q1
2017
Q2
2017
H1
2016
H1
2017









COPPER








Mine production ('000 tonnes) (a)








Bingham Canyon
100%
37.2
36.2
45.1
44.3
44.0
71.4
88.2
Escondida
30%
77.7
72.6
73.4
27.2
68.3
157.1
95.5
Grasberg - Joint Venture (e)
40%
0.0
0.0
0.0
0.0
0.0
0.0
0.0
Oyu Tolgoi (f)
34%
17.3
15.6
15.2
12.8
12.5
36.6
25.2
Rio Tinto total mine production

132.2
124.4
133.8
84.2
124.7
265.1
208.9
Refined production ('000 tonnes)







Escondida
30%
25.6
21.2
21.5
8.2
18.8
51.0
27.0
Rio Tinto Kennecott
100%
24.6
39.1
67.0
29.8
20.3
50.4
50.1
Rio Tinto total refined production
50.2
60.2
88.4
38.0
39.1
101.4
77.1









DIAMONDS








Production ('000 carats)








Argyle
100%
3,489
3,493
3,584
3,016
3,216
6,880
6,232
Diavik
60%
948
927
989
1,136
1,119
2,078
2,255
Rio Tinto total diamond production

4,436
4,420
4,574
4,152
4,335
8,959
8,487









GOLD








Mine production ('000 ounces) (a)








Bingham Canyon
100%
28.3
41.5
57.2
54.1
54.3
54.5
108.4
Escondida
30%
10.8
8.3
11.3
3.4
10.2
20.2
13.6
Grasberg - Joint Venture (e)
40%
0.0
0.0
0.0
0.0
0.0
0.0
0.0
Oyu Tolgoi (f)
34%
23.3
12.5
16.6
8.3
8.0
71.4
16.3
Rio Tinto total mine production

62.4
62.3
85.1
65.8
72.5
146.1
138.3
Refined production ('000 ounces)







Rio Tinto Kennecott
100%
35.3
29.7
40.6
51.1
43.0
65.1
94.2


Rio Tinto share of production










RioTinto
interest
Q2
2016
Q3
2016
Q4
2016
Q1
2017
Q2
2017
H1
2016
H1
2017









IRON ORE








Production ('000 tonnes) (a)







Hamersley mines
 (g)
50,284
52,302
54,848
48,664
48,674
98,753
97,338
Hamersley - Channar
60%
1,432
1,764
1,119
1,635
1,903
2,955
3,538
Hope Downs
50%
5,924
5,888
5,794
5,218
6,287
11,823
11,505
Iron Ore Company of Canada
59%
2,573
2,925
2,743
2,579
2,683
4,993
5,262
Robe River - Pannawonica (Mesas J and A)
53%
4,221
4,208
4,493
3,809
3,676
8,671
7,486
Robe River - West Angelas
53%
4,452
4,344
4,636
4,322
4,475
9,063
8,797
Rio Tinto iron ore production ('000 tonnes)

68,886
71,431
73,633
66,226
67,699
136,257
133,925
Breakdown of Production:








Pilbara Blend Lump

18,628
19,957
20,443
19,207
19,780
37,360
38,987
Pilbara Blend Fines

28,823
29,591
30,795
27,026
28,049
57,174
55,074
Robe Valley Lump

1,440
1,484
1,625
1,453
1,459
3,013
2,912
Robe Valley Fines

2,781
2,725
2,868
2,357
2,217
5,657
4,574
Yandicoogina Fines (HIY)

14,640
14,750
15,159
13,605
13,512
28,059
27,116
Pilbara iron ore production ('000 tonnes)

66,313
68,506
70,890
63,647
65,016
131,265
128,663
IOC Concentrate

1,207
1,334
1,124
1,109
1,299
2,449
2,408
IOC Pellets

1,366
1,591
1,618
1,470
1,384
2,544
2,854
IOC iron ore production ('000 tonnes)

2,573
2,925
2,743
2,579
2,683
4,993
5,262
Breakdown of Sales:








Pilbara Blend Lump

17,552
17,014
18,071
16,033
18,218
32,844
34,251
Pilbara Blend Fines

31,025
30,132
34,842
30,497
28,779
61,547
59,276
Robe Valley Lump

1,276
1,346
1,502
1,176
1,262
2,548
2,438
Robe Valley Fines

2,927
3,069
3,053
2,373
2,370
5,820
4,743
Yandicoogina Fines (HIY)

