Element 25’s Butcherbird Expansion Advances with Key Logwasher Delivery

First Major Processing Equipment Delivered for Butcherbird Expansion

Element 25 Limited (ASX:E25) has marked a significant milestone in its Butcherbird Expansion Project (BBX) with the arrival of its first major processing equipment in Western Australia. A custom-designed logwasher, manufactured by KISA in Germany, landed at Fremantle Port last week and is set for inspection before being transported to the Pilbara site.

This logwasher is a cornerstone of the BBX processing plant, engineered specifically to handle the rigours of manganese ore washing. It boasts a 600-tonne per hour throughput capacity, hydraulic height adjustment, and advanced clay removal technology, reflecting Element 25’s commitment to robust, innovative processing solutions tailored to the project’s needs.

Expansion on Track for 1.1 Million Tonnes Annual Output

The arrival of this equipment underscores steady progress towards BBX’s goal of producing 1.1 million tonnes per annum (Mtpa) of manganese concentrate. Backed by an updated Ore Reserve of 101.4 million tonnes at 10.4% manganese, the project supports an 18-plus year mine life, positioning Element 25 to supply both traditional steel markets and emerging battery-grade refining feedstocks.

Project execution is advancing on multiple fronts, with procurement, engineering, and contractor engagement all moving forward. The company is managing a disciplined framework to track milestones and supplier deliverables, ensuring alignment with the integrated schedule and mitigating risks as construction approaches.

Contracting and Financing Milestones Support Build Phase

Element 25 recently signed integrated Mining Services and Ore Haulage Agreements with Regroup Australia Pty Ltd, further solidifying the supply chain for the expansion. Discussions with preferred ore offtake partners are also at an advanced stage, while the camp services contract nears finalisation. Construction contract tenders have been issued to pre-qualified bidders, with initial evaluations underway, reflecting a well-advanced procurement and contracting phase.

These developments build on prior financing achievements, including a senior debt facility and equity raises, which underpin the company’s confidence in meeting its Q1 2027 mechanical completion and commissioning target. The coordinated approach to early procurement of long-lead items like the logwasher is designed to mitigate supply chain pressures and cost risks.

Strategic Battery-Grade Manganese Plans Complement Expansion

Beyond the Pilbara, Element 25 is also advancing proprietary technology to produce battery-grade high-purity manganese sulphate monohydrate (HPMSM) for electric vehicle (EV) batteries. Supported by major automakers such as General Motors and Stellantis, and a substantial grant from the U.S. Department of Energy, the company is planning a refinery in Louisiana to supply the growing US EV market.

The strategic shift in battery chemistries toward lithium manganese rich formulations is expected to increase manganese demand significantly, potentially amplifying Element 25’s market opportunities. This complementary battery-grade manganese initiative runs alongside the Butcherbird Expansion, reflecting a diversified growth strategy.