Autodesk announced the launch of new AI-powered capabilities within its Fusion and Alias software, designed to streamline manufacturing workflows and boost efficiency. 

The new tools, unveiled during Autodesk University’s annual Design & Make conference, aims to simplify complex tasks and empower manufacturers to deliver innovative products faster.

“For decades, manufacturers have responded to their customers’ demands for increasingly complex products, which in turn typically increases the complexity of designing and manufacturing those products,” said Jeff Kinder, executive vice president for Product Development and Manufacturing Solutions at Autodesk.

The new capabilities include AutoConstrain in Fusion, which automates the process of detecting and maintaining design relationships, saving designers significant time.

Another feature, Drawing Automation, generates 2D manufacturing drawings from 3D models at the click of a button, accelerating production timelines.

“Automations that handle error-prone, burdensome tasks, freeing people to focus on high-value, more rewarding work,” added Kinder.

Autodesk also introduced Form Explorer for Alias, a generative design tool enabling automotive designers to explore creative forms while adhering to historical styling cues.

In addition, the Autodesk Assistant in Fusion offers real-time, expert-level guidance, providing answers to technical questions and links to relevant sources within the software.

Kinder noted, “Imagine an AI assistant that flags supply chain risks. Simulations that push designers toward more sustainable and manufacturable designs.”

“We’re building these capabilities, as well as empowering our customers to build them.”

New manufacturing Data Model API launched

Autodesk has also launched a Manufacturing Data Model API to enhance data exchange and interoperability.

This new API allows third-party apps to integrate with Fusion projects, ensuring smooth collaboration between tools and workflows.

OpenBOM has developed a web-based solution that automates bill of materials (BOM) workflows, giving non-designers easy access to BOMs directly from design data and eliminating the need for manual, error-prone processes.

Meanwhile, Cideon has established a two-way integration between Autodesk Fusion and SAP, allowing CAD engineers and manufacturers to access SAP’s enterprise resource planning (ERP) data within Fusion.

Expanding the ecosystem for seamless collaboration

Recognising the need for connected tools, Autodesk said it continues to partner with over 150 hardware and software providers. Recent integrations include:

• Paperless Parts: Allows manufacturing estimators to generate instant quotes and address manufacturability issues within Fusion.
• Avnet Plugin: Enables electronics designers to source components and access reference designs directly in Fusion, reducing product development time.
• Makersite for Inventor: Offers sustainability insights by calculating environmental impacts, tracking progress toward eco-friendly goals, and suggesting material alternatives.
• NAVASTO for Alias Automotive: Brings wind tunnel simulations into the early design phase, helping automotive designers optimize aerodynamics and reduce redesign efforts.

“As an industry, we have an unprecedented opportunity to seize the value that AI, data, and digitisation offer. To do so, we must start by accessing and interconnecting the data to uncover the insights it offers,” Kinder stated.

“That’s why we’re so invested in continuing to build the Autodesk Fusion industry cloud. It’s the design and make platform for manufacturing. It’s a central environment for data, closely coupled with Autodesk AI to augment creativity, automate your workflow’s tedious tasks, and analyse project data to yield predictive insights that benefit business,” concluded Kinder.

The post Manufacturing gets a productivity boost with Autodesk’s latest AI capabilities appeared first on Australian Manufacturing.

Melbourne-based biopharmaceutical giant Telix Pharmaceuticals announced its agreement to acquire RLS (USA) Inc, the only Joint Commission-accredited radiopharmacy network in the US, as part of a strategic move to expand its North American manufacturing and distribution capabilities. 

This acquisition will allow Telix to enhance its production of PET, SPECT, and therapeutic radiopharmaceuticals while laying the groundwork for a next-generation radiometal production network.

The acquisition, which aligns with Telix’s strategy of vertical integration, will strengthen the company’s supply chain and distribution infrastructure, ensuring better control over product quality and delivery. 

