
The BHP iron ore project is targeting first ore extraction 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 at thyssenkrupp Industrial Solutions: “South Flank will be one of the largest iron ore operations worldwide. We look forward to contributing to this project by combining longstanding global expertise in the mining business with local experience. Our strong partnership with BHP extends globally, but the Pilbara region is a core area 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, and a reclaimer for loading the ore onto 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 centered on safe construction, operation and maintenance activities. ■