Can you provide recent updates?

We commissioned a large machining center in Chile in January 2024. This floor borer is a four-axis CNC machine and 50-ton rotary table capacity and is a game changer for us in terms of capability. This capability is crucial for our mining clients in Chile, with a focus in the Antofagasta and nearby regions, as it allows for local refurbishment, manufacturing, and repair services, reducing downtime and transportation costs significantly. One key local customer we are working with is Sierra Gorda in Chile, providing support for their HPGR equipment and other refurbishment needs.

What is the importance of Chile for the company?

In South America, we are focused on synergizing operations between Chile and Peru. This involves sharing capabilities and resources across workshops to maximize efficiency. We are the largest non-OEM supplier and refurbishment company for HPGRs in the region, supported by our machining capabilities in Chile. This enables us to provide swift support to customers during breakdowns or short lead times, while offering product improved componentry at discounted prices compared with the OEM pricing level. We apply a similar approach to other operations like shovels and trucks, strategically distributing resources to optimize efficiency and enhance overall capabilities in the region.

How has the implementation of HPGR technology unfolded in the mining industry?

HPGR technology is gaining traction in the mining industry, particularly in copper mining operations. It offers energy efficiency and water-saving benefits. Our involvement primarily revolves around repair and maintenance services for HPGR equipment. We have seen a trend towards its adoption, especially in operations dealing with medium to high hardness ores.

What is product line focus for Hofmann Engineering?

We prioritize growth by focusing on product line expansion. This includes HPGR and crushing refurbishment, maintenance of rope shovels, hydraulic excavators, haul trucks and general industrial gearboxes. As we are specialised in haul truck final drive refurbishment at our other global sites we are also seeking to expand into this area in Chile.

How does Hofmann Engineering hire and upskill local workforces?

In Chile, our workforce is entirely Chilean, reflecting our commitment to community engagement and empowerment. We invest in extensive training, including sessions in Australia and visits to machine manufacturers, to ensure our employees have the skills needed for their roles. We promote cross-skilling and knowledge exchange through visits to other sites like those in Peru. Our goal is to foster a culture of continuous learning and development.

Can you highlight ESG initiatives?

A significant milestone is our ISO certification, where we have extended our standards beyond quality (ISO 9001) to include health and safety (ISO 45001) and environmental management (ISO 14001) across all our sites globally. While finalizing emission reduction targets, we are actively addressing waste management and energy consumption. Through robust systems and procedures, we aim to optimize resource utilization and minimize waste generation.

Additionally, community inclusion is integral to our corporate values, and we are dedicated to fostering positive relationships with local communities. In Antofagasta, for instance, we empower our teams to engage with the community. We support initiatives like a local kindergarten through financial aid and volunteerism.

How is Hofmann Engineering integrating data into operations?

Our transition to a paperless operation is progressing with our investment in HofApps, our application suite. This centralized platform facilitates access to crucial documents, work instructions, and marketing materials, fostering collaboration across our organization. We are also using digital solutions to optimize operations, including time tracking and inventory management. Digital time sheets and tracking systems enable real-time data capture on employee activities and resource utilization. Our online store integrates with our application suite, offering customers improved visibility into products and stock availability. By leveraging data and digital technologies, we aim to enhance operational efficiency, improve decision-making, and deliver greater value to our customers.

How is Hofmann Engineering planning to celebrate its 55th anniversary?

We always find ways to celebrate our company's tenure and success. This year looks promising for our sites in Chile, Peru, and Australia. We aim to participate in our team's celebrations remotely, acknowledging the dedication of our long-serving staff, some of whom have been with us for up to 50 years. Their contributions have been instrumental in shaping our company's journey.