By leveraging RLS’ 31 licensed radiopharmacies located across major U.S. metropolitan areas, Telix plans to build a radiometal production and distribution network for key isotopes used in diagnostics and therapy. 

The deal also includes over 100,000 square feet of licensed expansion space to meet increasing production demand.

In addition, Telix will deploy its ARTMS QUANTM Irradiation System (QIS) cyclotron technology across RLS’ network to facilitate the efficient production of radiometals, bolstering the company’s capacity to meet future demand. 

The acquisition will broaden patient access to these critical radiopharmaceuticals, particularly in underserved regions, and enhance Telix’s ability to provide a reliable and scalable supply chain for both its own products and those of its partners.

Dr Christian Behrenbruch, Managing Director and CEO of Telix, emphasised the significance of the acquisition: “Our vision is to build a radiometal production and distribution network fit for the future. By combining the ARTMS platform and the RLS network, we can scale up the production of key isotopes and build a stable and consistent supply of PET and SPECT diagnostic tracers, along with therapeutic radiopharmaceuticals across the U.S. This investment ensures we can continue to deliver top-quality products to our partners and patients.”

RLS will operate as an independent unit within Telix Manufacturing Solutions (TMS), which also includes brands like ARTMS, IsoTherapeutics, and Optimal Tracers. 

The acquisition will enhance Telix’s U.S. distribution network and complement its existing state-of-the-art GMP production facility in Belgium.

Stephen Belcher, CEO of RLS, expressed optimism about the partnership:
“We look forward to becoming part of the Telix Group ecosystem. This is a positive step for RLS, enabling us to expand our capabilities and continue delivering quality, reliability, and flexibility to our customers.”

Financial terms and closing conditions

The deal, valued at USD 230 million in upfront cash, includes additional deferred cash considerations of up to USD 20 million, contingent on meeting financial and operational milestones in the year following the transaction. 

Telix will fund the acquisition using existing cash reserves, with closing expected in early 2025, pending regulatory and shareholder approvals.

The post Telix to acquire RLS in major expansion of North American manufacturing and distribution platform appeared first on Australian Manufacturing.

Austal Limited has announced that its US subsidiary, Austal USA, has been awarded a USD 152 million (approximately AUD 220 million) contract by the US Navy. 

The contract aims to bolster the Navy’s infrastructure, supporting the annual delivery of one Columbia-class and two Virginia-class submarines, the company said in an ASX announcement.

The funds will enable Austal USA to participate as a limited partner in the United Submarine Alliance (USA) Qualified Opportunity Fund, a private initiative designed to expand the US submarine industrial base. 

This effort includes upgrading facilities and ancillary infrastructure in and around Mobile, Alabama, where Austal USA operates. 

Notably, the ownership of these facilities will remain with the USA Qualified Opportunity Fund.

The new contract is a significant addition to Austal USA’s submarine projects, following a previous USD 450 million contract with General Dynamics Electric Boat signed earlier this month.

“This contract from the U.S. Navy to expand production capacity further strengthens the role Austal has cemented in the U.S. submarine industrial base,” said Paddy Gregg, CEO of Austal Limited.

According to Austal, as Australia’s leading defence exporter and ASX-listed shipbuilder, the company’s global footprint continues to grow. 

The company has contracted over 350 vessels for commercial and defence operators across 59 countries over the past 35 years.

The post Austal USA secures $220M contract to support US Navy submarine manufacturing appeared first on Australian Manufacturing.

Aurora Biosynthetics, an advanced RNA therapeutics manufacturing company, has officially launched, marking a significant step forward in RNA production within the Asia-Pacific region. 

Positioned to meet the growing demand for RNA-based therapies, the company will provide a comprehensive Good Manufacturing Practice (GMP) solution for plasmid DNA (pDNA), messenger RNA (mRNA), and lipid nanoparticles (LNP) production.

