surface drilling & loading - komatsu mining corp....2016, liebherr has launched its new entry into...
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Featured Article
SURFACE DRILLING & LOADING
http://www.joyglobal.com/surface-mining/blasthole-drills
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Electric drive in larger hydraulic excavators
continues to gain momentum. Hitachi
Construction Machinery – Americas
recently announced the introduction of five
mining electric drive shovels to the US and Latin
American markets – the EX1900E-6, EX2600E-6,
EX3600E-6, EX5600E-6 and EX8000E-6. The five
EX-6 electric drive mining shovels feature an
advanced zero-emission electric drive motor
designed to provide a cost-effective solution to
mining operations where low-cost electric power
is available.
“The combination of features on the new EX-
6 electric drive shovels will deliver value to our
customers by providing higher productivity and
lower total cost of ownership through efficiency
reliability and durability,” said Craig Lamarque,
Division Manager, Hitachi.
The Hitachi TFOA-KK electric motors are
powerful, tough and require less overhauling,
periodic inspection and service. The motor’s
voltage ranges from AC 6600V-6900V/60HZ and
results in a rated continuous output ranging
from 610 kW on the EX1900E-6 to 1,200 kW x 2
on the EX8000E-6.
“The design of the new EX-6 series electric
drive shovels results in simplified and improved
daily maintenance. The machines do not need
costly consumables such as engine oil, filters,
coolant or fan belts. Components related to an
engine are also eliminated, such as radiators, air
filters and mufflers. In addition, an auto-
lubrication system eliminates cumbersome daily
lubrication and a fast-filling system enables
ground-level refills reducing time during regular
stops.”
The five shovels are equipped with Hitachi’s
exclusive level crowding and arc digging system
that provides high productivity while ensuring
efficiency.
Operators have access to Hitachi’s best-in-
class operator station that features increased
visibility and comfort. Fluid-filled elastic mounts
reduce cab shocks and vibration by 20-30%
compared to rubber mounts, and the advanced
multi-display monitor provides operators with
key machine status information. “This provides
more accurate machine driving status
information which will, in turn, improve machine
performance and uptime.”
The shovels come standard equipped with a
remote machine monitoring system that
provides access to machines from a personal
computer in an office through Hitachi’s Global e-
Service. Operating data are transmitted to a
Hitachi server for processing, and then to
Extraction excellence
Paul Moore reviews newmachines and best practiceacross hydraulic excavators,rope shovels, wheel loadersand surface drills
SURFACE DRILLING AND LOADING
International Mining | APRIL 2016
The Atlas Copco teleremotesystem allows the operator to
perform any drill functionremotely, to include auto
functions (operator assist andautonomous). The system is
scalable for an operator tocontrol one to many drills
The electric EX8000E-6 is now available in theAmericas
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customers and dealers. This system is available
24 hours a day, all year round. All five electric
shovels come with the optional SkyAngle™
system designed to increase peripheral vision
around the excavator by providing synthesised
multiple images captured by cameras
specifically positioned at four locations around
the excavator. The feature displays camera
views on a single monitor to allow operators an
auxiliary means of checking for ground level
obstacles.
The EX-6 electric drive mining excavator front
attachments are made from welded steel plates,
not cast structures. The boom and arm are
welded from low-stress and high-tensile strength
steel for a full box section design. This rigid box
design resists twisting and bending forces.
The undercarriage design for the five new
models is the same as Hitachi’s popular Giant
EX Series. The track shoes incorporate a triple
grouser design and single roller; and roller
guides are used to extend service life for track
shoes. All models feature a filtered and
monitored hydraulic system that will monitor
and warn operators about machine hydraulic
health.
Komatsu designed its new 677 t PC7000
machine, also featured in IM March 2016, with
the aim of creating the safest and highest
performing shovel in its class. Powered by two
1,250 kW diesel engines, the Komatsu PC7000
can lift a 36 m³ front shovel bucket. Adapting todifferent mining approaches and circumstances,
Komatsu also provides, in option, backhoe
attachments with a 36 m³ bucket and an electricdrive train.
