Viridis Mining and Minerals Limited has awarded its first major process equipment order for the Colossus Rare Earth Project in Brazil, commissioning specialist manufacturer Dewater Filter Press Srl to supply the residue pressure filtration package.

The purchase order covers the design, manufacture, fabrication, testing and supply of the solid-liquid separation system, which represents a critical long-lead item on the project's path toward a targeted 2028 production schedule. The equipment has been sized to match the throughput requirements of the 5-million-tonne-per-annum processing facility, producing a stable, low-moisture filter cake that allows processed clay to be returned for progressive mine backfilling and rehabilitation.

Viridis selected Dewater following a 12-month competitive tender and technical evaluation involving global pressure filtration suppliers. Dedicated test work using Colossus residue confirmed equipment sizing and operating parameters, providing contractual performance guarantees for both throughput and final residue moisture specifications.

The order is structured with staged payment milestones and a contractual hold point prior to a final investment decision, allowing critical-path procurement to advance while limiting pre-FID financial exposure. Manufacturing is expected to take approximately 12 months.

“The placement of our first major process equipment order for Colossus is another important step as we move from development into execution. Following completion of the DFS and with our equity funding requirement now addressed, our focus is firmly on maintaining momentum through the commencement of EPCM and progressive commitment of critical-path packages required to protect our targeted 2028 production schedule and position Viridis as the next major Western producer of both light and high-value heavy rare earth.”

“The selection of Dewater follows an extensive 12-month competitive tender and technical evaluation involving some of the world's leading pressure filtration suppliers. Dedicated test work using Colossus residue, detailed technical assessment and contractual performance guarantees give us a high degree of confidence in both the equipment and its performance.”

— Rafael Moreno, Managing Director

The procurement milestone follows other recent infrastructure and permitting advancements for Colossus. In June, Viridis executed a binding agreement with municipal electricity distributor DME for a dedicated 3.2-kilometre, 138-kilovolt high-voltage transmission connection from the Saturnino Substation to the project. On the regulatory front, environmental permitting for the operation advanced after the company received its Preliminary Licence in December 2025 and subsequently submitted its Installation Licence application in May 2026.

These ongoing developments position Colossus among a select group of emerging producers aiming to supply critical rare earths outside China.

Read the full announcement: Viridis Places First Major Equipment Order for Colossus