In another win for Caterpillar’s diesel-electric drive LHD (Load-Haul-Dump machine), the R2900XE, the first unit in Brazil has been delivered to Companhia de Ferro Ligas da Bahia (FERBASA), a leading chromite miner and ferroalloys producer in Bahia state. FERBASA operates the Campo Formoso and Andorinha mines, with the new machine destined for the underground Andorinha operation. Beyond technical improvements, this delivery marks a significant milestone for FERBASA because with these advancements, FERBASA expects to boost its underground mining efficiency and reduce operational costs, supporting its growth strategy in Brazil’s mining sector.
This unit is also the first to be supplied with a Tier 3 engine (a classification indicating compliance with specific emissions standards) configuration for the Brazil market. The machine was delivered by Brazil Cat dealer Sotreq, which highlights that the R2900XE represents technological evolution, energy efficiency, robustness, and reliability, as well as meeting the challenges of modern mining. In addition to its advanced drive system, the R2900XE offers features that align with FERBASA’s commitment to sustainable mining practices and operational excellence.
Thanks to a number of new and improved features, the R2900XE delivers a +20% increase in productivity compared to the R2900G, according to Caterpillar. It employs a high efficiency electric drive system and is powered by a quiet, reliable and durable Cat C15 engine. With these advancements, FERBASA anticipates greater output and operational savings, further strengthening its competitive position in the Brazilian mining industry.
In an online post, Teodoro Neto, Sotreq Product Support Consultant, stated: “For Sotreq, this milestone reinforces our commitment to connect global innovation to practical application in Brazil, with support throughout the entire life cycle of the equipment. We continue to push underground mining to a new level.” This partnership ensures FERBASA will receive ongoing support, maximising the value and performance of the R2900XE.
The R2900XE’s 18.5 t payload results in faster load times, making it a 3- or 4-pass match with the Cat AD63 truck for greater efficiency and higher productivity. Compared to the R2900G, it features 52% quicker acceleration and improved machine response, providing operators greater control over the machine. Plus, it achieves 7% higher speed on grade. These operational benefits translate directly to improved productivity and reduced cycle times for FERBASA’s underground mining activities.
The R1700-style lift arm can reach higher, making it faster and easier to load larger trucks, while improved hydraulic performance makes loading faster and easier. These improvements and more result in reduced cycle times, more material moved, and lower cost per tonne. Autodig, an automated digging assistance feature, helps new operators be productive faster and reduces fatigue for all operators. Such enhancements are expected to contribute to FERBASA’s sustainability goals by optimising resource use and minimising waste.
Productivity is further enhanced through the R2900XE’s hydraulic system. Variable piston pumps deliver higher flow rates for faster hydraulic cylinder cycle times and powerful lift forces, while large-bore lift and tilt cylinders provide exceptional strength, performance, and durability. These technical features are closely aligned with FERBASA’s objectives to maintain reliable, high-capacity operations in demanding underground environments.
In addition to the two chromite mines, FERBASA operates two quartz mines in Tucano and Ipirá as well as a plant dedicated to the production of quicklime. These products, along with chromite, are directed almost entirely to its Metallurgical Unit in Pojuca/BA, where ferroalloys are produced in 14 electric furnaces. This expanded capacity, supported by the new R2900XE, positions FERBASA to further its leadership in Brazil’s mining and metallurgical industry.