14,553
15,008
14,969
13,120
13,371
27,086
26,491
Pilbara iron ore sales ('000 tonnes)

67,333
66,569
72,437
63,199
64,000
129,845
127,199
IOC Concentrate

1,261
1,281
1,148
1,193
939
2,470
2,132
IOC Pellets

1,413
1,516
1,764
1,415
1,489
2,582
2,904
IOC Iron ore sales ('000 tonnes)

2,674
2,797
2,912
2,608
2,428
5,052
5,036
Rio Tinto iron ore sales ('000 tonnes)
70,007
69,366
75,350
65,806
66,428
134,897
132,234


Rio Tinto share of production










RioTinto
interest
Q2
2016
Q3
2016
Q4
2016
Q1
2017
Q2
2017
H1
2016
H1
2017









MOLYBDENUM








Mine production ('000 tonnes) (a)







Bingham Canyon
100%
0.2
0.8
1.8
0.9
0.8
0.3
1.6









SALT








Production ('000 tonnes)








Dampier Salt
68%
1,117
1,240
1,386
852
1,476
2,555
2,327









SILVER








Mine production ('000 ounces) (a)







Bingham Canyon
100%
329
522
751
711
669
671
1,380
Escondida
30%
562
369
397
163
370
1,026
533
Grasberg - Joint Venture (e)
40%
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
Oyu Tolgoi (f)
34%
131
121
91
72
79
264
151
Rio Tinto total mine production

1,022
1,011
1,239
946
1,118
1,960
2,064
Refined production ('000 ounces)







Rio Tinto Kennecott
100%
587
415
465
402
729
935
1,131









TITANIUM DIOXIDE SLAG








Production ('000 tonnes)








Rio Tinto Iron & Titanium (h)
100%
236
267
300
332
316
481
647









URANIUM








Production ('000 lbs U3O8) (i)







Energy Resources of Australia
68%
738
1,004
908
900
678
1,631
1,577
Rssing
69%
702
628
781
673
860
1,389
1,534
Rio Tinto total uranium production
1,439
1,633
1,690
1,573
1,538
3,020
3,111











Production data notes:
Production figures are sometimes more precise than the rounded numbers shown, hence small differences may result between the total of the quarter figures and the year to date figures. 










(a) Mine production figures for metals refer to the total quantity of metal produced in concentrates, leach liquor or dor bullion irrespective of whether these products are then refined onsite, except for the data for bauxite and iron ore which represent production of marketable quantities of ore plus concentrates and pellets.
(b) Rio Tinto has a 22.95% shareholding in the Sangaredi mine but benefits from 45.0% of production.
(c) Kestrel and Hail Creek produce hard coking coal and thermal coal through their mining operations. Both mines may blend coal types at ports.
(d) On 24 January 2017, Rio Tinto announced a binding agreement to sell Coal & Allied, a wholly owned subsidiary of Rio Tinto Coal Australia (RTCA). This includes Coal & Allied's 67.6% interest in the Hunter Valley Operations mine, 80% interest in the Mount Thorley mine and 55.6% interest in the Warkworth mine. In an earlier restructuring of the Coal & Allied group completed on 3 February 2016, Rio Tinto had obtained 100% of Coal & Allied and retained a 67.6% interest in the newly created Hunter Valley Operations joint venture. Prior to restructuring, Rio Tinto's interest in the Hunter Valley Operations, Mt Thorley and Warkworth mines was 80%, 64% and 44.46% respectively.
(e) Through a joint venture agreement with Freeport-McMoRan (FCX), Rio Tinto is entitled to 40% of additional material mined as a consequence of expansions and developments of the Grasberg facilities since 1998.
(f) Rio Tinto owns a 33.52% indirect interest in Oyu Tolgoi through its 50.79% interest in Turquoise Hill Resources Ltd.
(g) Includes 100% of production from Paraburdoo, Mt Tom Price, Marandoo, Yandicoogina, Brockman, Nammuldi and the Eastern Range mines. Whilst Rio Tinto owns 54% of the Eastern Range mine, under the terms of the joint venture agreement, Hamersley Iron manages the operation and is obliged to purchase all mine production from the joint venture and therefore all of the production is included in Rio Tinto's share of production.
(h) Quantities comprise 100% of Rio Tinto Fer et Titane and Rio Tinto's 74% interest in Richards Bay Minerals (RBM).
(i) ERA and Rssing production reported are drummed U3O8.

