The Kentucky producer shipped 8700 tons during the month, and sold 4150 clean tons.

 

Quest president Eugene Chiaramonte Jr said that despite many obstacles, its Gwenco subsidiary had still achieved well.

 

“Nine days straight of an annual federal electrical inspection, coupled with extra equipment repairs, caused almost two weeks of downtime for the operation,” he said.

 

“Even with only half a month of production, we were able to match October's results. This means that the company is still on course to produce 20,000 tons gross per month."

 

He noted that if Gwenco could continue performing without stoppages or significant delays, it should end the year on a high note.

 

"The company has already more than doubled its revenues from 2008, so we look forward to seeing the final results."

 

Last month, the producer said October production was aided by a thicker-than-expected coal seam, which also helped it achieve a 25% sales jump.

 

Gwenco reported the shipment of 11,000t gross in October, selling 4350t clean for total revenue of $US292,000 based on a $67/t sales price.

 

In late September, the company announced the coal seams, which span six individual directional headings, rose in seam height from 40-44 inches to a 42-55in range.

 

Quest reported September performance of 10,000t, and 3500t clean shipped at a price of $67/t for total revenue of $235,000.

 

Earlier that month, a bankruptcy court judge finalized Gwenco’s Plan of Reorganization, allowing its emergence from Chapter 11.

 

Quest began renovation work on the Cedar Grove and Pond Creek operations in 2008, and has retained Whitestar as the contract miner for its operations.