Ferrexpo plc, a leading producer of high-grade iron ore pellets, is pleased to announce the successful commissioning of a new press filtration complex at its Poltava Mining site, which is part of its corporate structure. The total cost of the project was over USD 80 million, and its implementation took place despite the challenges posed by martial law, demonstrating the company's unwavering commitment to industrial development in Ukraine.

The new complex, which replaces traditional vacuum filtration, is designed to dewater fine-grained pulp. It is 42 meters high and has a total surface area of 28,000 square meters. Equipment from global leaders Metso, Atlas Copco and German company Eirich allows for more efficient control of product moisture, improving product quality.

In January 2024, Poltava Mining launched its first process line with new press filters, which reduced bentonite consumption from 14 kg to 9 kg per ton of concentrate and eliminated the use of an expensive dehydrator. This also contributed to better control over the moisture content of the iron ore concentrate, reducing it to 9.7% compared to 10.1% on lines with vacuum filters, which has a positive impact on the characteristics of the final product.

The new technology helped reduce natural gas consumption by 3% and, accordingly, reduce Scope 1 carbon emissions, as well as increase the strength of finished iron ore pellets and shop productivity by 3%. Viktor Lotous, Chairman of the Board of Poltava Mining, said:

"Implementing projects such as the press filtration complex during the war underscores our commitment to innovation, efficiency and sustainable development while minimizing our environmental impact. We continue to invest in Ukraine, supporting the development of local industry."

The first and second process lines in the pelletizing shop are now connected to the press filtration complex, and the next press filters, which will serve the third and fourth lines, are scheduled to be completed by the end of the year. The project is part of Ferrexpo's wider Strategic Development Program, which aims to double its production of high quality iron ore pellets to 24 million tonnes per annum.

Ferrexpo, a Swiss-based iron ore company with assets in Ukraine, is listed on the London Stock Exchange under the FTSE 250 index (ticker: FXPO). The company produces premium iron ore pellets that help reduce carbon emissions and increase the productivity of steelmaking plants. Ferrexpo has been supplying raw materials to the steel industry for over 50 years, with a customer base around the world.