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“Innovation and technology will play a crucial role as we work towards BHP’s goal of net-zero operational emissions by 2050, and we are determined to keep building partnerships like this to achieve this objective”
Ragnar Udd,
Chief commercial officer,
BHP.
BHP is once again demonstrating its commitment to sustainability by embracing the latest in energy innovation. The mining giant has announced an exciting partnership with Caterpillar to trial the cutting-edge Cat Dynamic Energy Transfer (DET) system, designed to revolutionize energy use for mining trucks. This technology will be tested across BHP’s iron ore and copper sites, marking a significant step forward in the company’s journey toward net-zero operational emissions. The collaboration underscores the vital role that innovation will play in shaping the future of mining and highlights BHP’s determination to lead the industry in adopting clean energy solutions.
Caterpillar’s DET system, first introduced at MINExpo earlier this month, is a game-changer for both diesel-electric and battery-electric mining trucks. The technology offers a groundbreaking feature: it transfers energy to large mining trucks, regardless of whether they run on diesel or electric power, as they operate around mine sites.
Moreover, the system can charge an electric haul truck’s batteries while the vehicle is on the move, an innovation that opens doors to more seamless and efficient operations. With its flexible infrastructure, the DET system can also be relocated easily to various parts of a mining site, offering greater adaptability.
The technology trials will see Caterpillar’s DET system validated at two of BHP’s major operations ths is its iron ore site at Jimblebar in Western Australia and its copper site at Escondida in Chile. At Jimblebar, the DET system will be tested with the CAT 793 fleet, while at Escondida, the CAT 798 fleet will be the focus. This partnership serves as a critical stepping stone in BHP’s larger vision of deploying zero-emission mining trucks.
Ragnar Udd, BHP’s chief commercial officer, shared his enthusiasm for the trial. “We are pleased to be able to trial the DET technology that Caterpillar has developed, and it is a welcome addition in our plans to enable zero-emissions mining truck deployment at BHP.
“Innovation and technology will play a crucial role as we work towards BHP’s goal of net-zero operational emissions by 2050, and we are determined to keep building partnerships like this to achieve this objective, ” he said.
Furthermore, this trial is not only significant for BHP but also for the broader mining industry as it paves the way for future collaborations between mining companies and technology providers. Caterpillar’s Group President, Denise Johnson, emphasized the importance of this relationship.
“We look forward to continuing that collaboration as we work together to trial the Cat DET system on both diesel-electric and battery-electric trucks at BHP’s sites.
“This is an important next step to validate the crucial energy management solutions needed to support not only BHP and Caterpillar but also the broader mining industry,” she noted.
The trials signal BHP’s ongoing dedication to leading the charge in sustainable mining practices. The introduction of such advanced energy technologies underscores the company’s intent to remain at the forefront of global mining innovation, setting an example for the entire industry.
In summation, as BHP continues its journey towardsreducing its operational emissions, the partnership with Caterpillar could serve as a key milestone in transforming energy management across mine sites worldwide, offering a glimpse of what a more sustainable mining future might look like.