Firebird’s Growth Hinges on Converting Taza’s Kiln Interest into Firm Order
Firebird Metals has received a significant Expression of Interest from Taza Metal Technologies to purchase up to five of its energy-efficient kilns, potentially generating over US$10 million in revenue. This marks a key step in Firebird’s international commercial expansion and highlights its leadership in sustainable manganese processing technology.
- Expression of Interest from Taza Metal Technologies for up to five kilns
- Potential revenue exceeding US$10 million with ~15% gross margin
- Kilns to be manufactured by Zhongji Sunward with Firebird retaining global marketing rights
- Technology delivers substantial energy savings compared to conventional kilns
- Formal quotation expected within six weeks; purchase agreement targeted by January 2026
A Breakthrough in Manganese Processing
Firebird Metals Limited (ASX – FRB) has taken a significant stride towards commercialising its proprietary kiln technology with an Expression of Interest (EOI) from Taza Metal Technologies (TMT). Following successful test work on low-grade manganese ore at Firebird’s R&D centre in Jinshi, China, TMT has indicated interest in purchasing up to five of Firebird’s energy-efficient kilns. This development not only validates Firebird’s engineering prowess but also positions the company at the forefront of sustainable manganese processing.
Strategic Partnership and Market Expansion
TMT, a notable non-China supplier of battery-grade high-purity manganese sulfate monohydrate (HPMSM) to Europe, is planning a major expansion to produce 30,000 tonnes per annum of Electrolytic Manganese Metal (EMM) and 45,000 tonnes of HPMSM. To meet these ambitious targets, TMT requires approximately five kilns, which Firebird’s technology is set to supply. The kilns will be manufactured by Firebird’s partner, Zhongji Sunward Technology Co., Ltd., while Firebird retains exclusive global marketing rights, ensuring control over its commercial strategy.
Financial and Operational Highlights
The potential deal could generate revenue exceeding US$10 million for Firebird, with an expected gross margin of around 15%. Importantly, the contract structure involves upfront and milestone payments, supporting an asset-light, cash-generative business model that requires no capital outlay from Firebird. This approach aligns with Firebird’s strategy to drive growth while maintaining financial discipline.
Technological Edge and Energy Efficiency
Firebird’s kiln technology demonstrated remarkable energy efficiency during testing, consuming an average of 230 kWh per tonne of ore feed; significantly lower than the 400 kWh per tonne typical of conventional rotary kilns. At commercial scale, Firebird anticipates further energy reductions, potentially halving current market consumption benchmarks. These savings not only reduce operational costs but also underscore Firebird’s commitment to sustainable industrial processes.
Looking Ahead
Firebird aims to convert this EOI into a confirmed order by January 2026, with a formal quotation to be submitted within six weeks. This milestone would mark Firebird’s first international commercial kiln deployment, enhancing its reputation as a leader in next-generation manganese processing technology. Beyond manganese, Firebird’s calcining technology holds promise for broader applications, including lithium battery materials, hinting at future diversification opportunities.
Bottom Line?
Firebird’s kiln technology is poised to transform manganese processing, but the path to a confirmed order will be closely watched by investors.
Questions in the middle?
- Will Firebird secure the full order for all five kilns from Taza Metal Technologies?
- How will Firebird’s energy savings translate into competitive advantages in broader industrial markets?
- What are the risks or challenges in scaling production and deployment of these kilns internationally?
