Americas Gold and Silver doubles hoisting capacity with $1.1M Galena shaft upgrade
USAS•Americas Gold and Silver completed Phase 2 of its No. 3 Shaft modernization at the Galena Complex, boosting hoisting capacity from 42 to 105 short tons per hour with a $1.1 million investment. A minor electrical fire halted 4900 Level operations but will not affect 2026 full-year guidance.
1. Phase 2 Shaft Upgrade Completed
Phase 2 upgrades to the No. 3 Shaft at the Galena Complex increased hoisting capacity from 42 short tons per hour (stph) to a design target of 105 stph, with sustained rates of 85 stph. The $1.1 million project encompassed a new braking system, mechanical, electrical and control-system enhancements, extending the planned shutdown from 14 to 28 days to address additional maintenance opportunities.
2. Electrical Fire Containment and Operations
A short circuit in a ventilation fan on the 4900 Level triggered a minor electrical fire earlier this month, which was swiftly contained by trained crews. There were no injuries or significant damage, but operations on the 4900 Level remain paused for safety audits and repairs while the rest of the Galena Complex has resumed full operations.
3. Wildfire Impact and Operational Resumption
A regional wildfire near the Crescent Mine last week forced a two-day access suspension under safety mandates but caused no site damage. Development crews have since resumed normal activities, ensuring production progress remains on track.
4. Outlook and Capacity Optimization
With both incidents managed and infrastructure investments in place, the company expects no change to its 2026 full-year guidance and anticipates second-half weighted output. Final optimizations—including guide alignment, lighter skips, optimized schedules and upgraded in-shaft communications—will be performed during weekly downtime to achieve continuous 105 stph capacity without further disruptions.
