🇵🇪 The Quellaveco mining unit, operated by Anglo American in Moquegua, Peru, has increased its production by approximately 17% thanks to the implementation of autonomous haulage and a strong commitment to digital twin technology to optimize its operations.
Quellaveco introduced Peru’s first 100% autonomous haulage system, operational since 2021, utilizing nearly 30 Caterpillar Cat 794 AC mining trucks, each with a 320-ton capacity. These autonomous trucks operate on predefined routes within the Autonomous Operations Zone (AOZ), connecting loading points to dumping sites, stockpiles, or crushers. The fleet is managed by a dynamic assignment system, and the vehicles are equipped with advanced obstacle and adverse condition detection capabilities, sharing real-time information across the fleet. This autonomy enhances safety by removing human exposure in hazardous zones and improves operational efficiency. Felipe Carrillo, Quellaveco’s Autonomy Superintendent, highlighted that this technology has been key in improving safety and productivity indicators, achieving up to a 17% productivity increase in haulage.
In addition, Quellaveco employs digital twins—detailed virtual replicas of processing plants and other systems—to simulate and optimize operations without disrupting actual processes. These digital twins integrate technical and sensor data to perform predictive tests that enhance decision-making, reduce errors, and optimize performance. Key systems like grinding, flotation, tailings management, water control, and electrical systems benefit from this technology, which is currently in development with robust implementation expected by 2026. Anglo American is also developing proprietary technologies in Peru focused on sustainability and real-time environmental monitoring integrated with intelligent risk control, all within the digital twin strategy to maximize production value while minimizing human risk.
Production figures reflect these advancements: Quellaveco produced 79,900 tons of copper in Q1 2025, up from 72,000 tons the previous year, and reached 156,600 tons in the first half of 2025. The plant initially processes between 127,500 to 150,000 tons per day, with a projected 17.6% capacity increase slated for late 2026 through 2027. Expansion projects include improved mine access, better water management, increased mined material movement from 140 to 150 million tons annually, enhanced environmental monitoring, and exploration to confirm additional reserves. The open pit has an estimated life of 17 years, while the concentrator plant is projected to operate for 34 years, including processing stockpiled material and concluding with safe tailings disposal at the Cortadera dam.
The integration of autonomous haulage and digital twins marks a significant technological leap for mining in Peru and globally, positioning Quellaveco as an innovative operation that prioritizes safety, efficiency, and sustainability. Quellaveco’s production accounts for over 10% of Peru’s national copper output, reinforcing Peru’s status as the world’s second-largest copper producer after Chile. Anglo American ensures Quellaveco operates with renewable energy, supporting environmental and social commitments through water access projects and local entrepreneurship aligned with national sustainable development policies.
These technological and operational improvements present substantial business implications, including enhanced mining sector productivity, increased investment attractiveness, and operational developments that could serve as benchmarks for other mining projects. The focus on sustainability and safety also aligns with global industry trends, potentially opening new market opportunities and reinforcing Anglo American’s leadership in responsible mining.
Source(s): https://discoveryalert.com.au/news/quellaveco-copper-mine-expansion-2025/, https://www.mining.com/anglo-american-plans-26m-upgrade-for-quellaveco-mine/, https://www.rumbominero.com/peru/noticias/mineria/quellaveco-productividad-acarreo-autonomo-uso-de-gemelos-digitales/
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