How EQ Resources Boosted Barruecopardo Tungsten Output to a New Record

Record-Breaking Production at Barruecopardo

EQ Resources Limited (ASX, EQR) has announced a new milestone at its 100%-owned Barruecopardo tungsten mine in Spain, achieving a record monthly production of 12,006 metric tonne units (mtu) of WO3 in October 2025. This surpasses the previous high of 11,534 mtu set in November 2024, marking a significant operational achievement less than two years after the company acquired the asset.

Driving Factors Behind the Surge

The record output was underpinned by a combination of increased throughput and strategic equipment upgrades. October saw a substantial rise in feed volumes, with over 160,000 tonnes processed through the jaw crusher and nearly 59,000 tonnes sorted by the Tomra XRT ore sorters. Notably, the plant maintained a strong feed grade of 0.236% WO3 despite a slightly lower average jaw feed grade of 0.182%, thanks to the enhanced sorting efficiency of the ore sorters.

Central to this performance was the commissioning of a third Tomra XRT ore sorter in the first quarter of fiscal 2026, which operated at full design capacity throughout October. Alongside this, the Falcon concentrator and magnetic separation circuits were successfully commissioned and trialled, contributing positively to the production figures. These new assets, combined with process optimisations such as a 28% increase in crushing capacity and improved blasting techniques, have collectively boosted operational efficiency.

Operational Milestones and Future Enhancements

October also marked the depletion of historic Run-of-Mine (ROM) Pad material, a key operational milestone. The full commissioning of rougher tables and the Falcon concentration circuit further solidified the plant’s processing capabilities. Looking ahead, EQ Resources plans to install a scalping screen and new shaking tables to enhance recovery and classification processes. Additionally, a wet independent sorter feed system is in the engineering phase, with equipment already ordered, signaling ongoing commitment to technological advancement.

Strategic Implications

Managing Director Craig Bradshaw highlighted the collective effort behind the record, praising the Spanish operations team and the broader EQ Resources workforce for overcoming previous performance challenges. The company’s proprietary solutions and collaborative approach have driven production from the low 40s to mid-to-high 60s mtu levels, setting the stage for further growth. This record production not only reinforces EQ Resources’ position as a leading global tungsten producer but also demonstrates the tangible benefits of targeted capital investment and operational excellence.