Sandvik continues Codelco digitalization partnership at El Teniente mine

Sandvik TH663i with AutoMine Trucking. Image courtesy of Sandvik.

Sandvik will deliver AutoMine fleet solutions for underground trucks to Codelco’s El Teniente mine in Chile, continuing Codelco’s vision of creating the most advanced underground mines in the world.

This AutoMine fleet system is the first step in implementing a fully automated mining solution using Sandvik trucks at El Teniente, the biggest underground copper mine in the world. Codelco’s goal is to dramatically increase the productivity, safety and efficiency of its operations with AutoMine. Together with the existing OptiMine system, the mine will become a world-class benchmark.

This agreement follows the April 2019 announcement that Sandvik will deliver its award-winning AutoMine and OptiMine solutions to Codelco’s Chuquicamata mine as it converts the site from open cast to an underground mine. This development is part of Codelco’s 10 year strategic project to prolong its existing mines.

“As a state-owned mining company, it is our responsibility to implement technology and solutions that ensure the safety of our people and the sustainability of our mines,” said Rafael Guzman, Chief Engineer for Automation and Technology at El Teniente. “Being a good corporate citizen is not negotiable. It is critical to our success.”

Sandvik and Codelco started their automation journeys together at El Teniente with the first-ever AutoMine Loading system installation in 2004.

“We are proud that Codelco continues to choose Sandvik as a strategic partner for its most innovative projects,” said Patricio Apablaza, Vice President for Andean and South Cone, Sandvik Mining and Rock Technology. “Our technology will drive even safer, smarter and more productive mining for Codelco.”