Weichai-controlled LOVOL Heavy Industry has delivered its first FR2000F hydraulic mining excavator, a 212 t class machine, to an open-pit mine customer in China. The FR2000F is powered by a Weichai 12M33 low-speed, high-torque, fully electronically controlled engine with quad-turbocharging and an advanced modular design, aimed at high-load, continuous mining duty. The 200 t class size positions it for pairing with ultra-class haul trucks, potentially altering fleet configurations and loading cycle times on large benches.

Boton is deepening conveyor technology collaboration with BHP and Hancock Iron Ore, hosting senior delegations at its Wuxi headquarters to review performance of its high-wear belt materials and advanced splice designs on large iron ore overland systems. Discussions reportedly centred on extending belt life in abrasive Pilbara ores, optimising idler spacing and troughing angles for higher tonne-per-hour capacities, and integrating condition monitoring for early detection of misalignment and shell wear. For mine operators, the work signals continued incremental gains in conveyor availability and reduced maintenance shutdown frequency on long-haul ore routes.

PLS has commissioned Australia’s first mine-site lithium mid-stream processing facility at its Pilgangoora Operation in Western Australia, with Premier Roger Cook officiating the opening, marking a shift from exporting raw spodumene concentrate towards higher-value battery materials. The Mid-Stream Demonstration Plant is integrated directly with the existing open-pit and concentrator complex, enabling on-site conversion steps that are normally performed at distant chemical refineries. For mine planners and process engineers, this signals growing interest in co-locating beneficiation and mid-stream refining to cut logistics, reduce intermediate handling and tighten quality control.