Peruvian Cat dealer trusts AFEX with mining operations fire protection

Ferreyros is a Peruvian Caterpillar dealer providing sales, maintenance, and support for heavy machinery in some of Peru's most advanced mining sites. For many years, the company has partnered with AFEX Fire Suppression Systems to protect both equipment and personnel in the challenging environments of Peru's mines, including Peru's first autonomous mining project at Anglo American's Quellaveco operation.

"AFEX systems give us confidence and security, ensuring that our equipment and personnel are well-protected," says Reinaldo Alpaca Chavez, head of maintenance at Ferreyros, who has over 16 years of mining experience working with both conventional and autonomous mining machinery. "We feel that AFEX is a part of our family, dedicated to supporting the safety and success of every operation. AFEX's technology and commitment to quality make them the top choice for fire suppression in mining." 

The challenges of protecting autonomous mining vehicles from fire

Mining equipment faces extreme conditions, with high temperatures, heavy loads, and the risk of flammable material igniting fires. In traditional mining set-ups, operators are physically present in machinery, heightening the need for robust fire suppression solutions to protect lives. Autonomous mining presents new challenges: without operators on board, fires need immediate, automatic response systems. Ferreyros needed a fire suppression partner capable of delivering advanced technology, reliability, and consistent support.

Fire suppression systems for the mining environment

AFEX Fire Suppression Systems provided a tailored solution for Ferreyros' customers' unique needs across both conventional and autonomous mining projects. AFEX systems, featuring advanced sensors and automatic response technology, are designed to withstand the harsh conditions typical in mining environments. The systems are installed across a range of machinery, from autonomous trucks to manually operated tractors and drills, ensuring comprehensive protection. 

Protective results of AFEX equipment: 

• Enhanced safety for personnel: Reinaldo noted that AFEX systems provide peace of mind for operators by offering quick, controlled fire mitigation. In the event of a fire, the AFEX system activates immediately, protecting operators from potential harm and minimizing equipment downtime.
• Protection of high-value autonomous equipment: At Anglo American's Quellaveco project, AFEX systems ensure the safety of valuable, operator-less trucks. Reinaldo emphasized that this protection is crucial, as autonomous trucks lack an onboard operator to notice or report fires, making AFEX's automatic activation feature valuable.
• Reliable performance and adaptability: AFEX's ongoing commitment to quality has impressed Ferreyros. Reinaldo highlighted how AFEX systems remain responsive, even when dealing with high temperatures and frequent use. Ferreyros has seen several instances where fire incidents were controlled without escalation, preserving the machinery's functionality and protecting the site's productivity.