The Rio Tinto percentage shown above is at 30 June 2017.









Rio Tinto's interest in the Lochaber aluminium smelter and Bengalla mine were sold in 2016. No data for these operations are included in the Share of production table.


Rio Tinto operational data










RioTinto
interest
Q2
2016
Q3
2016
Q4
2016
Q1
2017
Q2
2017
H1
2016
H1
2017









ALUMINA








Smelter Grade Alumina - Aluminium Group







Alumina production ('000 tonnes)








Australia








Queensland Alumina Refinery - Queensland
80.0%
961
947
987
924
946
1,914
1,870
Yarwun refinery - Queensland
100.0%
823
747
821
819
778
1,608
1,597
Brazil








So Luis (Alumar) refinery
10.0%
931
916
957
895
931
1,834
1,826
Canada








Jonquire (Vaudreuil) refinery - Quebec (a)
100.0%
353
355
367
367
365
730
732
(a) Jonquire's (Vaudreuil's) production shows smelter grade alumina only and excludes hydrate produced and used for specialty alumina.
Specialty Alumina - Aluminium Group







Specialty alumina production ('000 tonnes)







Canada








Jonquire (Vaudreuil) plant - Quebec
100.0%
29
29
31
31
32
54
63
Rio Tinto percentage interest shown above is at 30 June 2017. The data represent full production and sales on a 100% basis unless otherwise stated.


Rio Tinto operational data










RioTinto
interest
Q2
2016
Q3
2016
Q4
2016
Q1
2017
Q2
2017
H1
2016
H1
2017









ALUMINIUM








Primary Aluminium








Primary aluminium production ('000 tonnes)







Australia








Bell Bay smelter - Tasmania
100.0%
45
46
47
45
47
89
91
Boyne Island smelter - Queensland
59.4%
145
147
147
135
124
290
259
Tomago smelter - New South Wales
51.6%
147
149
149
145
147
292
292
Canada








Alma smelter - Quebec
100.0%
116
117
117
114
112
233
226
Alouette (Sept-les) smelter - Quebec
40.0%
152
152
153
149
149
304
298
Arvida smelter - Quebec
100.0%
43
43
43
41
43
86
84
Arvida AP60 smelter - Quebec
100.0%
15
15
15
15
15
30
29
Bcancour smelter - Quebec
25.1%
108
114
110
112
106
221
218
Grande-Baie smelter - Quebec
100.0%
56
58
58
57
57
112
114
Kitimat smelter - British Columbia
100.0%
107
109
109
107
109
190
216
Laterrire smelter - Quebec
100.0%
61
62
63
61
61
122
122
France








Dunkerque smelter
100.0%
69
71
71
70
71
138
141
Iceland








ISAL (Reykjavik) smelter
100.0%
52
51
52
52
53
101
104
New Zealand








Tiwai Point smelter
79.4%
84
85
85
84
84
168
168
Oman








Sohar smelter
20.0%
97
95
97
96
95
194
191
United Kingdom








Lochaber smelter (a)
0.0%
12
12
10
- 
- 
24 
- 
(a) On 16 December 2016, Rio Tinto completed the sale of its 100% interest in the Lochaber aluminium smelter.
Rio Tinto percentage interest shown above is at 30 June 2017. The data represent full production and sales on a 100% basis unless otherwise stated.


Rio Tinto operational data










RioTinto
interest
Q2
2016
Q3
2016
Q4
2016
Q1
2017
Q2
2017
H1
2016
H1
2017









BAUXITE








Bauxite production ('000 tonnes)








Australia








Gove mine - Northern Territory
100.0%
2,186
2,521
2,169
2,388
2,780
4,400
5,168
Weipa mine - Queensland
100.0%
7,560
7,642
7,700
6,893
7,805
14,084
14,699
Brazil








Porto Trombetas (MRN) mine
12.0%
3,920
4,441
4,296
2,974
4,071
7,725
7,045
Guinea








Sangaredi mine (a)
23.0%
4,126
3,836
3,856
3,699
3,979
8,331
7,678









Rio Tinto share of bauxite shipments







Share of total bauxite shipments ('000 tonnes)
11,683
12,743
11,996
11,605
12,164
22,836
23,769
Share of third party bauxite shipments ('000 tonnes)
7,101
8,093
7,345
6,927
7,962
13,870
14,890









(a) Rio Tinto has a 22.95% shareholding in the Sangaredi mine but benefits from 45.0% of production.
Rio Tinto percentage interest shown above is at 30 June 2017. The data represent full production and sales on a 100% basis unless otherwise stated.


