South America's First Hydrogen Locomotive Launch in Chile
Key Ideas
  • FCAB launched South America's first hydrogen-powered locomotive, which will operate between Antofagasta city and the port.
  • The 1,000kW locomotive, developed by CRRC Qishuyan, is lighter and emits only water vapor and hot air, aligning with Antofagasta Minerals' decarbonization plan.
  • The locomotive will transport various minerals and is being used to explore future applications in the mining sector, with personnel being trained to operate and maintain it.
  • Sierra Gorda in Chile will introduce LNG-powered trucks to reduce greenhouse gas emissions, showing a commitment to sustainability and reducing carbon footprint.
FCAB, the rail transport division of Chilean miner Antofagasta Minerals, has launched South America's first hydrogen-powered locomotive in Antofagasta, Chile. The locomotive, developed by China's CRRC Qishuyan, is equipped with a large-capacity battery and a 35MPa hydrogen storage system. It is 30t lighter than other hydrogen locomotives and emits only water vapor and hot air, making it a key part of Antofagasta Minerals' decarbonization plan. The locomotive will transport sulfuric acid, copper concentrate, anodes, cathodes, and other minerals between the city and the port, serving as a test for future applications in the mining sector. Personnel are undergoing training to operate and maintain the hydrogen-powered unit. On the other hand, Sierra Gorda, a Chilean mining company formed by Polish and Australian partners, will introduce its first fleet of LNG-powered trucks to transport copper and molybdenum concentrate. The company aims to reduce scope 3 greenhouse gas emissions and lower its carbon footprint. This initiative showcases a growing trend in the region towards adopting sustainable practices in the mining industry. Both the hydrogen locomotive and LNG-powered trucks exemplify a shift towards cleaner and more environmentally friendly transportation methods in the mining sector.
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