Antofagasta Launches South America's First Hydrogen Locomotive

Chile Travel and News | By Raul Silva M.| Nov., 2024

 

 The Chilean city and region of Antofagasta reached a historic milestone in South America's railway and mining industries with the launch of the first hydrogen-powered locomotive in the region in November 2024. The use of hydrogen-powered locomotives instead of diesel is expected to have a significant environmental impact, primarily by reducing pollutant emissions and greenhouse gases.

This groundbreaking achievement represents a major step toward sustainability, cementing Chile's position as a regional leader in adopting clean and renewable technologies. The machine will operate using hydrogen produced from renewable sources, ensuring zero emissions of carbon, nitrogen, and sulfur.

Innovation and Sustainability in Mining Transport

Image: PORTAL MINERO

The locomotive, developed in collaboration with the Chinese company CRRC Qishuyan, exemplifies innovation in freight transport. 

Featuring a 1,000-kilowatt engine and a 35 MPa hydrogen storage system, this machine significantly reduces both weight and emissions compared to traditional locomotives. Furthermore, its modular and standardized design ensures efficient and adaptable operation tailored to the needs of the Antofagasta to Bolivia Railway (FCAB).

Commitment to Decarbonization

The use of green hydrogen, produced from renewable sources, enables the locomotive to operate with “zero emissions,” releasing only water vapor and hot air. It is estimated that the use of green hydrogen could reduce carbon emissions by more than 99% compared to diesel engines. This is crucial for combating climate change and achieving sustainability targets. 

This initiative is part of Antofagasta Minerals' broader commitment to achieve a 30% reduction in greenhouse gas emissions by 2035 and carbon neutrality by 2050. The adoption of this technology not only benefits the environment but also enhances the efficiency and safety of transporting mining products such as sulfuric acid, copper concentrate, anodes, and cathodes.

A Promising Future for Green Mining

Antofagasta's hydrogen-powered locomotive marks the beginning of a series of initiatives aimed at transforming the mining industry toward more sustainable practices. By introducing fleets of electric vehicles and optimizing energy processes, Antofagasta is paving the way for a greener and more responsible future. This project not only highlights the potential of hydrogen as a clean fuel but also sets a benchmark for other industries in the region and around the world.

In short, Antofagasta's first hydrogen locomotive is a clear testament to Chile's commitment to innovation and sustainability. As hydrogen technology continues to evolve, its applications are likely to expand across diverse sectors, setting the stage for even greener and more efficient industrial operations.

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 How long is the expected service life of a hydrogen locomotive?

• The service life of a hydrogen locomotive is estimated to be 10 to 12 years for the fuel cell, the key component where electricity is generated from hydrogen and oxygen. This lifespan is comparable to that of other fuel cell technologies used in various applications. However, locomotives experience less wear and tear than conventional batteries, as they consume hydrogen as fuel without causing damage to the fuel cell in the process.

Additionally, the locomotive as a whole is expected to have a service life similar to that of traditional diesel locomotives, which can last several decades with proper maintenance. However, the costs and logistics of maintaining and replacing components such as fuel cells must be taken into account when assessing long-term economic viability.

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What is the range of a hydrogen locomotive?

• The range of a hydrogen locomotive varies depending on the model and operating conditions. In general, these trains are expected to cover approximately 460 kilometers on a single hydrogen refueling. However, exceptional performances have been recorded, such as the Flirt H2 train, which traveled 2,803 kilometers in a single trip without refueling, setting a world record.

This achievement highlights the potential of hydrogen trains to operate efficiently on long routes, making them a viable alternative to conventional diesel trains, particularly on non-electrified lines. The duration of continuous operation can reach up to 50 hours, depending on the design and route conditions.