The launch of Aurora Biosynthetics is the result of a public-private partnership involving the New South Wales (NSW) Government, RNA Australia, and Myeloid Therapeutics, a leader in RNA immunotherapies. 

This collaboration combines state-of-the-art RNA manufacturing technologies with government backing, enabling Aurora to swiftly enter the global RNA manufacturing market.

Supported by AUD 200 million from the NSW Government, the project aims to bolster Australia’s RNA ecosystem. 

Aurora’s new facility, located at Macquarie University in Sydney, is expected to create an environment conducive to collaboration with academic researchers while ensuring access to a skilled workforce, all vital to maintaining Australia’s competitive edge in RNA manufacturing.

In a media release, Aurora Biosynthetics stated it is positioned to offer end-to-end solutions for RNA therapeutics manufacturing, which includes:

• GMP Plasmid Production: Crucial for mRNA production and cell and gene therapies.
• GMP RNA Production: Specialising in large-scale RNA manufacturing.
• GMP Lipid Nanoparticle Production: Utilising advanced technologies for LNP encapsulation of mRNA and other active ingredients.
• Fill-Finish Services: Providing final formulation and preparation for clinical and commercial use.

With the RNA therapeutics market projected to grow at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of over 20 per cent, Aurora Biosynthetics said it aims to become the go-to GMP manufacturer for the Asia-Pacific region. 

According to Aurora, its leadership team, composed of experts in RNA technology and manufacturing, is focused on scaling operations to meet global demand while fostering financial stability for the business.

The company is set to boost Australia’s biotech landscape, with clients able to take advantage of the country’s R&D tax credit, offering a 43 per cent cash rebate on R&D expenditures.

The post New player in RNA manufacturing: Aurora Biosynthetics launches in Australia appeared first on Australian Manufacturing.

BAE Systems Australia has been awarded a $270 million contract to enhance the production of critical components for the Evolved SeaSparrow Missile (ESSM) Block 2, a medium-range, surface-to-air missile designed to protect warships from advanced anti-ship cruise missiles.

This contract aims to increase the production capacity for the missile, which is currently in service with 12 countries and deployed on Royal Australian Navy Anzac class frigates and Hobart class air warfare destroyers, as revealed in a news release.  

BAE Systems Australia will also expand its workforce, creating 24 full-time positions, including four apprenticeships, to meet the growing demand.

Andrew Gresham, managing director of Defence Delivery at BAE Systems Australia, highlighted the strategic importance of the contract. 

“We’re proud to continue delivering as a trusted partner to Australia’s sovereign guided weapon manufacturing capability.”

He added, “Increasing the rate of production of ESSM Block 2 components will ensure Australia and its allies continue to contribute to peace and stability while remaining protected.”

The new contract builds on BAE’s long-standing involvement in the North American Treaty Organisation’s (NATO) ESSM program, in which the company has delivered over 3,000 sets of ESSM Block 1 components since 1995. Production of Block 2 components began in 2021.

In line with Australia’s sovereign defence objectives, BAE Systems is working with a network of local suppliers to support domestic guided weapon manufacturing, positioning itself as a key player in the Commonwealth’s Guided Weapons and Explosive Ordnance Enterprise.

The post BAE Systems secures $270M deal to expand missile component production appeared first on Australian Manufacturing.

Defence industry and technology company Black Sky Industries has officially launched in Australia with the establishment of its multi-million dollar headquarters in Logan, South East Queensland, along with additional launch, test, and manufacturing facilities spread across Western Queensland. 

These developments are set to accelerate the production of sovereign-scale rocket motors and defence systems, the company said in a media release. 

Black Sky Industries, formerly known as Black Sky Aerospace, holds the distinction of being Australia’s only sovereign developer and supplier of solid rocket propellant and solid rocket motors to the defence sector. 

The company was founded by aerospace, defence, and manufacturing veterans Blake Nikolic, Karl Hemphill, and Dr Vu Tran, who also co-founded the $3 billion technology startup Go1.

