Aussies expand iron ore

BHP Billiton has awarded a Mine and Port Development Joint Venture contract to Fluor for an iron ore expansion project in western Australia.

The $1.8bn, equal joint venture contract will be held between Fluor Australia and Sinclair Knight Merz. They will provide engineering, procurement, construction management and commissioning services for the project.

The expansion will increase the mine’s capacity from 129m tonnes per annum to 155m tonnes per annum.

Fluor will also modify rail and port facilities as part of the joint venture, which is expected to reach completion in early 2010.