Simpec will install a flocculant treatment plant at the Cataby mineral sands mine under a A$1.7 million (US$1.2 million) contract. Simpec will immediately start on the flocculant plant fabrication and construction package project, which will take around three months to complete.

The flocculant plant package is a fabrication and construction project consisting of four tanks including structural, mechanical and piping works. The project works will form part of a complex mineral and chemical processing facility. Simpect stated that to be involved in the construction of a key element of this facility is a significant milestone for the company.

It is Simpec's second award at the Cataby project, having successfully completed a key mechanical, electrical and communications contract in the construction of two separate accommodation facilities for use by Iluka and Tronox respectively. The flocculant plant package contract is a direct engagement with Iluka.

Simpec picked up the contract after successfully completing water treatment tank works at the Talison lithium mine in Greenbushes, Western Australia.

The work brings Simpec's order book total to A$9.5 million for the year, while WestStar's order book stands at A$13 million.

Mark Dimasi, managing director at Simpec, commented: "This is a tribute to our tank delivery team stemming from our current project down in Greenbushes, Western Australia. What a commendable achievement to secure a project directly with Iluka and further utilising our tank team to deliver industry excellence. This is the beginning of an exciting new journey with Iluka, well done team."