The agreement means FLSmidth will design and supply the kiln and provide technical assistance for this essential component in rare earths processing.

The Acid-Bake Rotary Kiln incorporates concentrate mixing and feeding equipment, directs waste gas to a separate scrubbing facility, and provides a natural gas fired heating system essential for the processing of rare earths. Following receipt of tender submissions, Hastings awarded the Acid-Bake Rotary Kiln contract to FLSmidth.

The deal is significant strategically for FLSmidth as it recognises the depth of pyrometallurgical processing technology the company can provide for rare earths production of neodymium and praseodymium (NdPr). NdPr is a key ingredient in the production of Permanent Magnets which are widely used in electric vehicle (EV) motors, direct drive wind turbines, medical equipment-MRI, and high-end electronics.

"The order of an acid-bake rotary kiln to the Hastings Technology Metals Yangibana Rare Earths Project in Australia is significant for FLSmidth on a global perspective. It recognises the ability of FLSmidth to provide technology for the processing of rare earths. The general growth in demand for battery minerals has allowed us to use pyrometallurgical processing experience to facilitate the needs of our fast-growing customers - but now it has also allowed us to expand our business into neodymium and praseodymium production," comments Laurie Barlow, Head of Mining, Australia at FLSmidth.