Australian Zircon's mineral sands mine near Mindarie is now cash-flow positive, the Adelaide company said yesterday.

The company said the rate of exports from the mine had increased from one to two trainloads per week.

"Exports will further increase to three trainloads weekly by year's end,'' the company said. "At this rate of production Mindarie operations are expected to deliver annualised earnings before interest, tax, depreciation and amortisation of approximately $21 million.''

The company plans to expand production in 2009.

The Mindarie mineral sands mine is producing zircon, ilmenite and rutile for export.

The mine underwent a two-day shutdown in July to improve the operational performance of the mining, concentration and separation processes.

Production at the mine started in September last year.

Australian Zircon shares closed 2.5c higher at 12c yesterday. – The Advertiser