Rio Tinto operational data










RioTinto
interest
Q2
2016
Q3
2016
Q4
2016
Q1
2017
Q2
2017
H1
2016
H1
2017









BORATES








Rio Tinto Borates - borates
100.0%







US








Borates ('000 tonnes) (a)

123
132
121
123
133
250
256
(a) Production is expressed as B2O3 content.









COAL








Rio Tinto Coal Australia








Bengalla mine (a)
0.0%







New South Wales








Thermal coal ('000 tonnes)

- 
- 
- 
- 
- 
1,476 
- 
Hail Creek Coal mine
82.0%







Queensland








Hard coking coal ('000 tonnes)

1,466
1,522
1,470
1,134
1,002
2,958
2,136
Thermal coal ('000 tonnes)

806
960
910
1,065
1,074
1,897
2,139
Hunter Valley Operations (b)
67.6%







New South Wales








Semi-soft coking coal ('000 tonnes)

651
1,245
859
800
284
1,616
1,084
Thermal coal ('000 tonnes)

3,104
2,361
2,550
2,851
3,539
5,014
6,390
Kestrel Coal mine
80.0%







Queensland








Hard coking coal ('000 tonnes)

745
1,158
1,227
816
916
1,693
1,732
Thermal coal ('000 tonnes)

120
281
271
159
177
293
335
Mount Thorley Operations (b)
80.0%







New South Wales








Semi-soft coking coal ('000 tonnes)

414
187
353
337
389
880
726
Thermal coal ('000 tonnes)

315
758
1,035
562
746
1,057
1,308
Rio Tinto percentage interest shown above is at 30 June 2017. The data represent full production and sales on a 100% basis unless otherwise stated.


Rio Tinto operational data










RioTinto
interest
Q2
2016
Q3
2016
Q4
2016
Q1
2017
Q2
2017
H1
2016
H1
2017









COAL (continued)








Warkworth mine (b)
55.6%







New South Wales








Semi-soft coking coal ('000 tonnes)

218
135
190
268
202
485
470
Thermal coal ('000 tonnes)

2,188
2,035
1,330
1,520
1,696
3,860
3,216
Total hard coking coal production ('000 tonnes)
2,210
2,680
2,697
1,950
1,918
4,650
3,869
Total semi-soft coking coal production ('000 tonnes)
1,284
1,567
1,402
1,405
875
2,981
2,280
Total thermal coal production ('000 tonnes)
6,533
6,395
6,096
6,156
7,232
13,598
13,388
Total coal production ('000 tonnes)

10,026
10,642
10,196
9,512
10,026
21,229
19,538









Total coal sales ('000 tonnes)

10,357
10,129
10,241
8,792
9,871
21,403
18,664
Rio Tinto Coal Australia share (c)








Share of hard coking coal sales ('000 tonnes)
1,879
2,332
2,395
1,524
1,717
3,977
3,241
Share of semi-soft coal sales ('000 tonnes) (d)
1,075
904
1,043
765
759
2,197
1,525
Share of thermal coal sales ('000 tonnes) (d)
4,260
3,958
3,979
3,946
4,539
8,547
8,486









(a) Rio Tinto sold its interest in the Bengalla Joint Venture with an effective date of 1 March 2016.
(b) On 24 January 2017, Rio Tinto announced a binding agreement to sell Coal & Allied, a wholly owned subsidiary of Rio Tinto Coal Australia (RTCA). This includes Coal & Allied's 67.6% interest in the Hunter Valley Operations mine, 80% interest in the Mount Thorley mine and 55.6% interest in the Warkworth mine. In an earlier restructuring of the Coal & Allied group completed on 3 February 2016, Rio Tinto had obtained 100% of Coal & Allied and retained a 67.6% interest in the newly created Hunter Valley Operations joint venture. Prior to restructuring, Rio Tinto's interest in the Hunter Valley Operations, Mt Thorley and Warkworth mines was 80%, 64% and 44.46% respectively.
(c) Kestrel and Hail Creek produce hard coking coal and thermal coal through their mining operations. Both mines may blend coal types at ports.
(d) Sales relate only to coal mined by the operations and exclude traded coal.
Rio Tinto percentage interest shown above is at 30 June 2017. The data represent full production and sales on a 100% basis unless otherwise stated.