To date, Black Sky has made several key hires, including former L3Harris Technologies director David Johnson as General Manager, Enterprise Development, and defence innovation veteran Stephen Delo. 

These strategic appointments reflect the company’s commitment to reimagining the design, development, and manufacturing of rockets at scale.

“At Black Sky, complex rocket manufacturing is done with a high degree of innovation, security, and safety but at much lower cost than others. This has the potential to save Australia and our allies billions of dollars and ensure taxpayer funds can be utilised in other areas,” said Blake Nikolic, co-founder of Black Sky Industries. 

He added, “We innovate, move quickly, and deliver results. We achieve what others won’t even attempt and we imagine the unimaginable and bring it to life.”

The company’s capabilities include the local production of ammonium perchlorate (AP), a crucial component for conventional solid rocket motors used in aerospace and defence industries. 

In addition to producing solid rocket propellant and motors, Black Sky offers its proprietary Wagtail Rocket Assisted Take-Off (RATO) technology, designed for Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs) and drones.

Central to Black Sky’s operations is Cortex1, a proprietary software platform that underpins everything from research and development to manufacturing. 

The platform powers products and platforms including launch control, tracking, and mapping, and leverages data-driven propellant formulation and characterisation technology using artificial intelligence.

Dr Vu Tran emphasised the importance of local manufacturing to secure and strengthen Australia’s defence supply chains, reducing dependence on external jurisdictions. 

“Australia spends $50-$55 billion on defence each year yet we’re lucky to have just one company in the top 100 list of defence suppliers. Black Sky aims to change that,” Dr Tran stated. 

“Having sovereign defence capability will help Australia achieve greater efficiency and resilience in the delivery of defence technologies, and in our ability to protect the nation.”

He added that local manufacturing offers numerous benefits, including lower geopolitical risks, increased operational transparency, and alignment with regulatory compliance. 

“It also encourages the growth of local businesses while building a skilled workforce to develop a consistent pipeline of local talent with proximity and access to local R&D institutions,” Dr Tran noted.

These developments are set to accelerate the production of sovereign-scale rocket motors and defence systems, the company said in a media release. 

Black Sky Industries, formerly known as Black Sky Aerospace, holds the distinction of being Australia’s only sovereign developer and supplier of solid rocket propellant and solid rocket motors to the defence sector. 

The company was founded by aerospace, defence, and manufacturing veterans Blake Nikolic, Karl Hemphill, and Dr Vu Tran, who also co-founded the $3 billion technology startup Go1.

To date, Black Sky has made several key hires, including former L3Harris Technologies director David Johnson as General Manager, Enterprise Development, and defence innovation veteran Stephen Delo. 

These strategic appointments reflect the company’s commitment to reimagining the design, development, and manufacturing of rockets at scale.

“At Black Sky, complex rocket manufacturing is done with a high degree of innovation, security, and safety but at much lower cost than others. This has the potential to save Australia and our allies billions of dollars and ensure taxpayer funds can be utilised in other areas,” said Blake Nikolic, co-founder of Black Sky Industries. 

He added, “We innovate, move quickly, and deliver results. We achieve what others won’t even attempt and we imagine the unimaginable and bring it to life.”

The company’s capabilities include the local production of ammonium perchlorate (AP), a crucial component for conventional solid rocket motors used in aerospace and defence industries. 

In addition to producing solid rocket propellant and motors, Black Sky offers its proprietary Wagtail Rocket Assisted Take-Off (RATO) technology, designed for Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs) and drones.

Central to Black Sky’s operations is Cortex1, a proprietary software platform that underpins everything from research and development to manufacturing. 

The platform powers products and platforms including launch control, tracking, and mapping, and leverages data-driven propellant formulation and characterisation technology using artificial intelligence.

Dr Vu Tran emphasised the importance of local manufacturing to secure and strengthen Australia’s defence supply chains, reducing dependence on external jurisdictions. 