By design, the shovel matches 240 to 290
short ton trucks such as the Komatsu 830E and
Komatsu 860E. “Operators will experience
improved ease when digging and bucket filling,”
as Komatsu reviewed both the bucket design
and hydraulic layout. With the new open circuit
hydraulic system the shovel swings faster and
penetrates the material easier. Reduced
maintenance time, thanks to increased width of
walkways and repositioning of major service
points for easier access, was taken into account
when scheming the shovel. Komtrax Plus, the
latest Komatsu machine monitoring system, is
installed on the machine and lets customers
check the operating status of their machine. On
request, data can be transferred via satellite
directly to maintenance specialists, to inform
them of actual hydraulic pressures and engine
performance.
Continuing to improve machine and human
safety, Komatsu developed a new safety concept
for this new machine. The Komatsu PC7000 is
equipped with an illuminated 45° primary
access and egress stairway. In case of emergency,
a solid anti-slip, flip-down ladder provides
secure egress form the cab and machinery
house. In addition, Komatsu has upgraded the
light arrangements to LED technology for
brighter and safer service and operation.
Also at Bauma 2016 and covered in IM March
2016, Liebherr has launched its new entry into
the 200 t excavator class: the R9200, built to
complement the broad mining product range.
The 12.5 m3 bucket is the biggest in its class,
and offers sustainable performance while
delivering peak fuel burn efficiency, even in the
most challenging conditions. The mining
excavator is designed to match mining trucks
with payloads of up to 140 t.
The new excavator is powered by the
Cummins QSK38 diesel engine that complies
with US EPA Tier 2 or 4i exhaust emission limits
and has a rated output of 810 kW. The cutting-
edge cab of the R9200 provides the operator
with a panoramic view of their operation, which
leads to efficient truck loading and safe machine
positioning. The R9200 integrates an advanced
electronic piloting control system which is both
intuitive and versatile.
Paul Moore spoke to Swann Blaise, Group
Leader – Marketing Department at Liebherr-
Mining Equipment Colmar SAS on its key areas
of demand and product developments. The
group is seeing demand for its 100-200 t and
300-400 t class hydraulic excavators in Western
Europe, South Africa, the Middle East, and
Oceania but also in new countries such as
Panama and Myanmar.
In terms of adding value in terms of
aftermarket service/parts supply in the current
market, he states: “We will continuously expand
our global product offerings. This includes
offering such as general and customer focused
repair and reman programs, tools such as the
Liebherr Trouble Shoot Advisor, training and
support offerings and last but not least the
expansion of our global service network. Our
products will be supported through product
service specialists with a customer minded
approach for solution finding. The final target is,
for those products which we have in our
portfolio, we want to be the preferred choice for
mining customers.”
In addition, as an OEM, Liebherr has built a
solid reputation for its development and
production of high quality strategic mining
components, from engines to GET and it aims to
continue this “as it ensures reliable performance
for the entire machine.”
Liebherr is seeing demand for its 100-200 t and300-400 t class hydraulic excavators inestablished markets but also in new countriessuch as Panama and Myanmar
SURFACE DRILLING AND LOADING
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On increasing interest in electric excavators,
Blaise points out that the fuel price economy
with an electric excavator is not the main
advantage, rather the electric drive version is an
efficient alternative as it means less vibration
resulting in higher component lifetime; lower
maintenance costs; less noise pollution; high
motor efficiency; and maximum efficiency in
cold climate conditions when combined with an
Arctic kit. The increased demand for electric
machines is mainly from owner operators rather
than contractors, who prefer the greater
flexibility of diesel machines. The electric
Liebherr range now includes models right up to
the largest R9800.
In terms of what the market can expect in the
future for the next generation of shovels from
Liebherr, the company told IM: “We have
identified six main subjects that are driving the
success of our customers. These subjects, the
Liebherr ‘6 pillars’ are: Reliability, Efficiency,
Productivity, Safety, Customer Service and
Environment, all finally impacting the cost per
tonne. Liebherr will focus to improve our mining
range with a focus on these 6 pillars.”
The new EC750E crawler excavator from Volvo
Construction Equipment features “fuel efficiency
innovations, increased productivity and
performance that helps ensure maximum return
on investment.”
The EC750E from Volvo Construction
Equipment is a 75 t class crawler excavator that it
says offers the “perfect combination of power
and stability to deliver high capacity in most
applications.” Powered by Volvo’s Tier 4
Final/Stage IV compliant D16 engine, the heavy-
duty excavator delivers increased horsepower of
374 kW utilising advanced fuel efficiency
technology, “ensuring an extremely responsive
operation for maximum productivity and
profitability.”