Rio Tinto operational data










RioTinto
interest
Q2
2016
Q3
2016
Q4
2016
Q1
2017
Q2
2017
H1
2016
H1
2017









COPPER & GOLD








Escondida
30.0%







Chile








Sulphide ore to concentrator ('000 tonnes)
22,905
20,787
19,866
8,054
18,777
44,094
26,831
Average copper grade (%)

0.94
0.87
1.02
1.01
1.07
0.97
1.05
Mill production (metals in concentrates):








Contained copper ('000 tonnes)

181.7
153.2
168.6
67.7
167.0
357.5
234.7
Contained gold ('000 ounces)

36
28
38
11
34
67
45
Contained silver ('000 ounces)

1,874
1,229
1,323
543
1,234
3,418
1,777
Recoverable copper in ore stacked for leaching ('000 tonnes) (a)
77.4
88.9
76.4
22.8
60.7
166.1
83.5
Refined production from leach plants:








Copper cathode production ('000 tonnes)

85.3
70.5
71.5
27.2
62.8
170.1
90.0
(a) The calculation of copper in material mined for leaching is based on ore stacked at the leach pad.
Freeport-McMoRan Copper & Gold








Grasberg mine (a)
0.0% (b)







Papua, Indonesia








Ore treated ('000 tonnes)

14,141
16,608
15,630
7,849
17,018
28,390
24,867
Average mill head grades:








Copper (%)

0.84
1.02
1.08
1.15
0.99
0.77
1.04
Gold (g/t)

0.48
0.69
0.97
1.17
1.03
0.50
1.07
Silver (g/t)

2.88
3.45
3.67
5.26
2.47
2.55
3.35
Production of metals in concentrates:








Copper in concentrates ('000 tonnes)

106.5
153.8
153.1
81.0
152.0
192.4
233.0
Gold in concentrates ('000 ounces)

179
310
409
248
461
375
709
Silver in concentrates ('000 ounces)

776
1,170
1,237
667
800
1,388
1,467
Sales of payable metals in concentrates: (c)







Copper in concentrates ('000 tonnes)

96.8
153.7
140.6
61.7
162.3
183.7
224.0
Gold in concentrates ('000 ounces)

166
307
374
183
508
373
692
Silver in concentrates ('000 ounces)

562
928
907
404
738
1,073
1,142
(a) Through a joint venture agreement with Freeport-McMoRan (FCX), Rio Tinto is entitled to 40% of additional material mined as a consequence of expansions and developments of the Grasberg facilities since 1998. The Q2 2017 results show the forecast from FCX's most recent five-year plan, because FCX is not releasing its actual 100% operating data for Q2 2017 until the release of its 2017 second-quarter results on 25 July 2017.
(b) Rio Tinto share of Grasberg production is 40% of the expansion.
(c) Net of smelter deductions.
Rio Tinto percentage interest shown above is at 30 June 2017. The data represent full production and sales on a 100% basis unless otherwise stated.


Rio Tinto operational data










RioTinto
interest
Q2
2016
Q3
2016
Q4
2016
Q1
2017
Q2
2017
H1
2016
H1
2017









COPPER & GOLD (continued)








Rio Tinto Kennecott








Bingham Canyon mine
100.0%







Utah, US








Ore treated ('000 tonnes)

7,512
9,698
8,827
9,508
10,709
14,898
20,216
Average ore grade:








Copper (%)

0.55
0.41
0.56
0.51
0.47
0.53
0.49
Gold (g/t)

0.18
0.25
0.31
0.32
0.29
0.18
0.30
Silver (g/t)

1.70
2.56
3.33
3.24
2.66
1.78
2.93
Molybdenum (%)

0.023
0.031
0.040
0.025
0.025
0.019
0.025
Copper concentrates produced ('000 tonnes)
152
154
190
189
205
304
394
Average concentrate grade (% Cu)

24.5
23.4
23.8
23.3
21.5
23.4
22.4
Production of metals in copper concentrates:







Copper ('000 tonnes) (a)

37.2
36.2
45.1
44.3
44.0
71.4
88.2
Gold ('000 ounces)

28
41
57
54
54
54
108
Silver ('000 ounces)

329
522
751
711
669
671
1,380
Molybdenum concentrates produced ('000 tonnes):
0.3
1.6
3.4
1.7
1.5
0.6
3.2
Molybdenum in concentrates ('000 tonnes)

