Maryse Lyonnais and Matthew Inge ML: Underground Business Manager – North America MI: Business Line Manager for Drilling Solutions, Automation and Digitalization EPIROC
What is Epiroc's strategy for introducing automation to medium and smaller mining operations?
MI: In the US, we have significantly expanded our surface drill autonomous fleet. Many customers are recognizing the value of surface automation for safety, productivity and efficiency, and investing accordingly. Traditionally, Epiroc focused on larger mines, but we are now extending automation to medium and smaller operations. Our automated platform, previously exclusive to the Pit Viper drill rig series for over 22 years, is now being scaled down the full product portfolio,
ML: One notable introduction in the US underground segment for 2023 is our Boltec with pumpable resin, which reduces bottlenecks in the drill and blast cycle. This system provides a faster, more reliable, and cost-effective bolting alternative for long-term rock reinforcement. In Nevada, we are deploying nine of these equipment solutions this year, significantly improving safety and operational efficiency. Additionally, we've received orders for our large MT65 truck in Alaska.
What progress has Epiroc made in implementing BEV and autonomous equipment in the US?
ML: In 2023, we introduced BEV equipment in the US, including Epiroc Scooptram and Minetruck models available for customer rentals. Additionally, a Boltec BEV is set to arrive in the US.
What is the main purpose of the Elko and Tucson competency centers?
MI: In Elko, we are building a facility specializing in parts rebuilds and integrating technology and digital solutions, primarily focusing on underground operations. Tucson is our surface competency center. These centers are set to offer high levels of innovation, technical expertise, and training. We have allocated substantial resources to both areas and plan to open these facilities in early 2024.
Dennis Sorensen Vice President EMPIRE SOUHTWEST
What was the strategic significance behind Empire Southwest acquiring Cashman Equipment?
We acquired Cashman Equipment Company in Nevada in December 2022, aligning with our strong mining presence in Arizona, reflecting the significance of mining in Nevada. Throughout the year, we integrated Cashman into Empire. Our collaborative effort will continue over the next 12 to 24 months and beyond, with heavy investments in Nevada, acquiring land, constructing new facilities, and upgrading existing ones.
We are optimistic about mining opportunities and overall business prospects in the region. By comparing best practices, we have identified innovative solutions, benefiting our critical clients. Our goal is to provide exceptional support for Nevada clients while maintaining our commitments to our long-standing Arizona clients.
Given the industry's move toward battery solutions, what immediate improvements is Empire focusing on to make mining operations more environmentally friendly?
Caterpillar is actively embracing green technologies, particularly battery electrics, across its product line. In the battery electric space, evolving battery technology presents both challenges and opportunities. Caterpillar is at the forefront of these advancements, and the industry is eagerly anticipating how various manufacturers will approach these technologies. Contrary to the misconception of an immediate shift from traditional engines to battery electric, there is a parallel with the automotive industry's evolution. Like gasoline engines in passenger vehicles, equipment industry technologies are progressing toward cleaner solutions. Empire actively collaborates with mining clients in Arizona, Nevada and California, helping evaluate existing fleets for greenhouse gas reduction and enhancing fleet efficiency. While the industry is moving towards battery solutions, Empire focuses on immediate improvements to make mining operations more environmentally friendly, ensuring profitability and functionality.