The EC750E also offers an innovative electro-
hydraulic system, optimised to operate in
harmony with the robust engine, delivering
greater operator control and productivity. The
hydraulics, in combination with Volvo’s advanced
ECO mode, work in unison to reduce internal
losses in the hydraulic circuit – resulting in
improved fuel efficiency without loss of
performance in most operating conditions.
“Built with the operator in mind, the industry-
leading Volvo cab delivers a superior operator
experience, with a low-noise environment for
optimum operator productivity. Ergonomically
positioned interfaces – including the joysticks,
keypad and LCD monitor – and clear all-around
visibility ensures maximum efficiency and ease of
use. The spacious cab features ample storage
and leg room, 12 air-conditioner vents and
adjustable seat, keeping the operator fresh, alert
and focused.”
The EC750E yields superior digging
performance, including maximum break out
forces of 328 kN, as well as good fuel efficiency
and quick cycle times for a maximum return on
investment. “The well-balanced excavator
features a wide track gauge, long track length, a
retractable undercarriage and an optimised
counterweight for solid stability, enabling
operators to work with confidence in adverse
terrains. An integrated work mode system is
designed to enhance fuel efficiency and machine
performance, allowing operators to choose the
best work mode for the task at hand, ensuring
the correct configuration for any job.”
To further enhance controllability, these
machines are equipped with high system
pressure and durable tracks to ensure greater
power and ease of handling when climbing
gradients and travelling over unstable ground.
With the ability to access hard-to-reach areas of a
jobsite, combined with the newly developed fully
electro-hydraulic system, customers can cut cycle
times to a minimum and increase profitability.
The EC750E features a reinforced heavy-duty
boom and arm that are built from high strength
tensile steel, designed to work in harmony with
the machine, maximising uptime and performance.
For added protection and reliability, even in
severe conditions, steel strips are welded under
the arm, and a built-in, heavy duty plate is
featured on the underside of the machine. Built
with protected components, including a strong
frame structure for longevity and sustained uptime
in demanding applications, the EC750E enables
customers to achieve almost non-stop production.
To further maximise uptime, the machine
provides the customer with quick and safer
servicing, thanks to easily accessible
maintenance points via the wide-opening and
conveniently located compartment doors, using
central and surrounding walkways.
For added safety and durability, optional FOG
(Falling Object Guard) and FOPS (Falling Object
Protective Structure) certified cabs provide
peace-of-mind for working in tough applications.
The EC750E can also be fitted with a full length
track guard for added protection.
To increase versatility, these excavators are
compatible with a range of durable attachments,
including the general purpose, heavy duty and
extreme-duty buckets. Purpose-built to work in
coordination with Volvo machines, the Volvo
attachments form one solid, reliable unit.
The EC750E can also be equipped with a Volvo
hydraulic breaker to degrade even the most
challenging materials. With consistent power and
high breaking force, customers can benefit from
maximum impact and durability.
Volvo also offers an attachment management
system, allowing the settings for up to 20
different attachments to be stored. The system
allows the operator to pre-set hydraulic flow and
pressure inside the cab through the touchscreen
monitor, ensuring versatility through the use of
various attachments.
Russian training and best practiceOne of the two leading Russian shovel suppliers,
IZ-KARTEX, launched a new training complex in
January 2016, made by Transas, one of the
leading Russian manufacturers of simulators. The
EKG excavator training complex is designed to
help operators adapt to working with a new line
of excavators and allow operators to absorb
training techniques and methods of work for the
safe and productive operation of the machines.
The complex is a full training facility,
consisting of an instructor module and driver
module. The driver module simulates the cab of
the excavator – a chair on the dynamic platform
with a remote control. The simulator cabin of the
excavator is equipped with instrumentation,
monitoring and alarm devices corresponding to
their placement in a real excavator cabin.
The virtual excavator working equipment
corresponds to the real conditions of the
excavator and characteristics of the rock mass.
Through the use of a dynamic platform and cabin
environment, the closest approach in the learning
process is achieved.
This training complex was made to train
operators mainly from companies purchasing
excavators with a 20-25 m3 bucket capacity (EKG-
18R, EKG-20K, EKG-20KM).
