What is the history of TAKRAF Group in Chile?

We are headquartered in Germany with offices around the world and have been operating in Chile for approximately 25 years. We have been involved in major mining projects in the region, managing projects both in Chile and Peru. Our clients range from end customers to project offices and engineering companies.

What are your key products?

We operate under two brands: TAKRAF, which is our traditional brand focused on mining, material handling and comminution machinery; and DELKOR, which specializes in solid-liquid separation. We also carry out engineering projects in transportation. One of our flagship projects to date is Chuquicamata Subterranea, where we developed the world’s most powerful conveyor system, with 58 MW of total installed drive power. We offer a wide range of solutions to our customers, from large integrated systems to individual machines, various maintenance concepts and spare parts. In the case of DELKOR, we have a long tradition in separation systems, and are constantly seeking new alternatives and aiming to be at the forefront of technology.

How do you utilize advanced technologies?

In recent years, we have made all of our equipment available with remote control options or remote monitoring capabilities. We have also successfully developed our BQR flotation cells and a sizer, which has demonstrated tremendous benefits as an alternative to a gyratory crusher for hard rock applications. Currently, we are implementing notable improvements in terms of digitization and control of our thickeners.

What are the sustainability and efficiency benefits of DELKOR?

We are one of only two companies globally that offer a complete and integrated dry stacking solution. Our products provide sustainability and safety benefits in various areas. For instance, in transportation systems we focus on intelligent belt conveyor power regeneration and the use of more efficient motors, significantly reducing energy consumption. We have achieved energy consumption reductions of up to 35%. Additionally, application of our advanced dewatering solutions can enable up to a 94% water recovery rate. Lastly, our new generation DELKOR BQR flotation cells, equipped with our latest MAXGen mechanism, achieve superior metallurgical performance.

How do your services improve mine productivity and efficiency?

When depositing material, for example, when a spreader is operating, we have incorporated monitoring systems to enable independent and automated deposition by the operator. By improving the depositing process, we minimize the need for additional equipment, reducing risk and the number of operators.

What is the biggest challenge facing the Chilean mining industry currently?

As an industry, we have a social responsibility to communicate the importance of our contribution to the country's economy and development. Without minerals, society cannot exist, and there can be no electromobility. If we fail to make society understand this, we are not fulfilling our role. Furthermore, we have a responsibility to engage in responsible mining, with responsible consumption of supplies and a carbon footprint that is environmentally friendly. Chile will have to play a major role in the Electric Vehicle (EV) metals transformation. In this regard, both suppliers and end customers can make a significant impact.

What is the importance of Chile and Latin America for TAKRAF Group?

Chile has historically been one of the most important regions for TAKRAF Group. We have undertaken the most significant projects and carried out the largest works in the region for many years. Naturally, we are monitoring the developments in Latin America with some degree of concern, as we observe a complex market in Chile, Peru, and neighboring countries. Meanwhile, other markets not involved in the Russia-Ukraine conflict, such as Australia, and countries in Africa and Asia, are strengthening and attracting more interest. However, the potential we have as a region for the future is tremendous. With a bit more stability, I am confident that we will regain our position of leadership.

What is the company's strategy for the upcoming year and what are its objectives?

Considering the current consolidation in the supplier market, we believe there is a tremendous opportunity. We have a new CEO who brings a wealth of industry experience, and we are developing a strategy to capitalize on the opportunities left by competitors and develop a solid aftermarket market, enabling us to support our customers throughout the complete lifecycle of our products. Our focus is on organic growth.