Caterpillar has launched the Cat D11 XE, a 100‑plus‑tonne high‑drive electric drive dozer that scales its D6 XE and D8 XE electric architecture up to flagship mining and bulk earthmoving duties. The D11 XE replaces torque converters, multi‑speed transmissions and drop boxes with a generator–motor powertrain, keeping the diesel engine in its optimal speed band to cut fuel use per tonne moved and reduce mechanical complexity. Continuous electric torque to the tracks reduces gear‑shift interruptions, track slip and undercarriage wear while improving fine blade control in variable ground conditions.

Fluor Corporation has received full notice to proceed as EPCM contractor for the Fourth Grinding Line Expansion Project at Sierra Gorda Sociedad Contractual Minera’s large open-pit copper-molybdenum operation, 60 km south of Calama in Chile’s Antofagasta Region. The brownfield project adds a new grinding line to the existing concentrator, requiring integration with operating crushing, conveying and process water systems. For geotechnical and civil teams, key tasks will centre on foundations, earthworks and tie-ins around an active plant with constrained layouts and ongoing production.

Waratah Minerals has defined a maiden JORC mineral resource of 3.1Moz gold at its Spur project in New South Wales, comprising 82.9Mt at 1.2g/t across the Spur and Consols zones. The company is planning further drilling to target a 5Moz resource, focusing on extensions of the current mineralisation envelope and infill of higher-grade shoots. For mine planning and geotechnical teams, the current scale suggests potential for a large-tonnage open pit with subsequent underground options if continuity at depth is confirmed.