In terms of new machine deliveries, a second
IZ-KARTEX EKG-10 started working at the
Taybinsky coal mine at the end of October 2015.
The uniqueness of this machine is that it will be
powered by AC drive, the first time this solution
has been used on an EKG-10. The use of the AC
drive reduces the load on the mechanical
equipment (reduced moment of inertia,
intelligent control), reduces the amount of
maintenance (no brush assemblies in electrical
machines), and allows the use of the information
system to increase efficiency. The shovel was
mounted by the regional service company OMZ-
Siberia-Service. The Taybinsky coal mine was put
into operation in November 2014, and is located
near Kiselevsk in the Kemerovo region. The
estimated working life of the mine will be 49
years.
At a mining conference recently organised by
Russia’s other main excavator maker Uralmash,
experts, scientists and manufacturers discussed
trends in the development of modern mining
equipment, techniques and their efficiency.
Uralmash was controlled by IZ-KARTEX owner
OMZ until mid-2015 when it became part of
Gazprombank – Machine-Building.
Within the framework of the conference, the
delegates analysed trends in open pit mining and
International Mining | APRIL 2016
SURFACE DRILLING AND LOADING
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International Mining | APRIL 2016
ore-preparation techniques, looked at offerings
from domestic manufacturers, and the
development of loading machines with a case
study of a Uralmash EKG-18 excavator. The
delegates also visited production shops where an
EKG-18 for ZAO Polyus was being prepared for
shipment, and saw the results of an investment
program from 2013 and new plans to upgrade the
production facilities in 2016-2017. The main plant
products for the coming years will be power
shovels with buckets of 12 to 35 m3.
The investments in the development of these
production facilities will provide for the
manufacture of 10-12 excavators per year and to
date, contracts for eight EKG-18 excavators have
been signed. But there is also a lot in the
pipeline. New orders include from the ZAO
Stroyservice company, which is buying five
excavators with a 18 m3 bucket for the Kuzbass
region. Copper giant Ural Mining and
Metallurgical Company (UMMC) is also
examining possibilities for the placement of
orders for 23 large walking and crawler-mounted
excavators for the period up to 2020; while coal
major Kuzbassrazrezugol OAO, has drafted a
contract for a new EKG-35.
China’s TYHI continues growthIn China, in September 2015, market leader
Taiyuan Heavy Industry (TYHI) signed a contract
for two WK-12 excavators to go to CCL India
(Central Coalfields Ltd), a subsidiary of Coal India
Ltd). These add to machines delivered in recent
years to South Africa, Chile and elsewhere.
In the domestic market, TYHI has a contract for
five large WK-35 shovels which are specially
designed for high altitude operation, for delivery
to Tibet Dragon Copper Industry Co Ltd. The order
dates to November 2014 and one unit has now
been delivered. TYHI has since also signed
further contracts for five WK-12 shovels and five
60-110E Semi-Mobile Crushing Stations with the
same customer. A further new 60-110E Semi-
Mobile Crushing Station order was signed with
Yuanjiacun Iron Ore, part of TISCO, in June 2015,
which is the second installation of this model
TYHI will have provided for this customer. An
order for a 9,000 t/h spreader was also signed at
the same time. These TISCO orders will start
being delivered in May 2016. Finally, TYHI has
signed a contract for a 4,500 t/h spreader with
Baotou Steel Ltd in January 2016; while a 60-89
Semi-Mobile Crushing Station, specially designed
for Panzhihua Steel, is currently being
commissioned.
FLANDERS and shovel FreedomShovels are continually designed with larger
dippers and associated infrastructure to increase
production efficiency. Unfortunately, the shovel
mechanical structure and material handling
capacity can exceed the DC motor’s ability to
support the full potential of the shovel.
FLANDERS says it has addressed this mismatch
by developing the Freedom™ platform.
“The shovel boom and mechanical structure
are at its weakest point while at fully extended
crowd, high in the bank with the hoist motors at
or near stall condition. The shovel operator
instinctively manipulates the crowd to
compensate for the potential lack of crowd and
hoist power. Each time the crowd is actuated to
correct this impending stall condition, a full
fatigue cycle is exerted on the boom, ropes,
sticks and body. This can lead to excess rope
wear, boom and dipper stress-fractures and early
motor failure. These conditions also manifest into
reduced shovel cycle time. The Freedom Platform
monitors these stresses in real-time and
dynamically delivers increased hoist motor
torque when favourable dig conditions allow. This
is typically low in the bank where the shovel is
structurally at its strongest point.”
