The integration of this technology into Volcan Compañía Minera’s Romina Project consolidates a strategic partnership focused on developing safer, more efficient, connected, and data-driven mining operations from their earliest stages.
LIMA, PERU. – Epiroc, a global leader in productivity and sustainability solutions for the mining and infrastructure industries, has successfully delivered the first automated Simba E70 S drill rig to Volcan Compañía Minera’s Romina Project. This milestone marks a new step forward in the development of one of the most technologically advanced underground mining operations in Peru and across Latin America.
The arrival of this equipment represents a key advancement in the Romina 4.0 strategy, through which Volcan is developing an operation designed to integrate automation, connectivity, and intelligent data management from its earliest stages. For Epiroc, the project also represents a regional benchmark for the implementation of automation solutions that contribute to raising safety, productivity, and sustainability standards across the industry.
The official equipment delivery included a live technical demonstration of tele-remote operation from the central control room located at Epiroc’s corporate offices in Lima. During the demonstration, attendees observed the Simba E70 S carrying out drilling processes with high precision, enabling operators to work remotely and significantly reducing their exposure to higher-risk areas.
“Automation goes far beyond incorporating technology. It is about transforming the way we operate, developing new capabilities, and creating safer and more productive work environments. The integration of the Simba E70 S reflects the shared vision we have with Volcan to advance modern, connected, and sustainable mining,” said Alfredo Bertrand, General Manager of Epiroc Andina Caribe.
For his part, Miguel Sánchez, Deputy General Manager of Volcan Compañía Minera, emphasized that the project is part of a comprehensive transformation of the operation.
“Romina has been conceived as a mine that will integrate automation, connectivity, and data-driven management from its earliest stages. The integration of the Simba E70 S strengthens the safety of our employees, improves the precision of our processes, and enables us to develop the capabilities required to operate a mine aligned with the principles of Mining 4.0. We value Epiroc as a strategic partner that brings technology, expertise, and support to help make this vision a reality,” he stated.
A Partnership to Accelerate Mining 4.0
As part of this collaboration, both companies implemented a training program for operators and technical personnel using state-of-the-art simulators and training in automated systems. The initiative also promotes the training of women in the operation of this equipment, strengthening their participation in highly specialized technical positions.
Designed for long-hole drilling, the Simba E70 S integrates automation and tele-remote operation capabilities that enable high-precision drilling patterns and remote equipment operation. This technology improves ore recovery, optimizes operating times, and reduces personnel exposure to higher-risk areas.
Volcan estimates that this technology will increase productivity at the Romina Project by 15% to 20%, by maximizing effective drilling time without requiring additional investments in machinery.
With this milestone, Epiroc and Volcan are strengthening a partnership built on innovation, knowledge transfer, and a long-term vision to advance safer, more efficient, and more sustainable mining in Peru.