“Australia spends $50-$55 billion on defence each year yet we’re lucky to have just one company in the top 100 list of defence suppliers. Black Sky aims to change that,” Dr Tran stated. 

“Having sovereign defence capability will help Australia achieve greater efficiency and resilience in the delivery of defence technologies, and in our ability to protect the nation.”

He added that local manufacturing offers numerous benefits, including lower geopolitical risks, increased operational transparency, and alignment with regulatory compliance. 

“It also encourages the growth of local businesses while building a skilled workforce to develop a consistent pipeline of local talent with proximity and access to local R&D institutions,” Dr Tran noted.

The post Australia’s Black Sky Industries unveils new HQ, facilities to boost defence production appeared first on Australian Manufacturing.

The global manufacturing sector showed further signs of weakness in August, with declines in production, new orders, and employment. 

According to the latest JP Morgan Global Manufacturing PMI, the composite index fell to an eight-month low of 49.5, marking its second consecutive month below the neutral 50.0 threshold. 

Bennett Parrish, global economist at JP Morgan, highlighted the downturn, stating, “The JP Morgan global manufacturing output PMI slipped 0.3 points to 49.9 in August, its first reading below the 50-mark this year.” 

“In addition to weaker output growth, survey details suggested a continued slowdown in new order intakes and the pace of hiring.”

The survey, produced by JP Morgan and S&P Global Market Intelligence in association with ISM and IFPSM, indicated that out of 31 countries surveyed, 18 reported PMI readings consistent with a deterioration in manufacturing conditions. 

The downturns were particularly notable in the United States, the euro area, and Japan. Although China’s PMI moved slightly above the no-change mark to 50.4, it remained at a subdued level. 

In contrast, India showed solid growth and was the best performer among the surveyed nations, along with the UK and South Korea.

“Although the Euro area remained the weakest performing region, output growth slowed again in the US and a few other EM Asian economies according to the August surveys,” Parrish added.

Global manufacturing production decreased slightly in August, marking the first contraction in 2024. 

This decline was driven by reduced output in both intermediate and investment goods industries. 

While consumer goods producers continued to see growth, it was the weakest in the current 13-month sequence of expansion.

New orders received by global manufacturers also contracted for the second consecutive month in August. 

All three sub-industries covered by the survey—consumer, intermediate, and investment goods—reported decreases in new order intakes. 

The global trade environment remained particularly challenging, with the volume of new export business falling for the third straight month and at the fastest pace since December of the previous year. 

Major exporters such as China, the US, Japan, Germany, and the UK registered notable reductions in new export orders.

Parrish noted the impact on pricing, saying, “The pricing PMIs firmed in August, likely reflecting the ongoing inflationary impact of higher shipping costs.”

Manufacturing employment also decreased in August, marking the first decline in six months. However, the rate of job losses was marginal, as reductions in the consumer and intermediate goods sectors were partially offset by increased staffing in the investment goods category. 

Employment reductions were observed in the US and the euro area, while China saw no change. On the other hand, job creation was reported in Japan, the UK, and Brazil.

The outlook for the global manufacturing sector remained cautious in August. Business optimism was below its long-run survey average and among the weakest levels in the past 18 months. 

The ratio of new orders to finished goods inventory remained unchanged from July’s nine-month low, reflecting manufacturers’ conservative approach.

The post Global manufacturing PMI falls as production and orders dip – JP Morgan appeared first on Australian Manufacturing.

A recent parliamentary inquiry into Western Australia’s domestic gas policy has revealed that the state’s gas industry is effectively fulfilling domestic supply requirements at stable prices. 

The Economics and Industry Standing Committee’s Final Report on the WA Domestic Gas Policy highlighted the importance of securing additional gas sources in the coming years. 

The report recommended that the state government should allow onshore gas projects to export LNG only if the domestic market remains adequately supplied, ensuring that the state’s energy needs are met for the foreseeable future.