Freedom utilises an open architecture software
that monitors shovel stresses and electrical
system parameters to provide state-of-the-art
adaptive controls. Hoist torque is increased only
when dig conditions allow. By using a FLANDERS
crowd motor, that provides an increased available
stall current of up to 50% (when properly
equipped) over the OEM motor, the operator is
able to enter the bank with more cutting force,
and fill the dipper early in the dig cycle, low in
the bank.
“FLANDERS is the only company in the market
to provide real-time feedback to respond and
modulate the hoist rope tension in response to
actual field dig conditions felt by the boom,
unlike competitive offerings that are solely based
on a pre-engineered and perceived position of
the dipper in relation to the dig face.”
FLANDERS’ Freedom upgrade includes the
following critical components – FLANDERS
exclusive Optimised Bank Performance (OBP);
the Freedom Control System; ABB DCS800
drives; FLANDERS Enhanced Crowd Motor; and
FLANDERS Enhanced Hoist Motors (which are
optional).
“The DCS800 drives provide you with the
security that you are utilising state-of-the-art
technology that will be supported for years to
come. FLANDERS exclusive open-architecture
allows you to choose either FLANDERS or an
existing OEM hoist motor. Our Freedom upgrade
incorporates the substantially improved
reliability and performance of FLANDERS’
designed M21 and F22 crowd motors. These
motors fit in the same footprint as OEM crowd
motors, and boast increased available stall
current of up to 50% when properly equipped.
This translates to more allowable torque low in
the bank and ultimately faster cycle times.
FLANDERS’ crowd motors have shown
documented electrical life of greater than >100%
over competitive motors. This supports longer
uptime, reduced maintenance cycles, and lower
cost of repairs.”
FLANDERS designed M24 and M22A motors
are offered as a drop in replacement for current
hoist motors. “The motor is designed to provide
additional torque and deliver exceptional life
compared to the OEM motor. Current applications
have seen near 40,000 h of continuous operation
with no major maintenance or rework. Equally as
important, the commutator incorporates
FLANDERS’ exclusive design that minimises
degradation in life after performing turn and
undercut refurbishment. Unlike competitive
motors that may actually weaken the armature
after rework, our motors will continue to
outperform its rivals.”
The company says that the Freedom upgrade
can provide increased reliability, machine up-time
and lower cost of maintenance, estimating that
the Freedom system will yield an 8-10% increase
in productivity (tonnes/sec) and more material
moved at a lower cost per tonne.
New bucketwheel generationBucketwheel mining retains an important place in
the bulk mining and handling market. The
Industrial Solutions business area of
thyssenkrupp will presents a new generation of
compact bucketwheel excavators at Bauma
2016. Known as the “Barracuda” and the “Mine
Summary of theFreedom™ platformfrom FLANDERS
SURFACE DRILLING AND LOADING
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Shark,” both machines can work in hard
materials with compressive strengths of up to 50
MPa. While bucket wheel excavators today
mostly work in soft and medium-hard rock with a
UCS of up to 20 MPa, this newly designed type of
equipment is capable of working in a broad range
of materials including coal, limestone, phosphate
rock, potash, frozen materials in winter conditions
as well as in corresponding overburden layers.
In order to fulfil the requirements of the severe
working conditions, special bucket and tooth
designs have been applied by thyssenkrupp
Industrial Solutions. These designs are based on
innovative testing methods and include a larger
number of teeth and buckets. This stage of
development of bucket wheel excavators
demonstrates the changing character of the
extraction process from digging to cutting.
“The combined extracting and loading process
within a single machine eliminates hazardous
and ecologically harmful blasting as well as
additional loading activities. That is why health
and safety standards at the highest level can be
ensured. Considering the fact that the new
bucketwheel excavators are able to produce
throughputs of over 3,000 t/h, a lesser number of
vehicles and manpower are required, the
operational expenditures can be reduced
significantly.”
To get a first impression of the new generation
of compact bucketwheel excavators from
thyssenkrupp, their working principle and
application possibilities, a model of the
“Barracuda“ will be on display at Bauma 2016.
thyssenkrupp told IM that it has supplied several
standard size bucketwheel excavators to Serbia
in recent years. In addition, thyssenkrupp has
executed multiple modernisations and
refurbishments of bucketwheel excavators in
Germany, India, Kosovo and Serbia.
