Hi David
Although a number of the AI mines are losing money because they are not selling much, they should still be able to make a profit when at a third or half capacity or so.
Having a mine which barely breaks even only once they are at max capacity is not that realistic as mining companies are some of the most profitable companies in the world, een when they only sell a small amount.
The AI tries to offer the minerals at too low of a margin, making only a pittance when they sell their goods. Just a minor increase in price would double profit.
Heres a save game
https://dl.dropbox.com/u/23145017/CHAL_010.zip
Here are some mines to look out for
IQ company's Chemical Minerals mine in Harbin. 6 years old. At roughly 40% capacity, lost 1.8 million last year (Not a good investment for something that cost around 150million)
Happy Resource's Aluminium mine in St Louis. 5 years old. Lost 5.7 million last year, and -25 million in its lifetime. Makes 6c/lb (Also bad)
United Array's silica mine. 18 years old. Lost 56 million in its lifetime and -3.4 million last year. Making 2c for each lb silica they sell (Very poor for an 18 yr mine)