Australian Energy Producers (AEP) responded positively to the report, expressing their willingness to collaborate with the WA Government to achieve the best outcomes for the state. 

While the report proposed some government interventions that the industry considers potentially counterproductive, AEP said it welcomed the committee’s preference for market-led solutions.

The inquiry noted that Western Australia has so far avoided the significant supply shortfalls and price volatility experienced on Australia’s east coast. 

The report highlighted that, despite tightening demand, recent commitments by gas companies have ensured a steady supply to the domestic market.

AEP WA Director Caroline Cherry emphasised that gas companies have consistently met their domestic gas commitment agreements, providing reliable and affordable energy to support WA’s economy.

“Gas companies are committed to producing reliable and affordable energy supply, and the report has found they have delivered this for WA’s economy,” Cherry stated. 

“As the committee acknowledges, industry has further demonstrated this commitment in recent months, with several companies ensuring extra supply to the domestic market.”

Cherry also pointed out that allowing onshore projects to access export markets could enhance domestic gas security by making more projects commercially viable. 

However, she cautioned against recommendations that could introduce instability, such as renegotiating existing domestic gas agreements and implementing a ‘use it or lose it’ policy for retention leases.

“Any changes to the DGP objectives, as proposed, should be tested with stakeholders,” she said, advocating for a balanced approach to ensure continued investment in new gas supply.

The post Inquiry report: WA gas sector delivers stable supply but calls for increased production appeared first on Australian Manufacturing.

The Capital Group, on behalf of the Manufacturing Industry Skills Alliance, has unveiled the 2024 Manufacturing Workforce Plan, a strategic blueprint to unlock the potential of Australia’s $124 billion manufacturing industry. 

The plan, developed by the Manufacturing Industry Skills Alliance and the Jobs and Skills Council, presents a roadmap designed to address the critical workforce needs of the sector.

With employment in the industry projected to increase by 16.8 per cent, equating to an additional 120,000 workers by 2033, the plan seeks to turn workforce challenges into opportunities, ensuring that Australia’s manufacturing sector remains a key driver of economic growth.

Australia’s manufacturing industry, the nation’s fifth largest, encompasses a wide array of sectors, including food production, machinery, metals, transport, and robotic engineering. 

Despite misconceptions about its decline, the industry continues to thrive, contributing $124 billion to the economy in the 2021-2022 financial year. 

Sharon Robertson, CEO of the Manufacturing Alliance, emphasised the industry’s resilience and growth potential, noting that the plan is crucial for preparing a workforce capable of driving innovation and sustaining the sector’s expansion. 

“As Australia’s fifth largest industry and growing, manufacturing plays a key role in the economy. Given the projected industry growth, we want to ensure that the manufacturing industry can access workers with the skills needed to shape an innovative future made right here in Australia,” Robertson stated.

The 2024 Manufacturing Workforce Plan identifies four primary challenges currently facing the industry: the need to attract and increase the pipeline of apprentices, address the ageing workforce, improve diversity, and develop skills for emerging industries. 

The plan highlights the importance of correcting misconceptions about careers in manufacturing, which have deterred potential apprentices from entering the field. 

It also underscores the urgency of addressing the ‘skills retirement cliff’ posed by an ageing workforce, which threatens to drain the industry of specialised expertise unless proactive measures are taken.

Diversity is another focal point of the plan, with a call for greater inclusion of women, First Nations Australians, culturally and linguistically diverse (CALD) communities, and individuals with disabilities in the manufacturing workforce. 

By broadening the pool of talent and fostering an inclusive work environment, the industry aims to alleviate labour shortages and drive innovation. 

Furthermore, the plan emphasises the necessity of continuous skills development to meet the demands of emerging sectors such as clean energy, defence, medical, and space technologies.

