Glencore i55 Spring 24

Page 1

EXECUTIVE

GLENCORE MINERA LOMAS BAYAS

Glencore’s Minera Lomas Bayas is not just another copper mine

ISSUE 55 SPRING 2024
INSIGHT LEADING THE PROFESSIONAL CHARGE
2 EXECUTIVE INSIGHT MAGAZINE I SPRING 2024

GLENCORE MINERA LOMAS BAYAS

Glencore’s Minera Lomas Bayas is not just another copper mine; it’s a ground-breaking symbol of technological innovation and sustainability within the Chilean mining sector. As it celebrated its 25th anniversary in 2023, Lomas Bayas launched Lomas Lab, heralding a new era of digital transformation and operational efficiency. This pioneering initiative underscores a strategic commitment to the development, testing, and enhancement of digitization and automation in production processes. Its success at Lomas Bayas sets a blueprint for adoption across Glencore’s global operations, marking a significant leap towards sustainability and setting a new standard for the mining industry at large.

3 EXECUTIVE INSIGHT MAGAZINE SPRING 2024 I

At Bailac, we have nearly a century of leadership in the comprehensive management and maintenance of giant tyres in the demanding mining industry.

With over 1,200 mining trucks serviced each month and more than 8,000 tyres retreaded, our specialisation goes beyond maintenance; we are pioneers in the implementation of advanced technologies and in our in-house development softwares for tyre management and inventory. Thanks to real-time monitoring, we optimise operational efficiency and profitability, offering a comprehensive and personalised service, while also safeguarding the integrity of operators by immediately alerting them to any parameters out of range.

We understand the importance of operational efficiency, cost reduction, and sustainability. Therefore, our services are designed to maximise tyre durability under extreme conditions, ensuring that your fleet remains in motion.

Our nearly 100 years of experience in mining tyre retreading underpin our commitment to the circular economy. Currently in Chile, we are authorised by the Ministry of the Environment to issue valorisation certificates through retreading, in line with the objectives of the Chilean Extended Producer Responsibility Law (REP Law), which promotes waste reduction, reuse, and recycling. Our dedication to safety and efficiency, makes us the ideal strategic partner to optimize your operations without compromising quality.

We are more than service providers; we are partners committed to the success of our clients. Our experience and market leadership consolidate us as a voice of authority and trust in the tyre maintenance and management industry.

Contact us: +56 9 6769 1434 • ventas@bailac.com • www.bailac.com

4 EXECUTIVE INSIGHT MAGAZINE I SPRING 2024

Lomas Lab: A Cradle of Innovation

Lomas Lab represents the heart of Lomas Bayas’ innovation drive, created with the vision of transforming the mining operations through digitization and automation. This initiative is a testament to the company’s dedication to enhancing operational efficiencies and sustainability, embodying a forward-thinking approach to mining that leverages tech -

nology to overcome traditional challenges. The lab serves as a nexus for technological experimentation, with its eyes set on redefining mining processes not just within Lomas Bayas but across the entire Glencore network.

Autonomous Haul Trucks: Pioneering Sustainable Mining

A key highlight of Lomas Lab’s achievements is the introduction of autonomous haul trucks, an innovation powered by Komatsu’s FrontRunner system. The pilot project started with four Komatsu 930E-5 haul trucks operating autonomously in a designated circuit, aiming for a full-scale rollout to 27 trucks by 2025. This initiative marks a pivotal transition towards more sustainable mining practices, promising enhanced safety, operational efficiency, and environmental sustainability.

5 SPRING 2024 I EXECUTIVE INSIGHT MAGAZINE
6 EXECUTIVE INSIGHT MAGAZINE I SPRING 2024

The successful deployment of autonomous trucks at Lomas Bayas reflects Glencore’s broader ambitions to lead the industry in sustainable mining practices

The autonomous trucks signify a myriad of benefits, including up to a 4% decrease in fuel consumption, reduced safety incidents due to their sophisticated sensors, and the relocation of personnel to safer, more strategic roles. Furthermore, their capability for extended operational hours without human fatigue factors into an overall improvement in fleet utilization and operational continuity.

Industry Leadership and Cultural Transformation

The successful deployment of autonomous trucks at Lomas Bayas reflects Glencore’s broader ambitions to lead the industry in sustainable mining practices. Pablo Carvallo, General Manager of Lomas Bayas, emphasized the transformative impact of this technology not only on operational efficiency but also on the mine’s working culture. The swift implementation pace, notably quicker than industry standards, is attributed to clear goals, effective team collaboration, and a pioneering spirit that drives technological adoption and innovation.

7 SPRING 2024 I EXECUTIVE INSIGHT MAGAZINE

This initiative has set a precedent, proving that Lomas Bayas, despite its challenges with ore grade, can excel through technological and operational efficiency. It embodies a shift towards a more agile, technology-driven mining operation, distinguishing Lomas Bayas as a leader in mining innovation.

Expanding Horizons: From Autonomous Trucks to Drilling and Beyond

The ambition of Lomas Lab and Lomas Bayas extends beyond autonomous trucks.

Abraham Chahuán, Copper Assets Director – South America, and Enrique Caballero, Regional Technology Transformation Manager at Glencore, shared insights into the broader scope of technological advancements being pursued. These include autonomous drilling, anti-collision systems, and mining electrification, all underpinned by cutting-edge technology tailored to meet the demands of modern mining.

These efforts are part of a robust and ambitious business plan geared towards the future, signaling a decisive

step forward for the Lomas Lab innovation program. The program is currently exploring the development of power supply via trolley assist, which could position Lomas Bayas as the first mining company in the world to operate autonomous trucks under trolley. This initiative is reflective of a comprehensive approach to addressing the challenges and opportunities of contemporary mining, aligning with the industry’s evolution and the expectations of newer generations.

A Vision for the Future: Sustainable Mining and Quality of Life

The initiatives spearheaded by Lomas Bayas and Lomas Lab represent more than just technological advancements; they are a commitment to a sustainable future where mining operations are not only more efficient and safer but also environmentally responsible. This vision aligns with Glencore’s global strategy and sets a benchmark for the mining industry worldwide.

The implementation of autonomous trucks and other state-of-the-art technologies

signals a dedication to excellence, sustainability, and an enhanced quality of life for those involved in and impacted by the mining sector. By fostering a culture of innovation and sustainability, Lomas Bayas is not only addressing the immediate needs of its operations but is also contributing to the broader goals of environmental stewardship and social responsibility.

Conclusion

As Minera Lomas Bayas looks towards the future, its journey with Lomas Lab embodies a bold stride towards redefining the mining industry through technological innovation and sustainable practices. Owned by Glencore, Lomas Bayas has emerged as a flagship of mining excellence, demonstrating that through commitment, innovation, and a forward-looking approach, the mining industry can meet the challenges of the 21st century. The successful implementation of autonomous trucks and the broader spectrum of technological advancements under Lomas Lab are testament to a transformative vision

8 EXECUTIVE INSIGHT MAGAZINE I SPRING 2024
These efforts are part of a robust and ambitious business plan

geared towards the future

9 EXECUTIVE INSIGHT MAGAZINE SPRING 2024 I
Executive Insight Magazine published by J S International Media ©2023 INTERNATIONAL BUSINESS MAGAZINE EXECUTIVE INSIGHT LEADING THE PROFESSIONAL CHARGE Ambersarmy.org.uk www.glencore.com
Issuu converts static files into: digital portfolios, online yearbooks, online catalogs, digital photo albums and more. Sign up and create your flipbook.