Posted by Paul Moore, October 22, 2024

Global mining company Thiess says it has successfully exported its first fleet of refurbished trucks – five Cat 789 trucks – from Batam Island in Indonesia to Perth, Australia, with more on the way to meet ongoing fleet demand.

It states: “The team at our Thiess remanufacturing center in Indonesia is resetting each truck’s usage meter to zero, extending the life of each truck by 40,000 to 60,000 hours, as well as a complete rebuild including a complete overhaul of all major components, as well as chassis and electrical systems. . Since opening in January 2024, the team has built 17 trucks, with another six nearing completion. A total of 31 trucks are expected to be built and exported by the end of the year.”

Thiess Group Executive Chairman and CEO Michael Wright said: “The refurbishment of our trucks and components underscores Thiess’ commitment to sustainable solutions and innovation in the mining industry. Remanufactured equipment and components will result in improved machine performance, including product upgrades and technological improvements, delivering reliability and increased mining efficiency at lower cost to our customers.”

He adds: “The center also serves as an incubator, allowing us to explore decarbonization and alternative fuel technologies and future opportunities to offer these services to our customers. Our remanufacturing team has successfully developed innovative solutions, such as assembling diagonal stair control units from individual parts, which helps circumvent global supply chain challenges.”

Strategically located near Singapore to serve Thiess’ operations in Asia and Australia, the center demonstrates the role Thiess can play in the future of sustainable mining, which includes creating opportunities in the communities where the company operates.

Thiess Engineering Indonesia CEO Daryl Albury said: “Thiess has invested in several local programs throughout the Batam region. We have partnered with Batam State Polytechnic and vocational schools across Batam to provide work experience programs and have sponsored local youth to participate in our flagship internship program at our training center in Balikpapan, providing valuable skills in mechanical and auto electrical fields. These contributions ensure that we are helping to create a robust workforce and pipeline of skilled local workers that support economic growth and innovation throughout the region.”

The Thiess Rebuild Center team also works closely with local authorities on various initiatives aimed at improving environmental sustainability and public health.

In addition to planting 500 mangrove trees and distributing 20 bins made from recycled oil drums to promote cleanliness and recycling across the region, Thiess joined the government’s program to reduce infant stunting by providing essential nutritional support to 10 affected children and their families in Batam. Albury said: “We are seeing positive health outcomes through this program, with children’s weight and height improving.”

Thiess concludes: “Through our Restoration Centre, we are reaffirming our commitment to sustainable practices, community support and technological advancement, setting a new standard for sustainable mining services and asset management.”