Codelco Using Kinamics Robot to Survey New Mining Fronts at El Teniente

Why It Matters

By removing workers from unstable fronts, Codelco boosts safety while gathering higher‑quality geological data that sharpens production decisions. This approach sets a new benchmark for digital, risk‑free mining operations.

Key Takeaways

• Kinamics Arkytas MU-2.1 robot deployed at El Teniente
• Robot captures 22 photos for 3D photogrammetry models
• Enables surveying humidity, granulometry, dilution without human entry
• Improves safety by eliminating exposure in unreinforced fronts
• Enhances geological insight, supporting production planning decisions

Pulse Analysis

The introduction of Kinamics’ Arkytas MU-2.1 robot reflects a growing industry shift toward zero‑exposure mining, where automation replaces human presence in the most dangerous environments. In Chile’s El Teniente copper complex, the robot navigates freshly blasted fronts that lack ground support, capturing a dense set of images that are stitched into high‑resolution 3‑D models. This photogrammetric workflow not only accelerates topographic surveys but also creates a digital twin of the mine face, enabling engineers to evaluate structural stability before any personnel step inside.

Beyond visual mapping, the robot’s sensor suite gathers critical geotechnical parameters such as humidity, granulometry and dilution rates. These metrics feed directly into Codelco’s Mine Production Planning and Control Unit, allowing real‑time adjustments to extraction strategies and reducing waste. By integrating geological data at the point of excavation, the system shortens the feedback loop between field observations and operational decisions, driving both cost efficiency and ore recovery. The ability to analyze vein structures and rock fabric remotely also supports more accurate resource modeling, a competitive edge in a market where precision mining is increasingly prized.

Codelco’s deployment signals broader implications for the global mining sector. As regulatory pressure mounts to protect worker health, firms are turning to robotics and advanced imaging to meet compliance while maintaining productivity. The success at El Teniente demonstrates that remote surveying can deliver data quality equal to, or better than, traditional methods, encouraging wider adoption of similar platforms. Over the next few years, we can expect a cascade of digital‑first initiatives—ranging from autonomous drilling to AI‑driven orebody modeling—propelling the industry toward safer, smarter, and more sustainable operations.