Sandvik Mining and Rock Solutions has been selected by Chilean copper miner Sociedad Punta del Cobre (Pucobre) to supply a fleet of six Toro LH621i autonomous loaders for mining operations in northern Chile’s Atacama region.
Under the contract, Sandvik will supply Toro LH621i loaders equipped with AutoMine Multi-Lite in two phases.
Sandvik said the AutoMine Multi-Lite system is a highly advanced automation system. It is designed to enable system operators to remotely and simultaneously supervise multiple automated Sandvik underground loaders and trucks.
It is expected to help improve productivity, safety and cost efficiency for underground mining operations.
Sandvik is scheduled to deliver four Toro LH621i loaders to Pucobre this year while the remaining two will be delivered in 2024.
The Toro LH621i loaders feature a 21-tonne (t) payload capacity and the Sandvik Intelligent Control System to allow the use of highly advanced digital solutions such as AutoMine.
Sandvik Mining and Rock Solutions South Cone and Andean sales vice-president Ricardo Pachon said: “We are pleased to support Pucobre in improving the safety, productivity and reliability of its mine operations with the deployment of our autonomous loaders.
“We look forward to working with Pucobre as it continues on its automation journey.”
Pucobre produces 38,000t of fine copper annually from its three mines near the northern city of Copiapó.
Pucobre CEO Sebastian Rios said: “We are consistently exploring and implementing technologies that can enhance safety and productivity in our mines.
“We have an ambitious goal to automate 75% of our stope operations, and this is a major milestone in that journey.”
