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| Fortescue |
Fortescue’s Iron Bridge magnetite operation in Western Australia is progressing steadily and is on track to meet shipment guidance for FY2024–25, with plans to reach nameplate capacity of 22 million tonnes per annum (Mtpa) by FY2028.
Located 145km south of Port Hedland, Iron Bridge is an unincorporated joint venture between Fortescue (69%) and Formosa Steel IB (31%). The site produces magnetite, a high-grade iron ore preferred for green steel production.
Earlier in 2024, Fortescue initiated a technical review of Iron Bridge’s dry ore processing plant, targeting enhancements in the air classification circuit and aerobelt conveyors. The goal was to optimize throughput and stabilize output levels. Fortescue has now completed this review, citing performance gains and improvements in production rates.
The company reaffirmed that Iron Bridge is set to deliver 5–9 million tonnes (Mt) of shipments in FY25, with cash operating expenditure estimated at $US500 million ($A776 million), excluding royalties and shipping.
The ramp-up plan includes:
- 10–12 Mt in FY26
- 16–20 Mt annualized rate in H2 FY27
- 22 Mtpa nameplate capacity in FY28
According to Fortescue, Iron Bridge is a strategic growth asset that enhances the miner’s product mix and boosts capacity, especially in premium magnetite for green steel pathways.
“(Iron Bridge) remains an important operation for Fortescue, increasing production and shipping capacity, while complementing and enhancing its existing product portfolio,” the company said. “Consistent with Fortescue’s track record of capital discipline, the focus on unlocking capability at Iron Bridge is through embedding operational learnings and implementing innovative solutions.”
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