Wedoany.com Report-Jun 13, Weir Group, a global engineering company, has secured £40 million ($54 million) in contracts from Codelco to deliver a sustainable tailings transport solution for the Talabre tailings dam expansion in Chile’s Atacama region. The project, announced in 2025, aims to integrate tailings streams from the Ministro Hales, Chuquicamata, and Radomiro Tomic mines, enhancing operational efficiency and safety with an expected 20-year lifespan.

Weir’s solution comprises GEHO positive displacement pumps and WARMAN centrifugal pumps, capable of handling the high volume and solid content of tailings.

The solution involves thickening tailings to about 70% solid content, enabling water reuse and improving dam stability. Weir’s equipment includes GEHO positive displacement pumps and WARMAN centrifugal pumps, designed to handle over 10,000 dry tonnes of tailings per hour. Integrated with NEXT intelligent digital solutions, the system optimizes energy use compared to alternative methods, supporting sustainable operations in the water-scarce Atacama region.

These contracts, recorded in Q2 2025, mark the largest single order for Weir’s GEHO pumps. Beyond equipment supply, Weir will provide ongoing support through its regional service center network, ensuring reliable aftermarket services for Codelco.

Jon Stanton, Weir CEO: “We are delighted to have secured these significant contracts for our tailings management solutions, which include both our market-leading GEHO and WARMAN ranges that provide energy-efficient tailings transportation at scale. Our engineers have developed a differentiated solution, particularly addressing Codelco’s stringent sustainability goals for operating in the water-scarce climate and geology of the Atacama region. Our proven experience on large-scale tailings operations as well as local presence mean Codelco can come to expect the world-class service Weir is known for.”

Weir has also partnered with CiDRA through a global collaboration and strategic investment to accelerate the commercialization of CiDRA’s P29 technology. This initiative focuses on addressing mining industry challenges, including declining ore grades, water scarcity, carbon emissions, and tailings management, further advancing sustainable practices.

The Talabre project underscores Weir’s commitment to innovative, energy-efficient solutions that support environmental goals and operational reliability in the mining sector.