Tenova TAKRAF’s bucketwheel evolutionTenova TAKRAF is a pioneer in bucketwheel
excavator (BWE) technology, having supplied the
world’s first machines for industrial use in the
early 1920s. Then and now, its office and
workshop in Lauchhammer, Germany is the
centre of expertise for Tenova TAKRAF’s mining
technologies. The company told IM: “There has
been a 90 year evolution of BWEs that reached
its peak in the 1980s in the various German
lignite mines. This is where Tenova TAKRAF
installed one of the largest machines ever, a true
giant, with a daily capacity of about 240,000 BCM
[bank cubic metres] at RWE’s Hambach mine.
BWE technology has also been successfully
introduced in various countries ranging from
other mines in central and southeastern Europe
to Asia and Australia. In conjunction with
shiftable and quickly relocatable conveyor
systems, the overall operating costs are very low.
It has been proven that for medium and long-
term operations for soft and medium-hard
materials, the lifecycle costs are unbeatable as
compared to shovel and truck operations.”
In 2015, Tenova TAKRAF finalised its most
recent BWE project for NLC at the Neyveli lignite
mine in the Indian state of Tamil Nadu. This
project was conducted and executed mainly by
TAKRAF India with support from TAKRAF Germany
on an overall lump sum turnkey basis. The design
rate per individual machine is 5,460 m3/h (loose)
which refers to about 40,000 m3 of bank material
per day. With a 34 m long bucketwheel boom, the
machine can reach a digging height of 30 m. This
is roughly 2.5 times more than what the largest
shovels can safely handle. “The design of these
excavators was adapted to the significant variety
of Neyveli’s overburden characteristics between
soft and sticky at the one extreme, and hard and
very abrasive at the other.”
Tenova TAKRAF also received an order to
conduct the entire maintenance for the machines.
“This is a very interesting new area for us”, Dr
Frank Hubrich, CEO of Tenova TAKRAF, told IM –
“It’s a typical win-win situation for us as the
OEM, and for our client. We become part of the
daily operation and we are thus able to quickly
fine tune details of the machine for improved
performance and availability.”
Just a few months before the hand-over in
India, Tenova TAKRAF passed a performance test
with its latest BWE from the well-known SRs
2000 series, which boasts more than 50
worldwide installations. It is also employed in
overburden applications; however the challenge
in this instance pertained to both the slope
conditions and the cold climate in the area of
Inner Mongolia in China.
The attached picture provides a good view of
the conditions the machine was designed for.
Although it reaches the same 30 m digging
height of the Indian machine, this machine
required a 10 m longer boom. This was deemed
essential for safe excavation, which requires that
there be relatively flat side slopes. The design
rate is 6,600 m3/h (loose); so the machine falls
within the 60,000 BCM per day class. The
machine is connected to the face conveyor via a
telescopic loading unit, which avoids any floating
transfers.
In 2008, Tenova TAKRAF handed over a BWE of
model SRs(H)1050.23 to the Macedonian Brod
Gneotino mine. The typical compact design of
this machine is based on a BW boom supported
by two hydraulic cylinders underneath. This
avoids any boom suspension on top of the
machine as would normally be the case in larger
BWEs, such as the mentioned machines in India
and China. The counterweight boom is simply
attached to the ring girder of the turntable below
the discharge boom. For boom lengths of up to
30 m, this design is far more economic.
SURFACE DRILLING AND LOADING
The Industrial Solutions business area ofthyssenkrupp will presents a new generation ofcompact bucketwheel excavators at Bauma 2016
APRIL 2016 | International Mining
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A special feature of this BWE is a hydraulic
levelling system that allows the machine to travel
and operate on benches with a longitudinal slope
of up to 11%. This machine is the largest compact
BWE employing this technology. For mines with
inclined seams, this option becomes an
important operational advantage for being able
to selectively excavate along the boundaries of
the layers. The Macedonian machine has a
design rate of 4,800 m3/h (loose), and reaches a
maximum digging height of 23 m with its 27 m
long boom.