0.2
0.8
1.8
0.9
0.8
0.3
1.6
Kennecott smelter & refinery
100.0%







Copper concentrates smelted ('000 tonnes)
167
220
207
136
160
325
296
Copper anodes produced ('000 tonnes) (b)
33.1
56.1
42.7
33.7
32.6
65.0
66.3
Production of refined metal:








Copper ('000 tonnes)

24.6
39.1
67.0
29.8
20.3
50.4
50.1
Gold ('000 ounces) (c)

35.3
29.7
40.6
51.1
43.0
65.1
94.2
Silver ('000 ounces) (c)

587
415
465
402
729
935
1,131
(a) Includes a small amount of copper in precipitates.
(b) New metal excluding recycled material.
(c) Includes gold and silver in intermediate products.
Rio Tinto percentage interest shown above is at 30 June 2017. The data represent full production and sales on a 100% basis unless otherwise stated.


Rio Tinto operational data










RioTinto
interest
Q2
2016
Q3
2016
Q4
2016
Q1
2017
Q2
2017
H1
2016
H1
2017









COPPER & GOLD (continued)








Turquoise Hill Resources








Oyu Tolgoi mine (a)
33.5%







Mongolia








Ore Treated ('000 tonnes)

9,525
9,146
9,819
10,087
9,637
19,187
19,724
Average mill head grades:








Copper (%)

0.64
0.66
0.61
0.51
0.51
0.67
0.51
Gold (g/t)

0.33
0.21
0.25
0.15
0.16
0.48
0.15
Silver (g/t)

1.92
1.99
1.50
1.30
1.38
1.92
1.34
Copper concentrates produced ('000 tonnes)
207.1
203.2
206.7
176.0
171.0
436.6
347.0
Average concentrate grade (% Cu)

24.9
22.9
22.0
21.6
21.8
25.0
21.7
Production of metals in concentrates:








Copper in concentrates ('000 tonnes)

51.7
46.6
45.5
38.1
37.2
109.2
75.3
Gold in concentrates ('000 ounces)

69.6
37.4
49.4
24.8
23.9
213.2
48.6
Silver in concentrates ('000 ounces)

391
361
273
215
236
786
450
Sales of metals in concentrates:








Copper in concentrates ('000 tonnes)

54.4
45.7
37.6
39.5
37.3
105.7
76.7
Gold in concentrates ('000 ounces)

95
38
39
32
23
270
55
Silver in concentrates ('000 ounces)

395
341
239
205
222
700
427
(a) Rio Tinto owns a 33.52% indirect interest in Oyu Tolgoi through its 50.79% interest in Turquoise Hill Resources.
Rio Tinto percentage interest shown above is at 30 June 2017. The data represent full production and sales on a 100% basis unless otherwise stated.


Rio Tinto operational data










RioTinto
interest
Q2
2016
Q3
2016
Q4
2016
Q1
2017
Q2
2017
H1
2016
H1
2017









DIAMONDS








Argyle Diamonds
100.0%







Western Australia








AK1 ore processed ('000 tonnes)

1,314
1,349
1,283
1,144
1,112
2,465
2,256
AK1 diamonds produced ('000 carats)

3,489
3,493
3,584
3,016
3,216
6,880
6,232
Diavik Diamonds
60.0%







Northwest Territories, Canada








Ore processed ('000 tonnes)

535
582
539
531
556
1,092
1,086
Diamonds recovered ('000 carats)

1,579
1,545
1,649
1,894
1,865
3,464
3,758

Rio Tinto percentage interest shown above is at 30 June 2017. The data represent full production and sales on a 100% basis unless otherwise stated.


Rio Tinto operational data










RioTinto
interest
Q2
2016
Q3
2016
Q4
2016
Q1
2017
Q2
2017
H1
2016
H1
2017









IRON ORE








Rio Tinto Iron Ore








Western Australia








Pilbara Operations








Saleable iron ore production ('000 tonnes)







Hamersley mines
 (a)
50,284
52,302
54,848
48,664
48,674
98,753
97,338
Hamersley - Channar
60.0%
2,386
2,941
1,866
2,725
3,172
4,925
5,896
Hope Downs
50.0%
11,847
11,775
11,588
10,435
12,575
23,647
23,010
Robe River - Pannawonica (Mesas J and A)
53.0%
7,964
7,940
8,477
7,188
6,936
16,360
14,124
Robe River - West Angelas
53.0%
8,400
8,196
8,748
8,154
8,444
17,101
16,598
Total production ('000 tonnes)

