Rio Tinto and China Baowu have completed industrial-scale hydrogen-based direct reduction trials using Pilbara Blend iron ore in a shaft furnace, showing that the mid-grade (~62% Fe) Western Australian ore can achieve metallisation levels suitable for low-carbon DRI. Tests at Baowu’s Zhanjiang base used hydrogen-rich gas in place of coke-based reductants, validating pellet quality, sticking behaviour and gas utilisation under commercial conditions. The work signals that existing Pilbara ore supply chains could be adapted for hydrogen DRI routes, reducing dependence on high-grade (>67% Fe) ores.

VEGA’s radar level and point level instruments are being used by Dutch floor screed manufacturer Quartzline in Dordrecht to continuously monitor raw material stocks in silos and storage vessels. Non-contact radar sensors and point level switches provide real-time data on resin, sand and filler levels, allowing tighter batching control and reducing manual silo checks and over-ordering. For materials and plant engineers, the case shows how robust level measurement in abrasive, dusty bulk environments can stabilise mix quality and cut inventory and production downtime.

Reid has launched the ReidBar™ TX Coupler, a mechanical reinforcing bar splice system designed to cut installation time and improve constructability on bridge projects while meeting some of Australia’s strictest state road authority specifications. The coupler is engineered for high-strength threaded bar connections, enabling faster bar fixing, reduced congestion at pier and abutment zones, and simplified detailing for heavily reinforced bridge decks. For civil contractors and designers, the system offers a standardised, certifiable alternative to lap splices and site welding, with clear compliance pathways for major infrastructure works.