thyssenkrupp Industrial Solutions has been awarded one of the largest fabrication and construction projects the company has ever handled in Western Australia. Within the contract, thyssenkrupp will design, supply, construct, and commission large-scale stockyard machines for the BHP South Flank iron ore project in the central Pilbara region of Western Australia. The contract is valued at approximately Euro 150 million (A$250 million).

The BHP iron ore project is targeting first ore in 2021. Generating roughly 80 million tonnes of output per year, it will fully replace production from the existing Yandi mine which is reaching the end of its economic life. The project is expected to create many opportunities for Western Australian suppliers.

Torsten Gerlach, CEO - Mining Technologies, thyssenkrupp Industrial Solutions, said, ?South Flank will be one of the largest iron ore operations worldwide. We look forward to contribute to this project by combining longstanding global expertise in the mining business with local experience. Our strong partnership with BHP extends globally, but significantly within the Pilbara region where we have provided material handling solutions for decades. With our field service teams we are supporting our customer on a daily basis.?

thyssenkrupp will supply two stackers that deposit iron ore into stockyards for loading, and a reclaimer for loading the ore into trains for transport to Port Hedland. The machines will have a capacity of 20,000 tonnes per hour, making them the largest rail mounted stackers and reclaimer in the world. The design of the machines incorporates the latest Australian design standard requirements, and technology improvements centred on safe construction, operation and maintenance activities.

Andrew Howie, CEO, thyssenkrupp Industrial Solutions (Australia), said, ?This project highlights our capability to deliver major engineering and construction projects in Western Australia. We are focused on providing opportunities for local businesses and communities and it is exciting to see our relationships with local clients and partners continue to grow.