80,882
83,154
85,526
77,165
79,801
160,784
156,966
Breakdown of total production:








Pilbara Blend Lump

23,180
24,478
24,902
23,618
24,671
46,536
48,288
Pilbara Blend Fines

35,098
35,986
36,988
32,755
34,682
69,830
67,437
Robe Valley Lump

2,717
2,799
3,066
2,741
2,753
5,685
5,494
Robe Valley Fines

5,248
5,141
5,411
4,446
4,183
10,674
8,630
Yandicoogina Fines (HIY)

14,640
14,750
15,159
13,605
13,512
28,059
27,116
Breakdown of total sales:








Pilbara Blend Lump

20,914
20,377
21,943
20,161
21,561
40,063
41,723
Pilbara Blend Fines

38,807
37,200
42,225
36,679
35,871
76,006
72,551
Robe Valley Lump

2,408
2,540
2,835
2,218
2,382
4,807
4,600
Robe Valley Fines

5,523
5,790
5,761
4,476
4,472
10,982
8,948
Yandicoogina Fines (HIY)

14,553
15,008
14,969
13,120
13,371
27,086
26,491
Total sales ('000 tonnes) (b)

82,205
80,916
87,732
76,655
77,658
158,944
154,313
(a) Includes 100% of production from Paraburdoo, Mt Tom Price, Marandoo, Yandicoogina, Brockman, Nammuldi and the Eastern Range mines. Whilst Rio Tinto owns 54% of the Eastern Range mine, under the terms of the joint venture agreement, Hamersley Iron manages the operation and is obliged to purchase all mine production from the joint venture and therefore all of the production is included in Rio Tinto's share of production.
(b) Sales represent iron ore exported from Western Australian ports.
Iron Ore Company of Canada
58.7%







Newfoundland & Labrador and Quebec in Canada







Saleable iron ore production:








Concentrates ('000 tonnes)

2,056
2,272
1,915
1,889
2,212
4,170
4,101
Pellets ('000 tonnes)

2,326
2,710
2,756
2,504
2,356
4,332
4,860
IOC Total production ('000 tonnes)

4,382
4,982
4,671
4,392
4,569
8,502
8,961
Sales:








Concentrates ('000 tonnes)

2,147
2,182
1,955
2,031
1,599
4,207
3,630
Pellets ('000 tonnes)

2,407
2,582
3,004
2,409
2,536
4,396
4,945
IOC Total Sales ('000 tonnes)

4,554
4,764
4,960
4,441
4,135
8,603
8,575
Global Iron Ore Totals








Iron Ore Production ('000 tonnes)

85,265
88,136
90,196
81,558
84,370
169,287
165,927
Iron Ore Sales ('000 tonnes)

86,759
85,679
92,692
81,096
81,792
167,547
162,888
Rio Tinto percentage interest shown above is at 30 June 2017. The data represent full production and sales on a 100% basis unless otherwise stated.


Rio Tinto operational data










RioTinto
interest
Q2
2016
Q3
2016
Q4
2016
Q1
2017
Q2
2017
H1
2016
H1
2017









SALT








Dampier Salt
68.4%







Western Australia








Salt production ('000 tonnes)

1,634
1,813
2,028
1,246
2,159
3,737
3,405









TITANIUM DIOXIDE SLAG








Rio Tinto Iron & Titanium
100.0%







Canada and South Africa








(Rio Tinto share) (a)








Titanium dioxide slag ('000 tonnes)

236
267
300
332
316
481
647









(a) Quantities comprise 100% of Rio Tinto Fer et Titane and Rio Tinto's 74% interest in Richards Bay Minerals' production. Ilmenite mined in Madagascar is being processed in Canada.









URANIUM








Energy Resources of Australia Ltd








Ranger mine (a)
68.4%







Northern Territory, Australia








U3O8 Production ('000 lbs)

1,078
1,468
1,328
1,316
991
2,385
2,306
Rssing Uranium Ltd (a)
68.6%







Namibia








U3O8 Production ('000 lbs)

1,023
916
1,138
981
1,254
2,024
2,235
(a) ERA and Rssing production data are drummed U3O8.









Rio Tinto percentage interest shown above is at 30 June 2017. The data represent full production and sales on a 100% basis unless otherwise stated.

This information is provided by RNS
The company news service from the London Stock Exchange
  END
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