Downtime Reduced at Fortescue's Queens Overland Conveyor
Project Summary
CPS was engaged to supply a complete package of rollers, frames, and pulleys for a critical conveyor at Fortescue’s Solomon Hub operations. The conveyor system spans 8 kms, designed with an 1800mm belt width and a 5-roll configuration, engineered to support the efficient transportation of bulk ore material.
Challenges
With Fortescue’s stringent requirements and tight project timelines, CPS was selected for its local manufacturing capabilities, technical performance, and commitment to delivery.
Tight Delivery Schedule: Fortescue required complete delivery within 12 weeks to meet internal project milestones.
High Tolerance Requirements: Robotic welding was a must to meet the exacting tolerance requirements for this project.
High Reliability Expectations: Fortescue’s operational teams were focused on minimising downtime and long-term maintenance costs.
Cost Sensitivity: The solution needed to remain cost-effective without compromising on quality or lead time.
Perception Barriers: CPS needed to address legacy perceptions that all conveyor components are the same in quality and performance.
CPS Solution
CPS responded with a fully Australian-fabricated solution from its Perth facility, enabling:
- Accelerated production timelines
- Strict quality control and compliance to Australian Standards
- High tolerance frame manufacture was achieved with robotic welding processes
- Immediate supply chain access
- Close collaboration with Fortescue stakeholders throughout design and delivery
The Results
By leveraging in-house engineering and local fabrication, CPS ensured not only fast delivery, but also product consistency, superior performance, and long-term reliability.
The Queens Project is a benchmark for local supply, performance, and delivery excellence. CPS delivered a fully compliant, on-time, and high-performing package that directly supported Fortescue’s operational success.
The fact that the downtime for the conveyor in question at the Queens site was only 0.45 hours in the 2025 financial year is great evidence of our component’s continued excellent performance since install in 2020.
This project not only demonstrates the technical strength and agility of CPS as a supplier but also underscores our commitment to strategic collaboration, continuous improvement, and long-term value creation for partners like Fortescue.
