Zinc-copper-lead-silver miner Nexa has incorporated a fleet of Cat R2900 XE low-profile loaders into its mining operations in Peru, supplied by Ferreyros, a leader in heavy machinery. These are the first low-profile loaders with electric transmission and diesel engine in Peruvian underground mining. Ferreyros says they stand out for reducing fuel consumption per tonne produced and the resulting carbon emissions, and for increasing productivity, agility and loading capacity, reflecting the innovation of the Caterpillar portfolio.
The incorporation of this new technology strengthens Nexa’s commitment to sustainability and the decarbonisation of its operations. As part of its ESG strategy, the company aims to reduce 52,000 t of CO2 equivalent in direct emissions (Scope 1) by 2030, achieve carbon neutrality in 2040 and completely eliminate its net emissions by 2050. Nexa’s focus on technological solutions, in addition to reinforcing its ESG strategy to reduce emissions, also seeks to generate cost optimisation. “With the addition of this diesel-electric equipment, we are moving towards more modern and sustainable operations. These loaders do not require additional infrastructure and offer immediate benefits, such as lower fuel consumption, lower maintenance costs and better protection of fuel quality. air in mine,” said Héctor Portugal, Nexa Supply Manager.
With a load capacity of 18.5 t, these Caterpillar LHDs incorporate advanced technologies that contribute to optimal condition monitoring, improve operational efficiency and increase mine safety. Additionally, they can be operated remotely and are designed to evolve towards full autonomy in the future.
Ferreyros, a strategic partner of Nexa for more than 35 years, supports the operation of the mine’s extensive fleet of low-profile loaders and other Caterpillar equipment. The company says it offers personalised after-sales support through maintenance contracts that include specialised technical assistance in the mine, supply of spare parts and resident personnel in operations, ensuring high levels of equipment availability.
In this sense, Álvaro Vizcardo, Central Division Manager of Ferreyros, commented: “We are sure of the positive impact that this pioneering Caterpillar fleet will generate in the operations of our client Nexa and in underground mining in Peru, thanks to its outstanding attributes. From Ferreyros and Caterpillar, we reaffirm our commitment to providing you with maximum support for the success of your activities.”
This initiative joins other actions by Nexa to advance its environmental commitment and its decarbonisation strategy in Peru. Among them, the implementation of heavy trucks powered by CNG (vehicular natural gas) for the transportation of minerals and the replacement of diesel forklifts with electric models, which have made it possible to reduce CO2 emissions and increase safety in their operations.
Nexa Peru currently holds three polymetallic mining units in operation: Cerro Lindo (Ica), El Porvenir (Pasco) and Atacocha (Pasco). It also features a portfolio of polymetallic and copper greenfield projects with advanced exploration.
The company belongs to Nexa Resources, the metals and mining division of Votorantim.
