The metallurgical operation in Boone County commenced production last September to make up for lost production from the Harris No. 1 mine, which closed in June, according to the Associated Press.

Before an industry crowd in New York this week, Patriot chief executive Richard Whiting reportedly said Black Oak would help the producer profit from booming Asian demand in the steelmaking sector.

The company produced 6.1 million tons met coal in the first three quarters of 2010 and is targeting total met production of 8Mt from its mines next year.

A company spokesperson did not respond by press time with further comment on Whiting’s remarks.

Patriot has operations in Kentucky as well as West Virginia.