The plan also outlines strategic solutions to these challenges, including campaigns to engage schools, community groups, and employers in promoting manufacturing careers.

Flexible work arrangements and knowledge transfer programs are proposed to retain the expertise of older workers, while initiatives to support succession planning and mentoring will help pass critical skills to the next generation. 

Additionally, the plan advocates for attracting underrepresented groups through supportive networks, leadership training, and optimising work environments to make manufacturing more inclusive.

A best practice toolkit will showcase successful strategies and case studies, promoting the replication of innovative approaches across the industry.

Graeme Russell, Board Chair of the Manufacturing Alliance, highlighted the importance of learning from existing success stories within the industry, where some employers have already implemented effective strategies to attract and support diverse talent. 

“There are employers who have already figured out how to attract and support young women and First Nations people through trades apprenticeships, there are workplaces that already have transition programs in place to transfer the skills of older workers to the next generation, and there are others that have developed support mechanisms that allow them access to people with disabilities who are seeking exciting employment opportunities in manufacturing. One of our important roles as a Jobs and Skills Council will be to seek out these examples and facilitate replicating them across our industry,” Russell said.

The comprehensive plan is the result of extensive consultation with stakeholders, including employers, industry experts, training organisations, and unions, ensuring that the proposed solutions are well-informed and supported. 

By incorporating diverse perspectives, the 2024 Manufacturing Workforce Plan aims to build a resilient and skilled workforce that can drive the industry forward, making Australia a leader in innovative manufacturing.

The full plan, including detailed strategies and actionable steps, is available for download here. 

The post 2024 Manufacturing Workforce Plan to boost Australia’s $124B industry appeared first on Australian Manufacturing.

Rio Tinto has released its second quarter production results, highlighting progress in various operations and projects.

Chief Executive Jakob Stausholm remarked, “Our operational performance continues to progress. While there are still significant improvements ahead, we are beginning to see a step-change in production, including from our Queensland bauxite business following the roll-out of the Safe Production System.”

Stausholm emphasised the ASX-listed company’s disciplined growth in essential materials for the energy transition.

“We are growing with discipline in the materials the world needs for the energy transition. Construction of the Simandou high-grade iron ore project in Guinea is advancing at pace, the ramp up of the Oyu Tolgoi underground is on track, and we are set to achieve first production from the Rincon starter plant by the end of the year.”

Rio Tinto reported a decrease in its all-injury frequency rate to 0.32 from 0.37 in the first quarter and 0.38 in the same period last year.

In the Pilbara, iron ore production reached 79.5 million tonnes, slightly lower than last year due to a train collision in mid-May.

Despite this, shipments were two per cent higher, aided by port stock drawdowns. Bauxite production saw a 9 per cent increase to 14.7 million tonnes, attributed to the Safe Production System’s successful implementation.

Alumina production dropped by 10 per cent due to issues with the Queensland Gas Pipeline, but aluminium production remained stable with a 1 per cent increase.

On 31 May 31, Rio Tinto secured a 20-year electricity arrangement for NZAS, ensuring the future production of high-purity, low-carbon metal.

The company also acquired Sumitomo Chemical Company Limited’s 20.64 per cent interest in NZAS, making it 100% owned by Rio Tinto.

Mined copper production increased by 18 per cent, driven by significant improvements at Kennecott and Oyu Tolgoi.

Production of titanium dioxide slag fell by 22 per cent due to weak market conditions, while IOC production rose by 6 per cent year-on-year but was down 16 per cent quarter-on-quarter due to maintenance activities.

Rio Tinto continued its investments in decarbonisation technologies, including ELYSIS carbon-free aluminium smelting cells in Quebec and the BioIron low-carbon ironmaking process in Western Australia.

Additionally, all conditions were satisfied for the investment in Simandou high-grade iron ore deposit in Guinea, marking a significant milestone for the project.

The post Rio Tinto reports progress in second quarter production results appeared first on Australian Manufacturing.