Firebird Metals Ltd (ASX:FRB, OTC:FRBMF) has announced the delivery of a new pilot scale calcining kiln to the company’s Battery Grade, High Purity, Manganese Sulphate Plant, by Sunward. Here with Just the Facts is Proactive’s Tylah Tully
The kiln was designed by Firebird and promises to reduce energy usage by up to 80%, while improving the cost-efficiency of the plant, which is located in Hunan Province in China.
It reports the installation is complete and testing has begun, with results expected within six weeks.
Initial tests will process ten tonnes of manganese ore but the kiln could also have applications in iron ore beneficiation and lithium sulphate production.
The kiln processes 80 kilograms per hour and offers substantial energy savings compared to conventional units.
The kiln is part of a strategic agreement between Zhongji Sunward Technology Co and Firebird, where all detailed technical engineering and construction of the kiln are to be completed by Sunward, who will pay Firebird a 5% royalty on future sales of the kiln.
Firebird retains the right to collaborate with other manufacturers.
The company says its industry-leading sulphate technical team in China is always looking to improve its proposed production processes, with a focus on reducing its already low-cost profile to produce high-purity manganese sulphate.
Firebird already sits in the lowest quartile of operational costs, which again highlights the significant cost, development and operational advantages of establishing operations in China.