Peru’s first 100% autonomous hauling project

Ferreyros, Caterpillar’s representative in Peru, is to implement Peru’s first 100% autonomous hauling project and the largest-scale haul project in the Americas. The project will use a fleet of about 30 Caterpillar mining trucks, with cargo capacity of 320 tons each, and will begin operations in Quellaveco in 2021.

A team has been deploying Caterpillar’s MineStar technology platform, which will enable the autonomous operation of Cat 794 AC trucks and their interaction with manned equipment.

“We are honoured to be part of this milestone in Peruvian mining. Caterpillar’s leading experience, proven on three continents, demonstrates that autonomy increases truck productivity and utilization while ensuring safe, controlled and predictable interaction between all teams in the operation,” said Fernando Armas Tamayo, vice president of Gran Minería de Ferreyros.

Globally, more than 280 mining trucks have been operating autonomously thanks to Caterpillar technology, which in 16 months has doubled the volume hauled, from one billion to two billion tons. To date, Caterpillar has hauled more than 2.5 billion tons with its stand-alone solution in seven years.

The ranged Cat mining truck fleet covers a variety of models, including the maximum capacity models: Cat 797F and Cat 798 AC, both 400 tons.

The use of autonomous equipment brings with it many advantages, such as safety. According to Caterpillar, autonomous trucks with Cat MineStar Command have travelled more than 72 million kilometers without damage or lost time.

“It is important to note that this system allows us to face extreme weather conditions and other operational challenges within the hauling process,” Ferreyros explained in a statement.