On wider applications, Dr Hubrich also stated:
“The BWE has been mainly employed in lignite
and coal mine operations. However, this exciting
technology has an interesting future in
alternative areas where large amounts of
material have to be moved – I am thinking of
larger scale sand mining for construction and
land reclamation, as well as mineral sands
projects. The continuous method of digging and
slowly moving equipment also provides an
excellent opportunity for highly automated
solutions.”
Wheel loader developmentsKomatsu America Corp recently introduced its
new WA600-8 wheel loader. Equipped with an
EPA Tier 4 Final certified engine, this latest
addition to the wheel loader family combines an
enhanced lockup torque converter function and
SmartLoader logic to achieve low fuel
consumption and high travel speeds.
By optimising control of engine power, and
improving power train and hydraulic efficiency,
the WA600-8 consumes up to 13% less fuel than
its Tier 3 predecessor. Also, the standard bucket
capacity is increased to 9.2 cubic yards and the
bucket now fills easier, retains material better
and provides better visibility, contributing to
machine efficiency and productivity.
“With significant enhancements in production
capacity and fuel economy, the WA600-8 is
designed to maximise production efficiency in
loading off-highway trucks or load-and carry
applications,” said Rob McMahon, Product
Manager for Komatsu America. “Full rear fenders
with steps and handrails at both sides of the
machine add convenience for daily inspections.
And operators will appreciate enhancements in
cab comfort and machine stability,” McMahon
said. The Komatsu Diesel Particulate Filter (KDPF)
and other after treatment components were
designed in conjunction with the engine for
efficiency and long life. More than 98% of KDPF
regeneration is performed passively, with no
action required of the operator and no
interference with machine operation.
Komatsu’s SmartLoader Logic, combined with
the enhanced lockup torque converter that
activates in 2nd, 3rd and 4th gear, provides
optimal engine torque for improved acceleration,
hill-climbing ability, a higher top speed and fuel
savings.
The pioneering KOMTRAX Plus telematics
system and monitor provides key machine
metrics, including KDPF status and DEF-level
data, fuel consumption, plus performance
information collected and sorted by operator ID;
while Komatsu Auto Idle Shutdown reduces idle
time and saves fuel.
The Variable Traction Control system and
Modulated Clutch system provide optimal tractive
effort for various ground conditions.
The new Hyundai HL970 wheel loader is
making its way to the European market this year
at Bauma 2016. The new 23.5 t wheeled loader,
with a 3.6-4.2 m³ bucket capacity, is currentlyone of the largest of its stable mates which
comprises the recently introduced 15 t HL955 and
the 18.8 t HL960 completing the new wheeled
loader line up for now. The HL970 is powered by
a Scania DC09 085A Stage IV engine boasting a
gross 232 kW. Hyundai has opted for a combined
solution of EGR and SCR technologies, without
the need for an additional DPF. The new machine
is up to 10% more fuel-efficient in truck-loading
than its Dash 9A Series predecessor, depending
on the application, and has a travel speed of up
to 40 km/h. Bauma 2016 is also the world
premiere for the HL980, with a 5.4 m3 bucket
capacity and weight of 31 t with a net power of
280 kW from a Scania DC13 engine.
Hyundai states: “The robust and powerful
HL970 is well suited to the quarrying, mining,
construction and material handling sectors. The
high-strength design structure and robust system
has been proven by rigorous road tests at various
work sites. The durability of the hydraulic hoses
and attachments has been improved significantly
compared to the previous generation of Dash 9A
series.”
In addition to its fuel efficiency the HL970
benefits from an ECO Pedal, which when the
operator uses the accelerator pedal, he/she is
able to distinguish between economical
operation and power operation – it recognises
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International Mining | APRIL 2016
BWE SRs(K)2000.30 at Zhahanaoermine, China
Bauma 2016 will be the world premiere for theHL980, with a 5.4 m3 bucket capacity and
weight of 31 t and a net power of 280 kW froma Scania DC13 engine
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the economical operation which in turn reduces
the fuel consumption.
The HL970 is also fitted with an ECO Gauge
which enables the economic operation of the
machine. The gauge level changes colour with
the engine torque and fuel efficiency level. It is
also able to provide the status of fuel
consumption so that the average rate and the
total amount of fuel consumed are
displayed. Hourly and daily based fuel
consumption can be checked in detail which
helps the operator run the machine more
economically and efficiently.
The automatic/manual cumulative weighing
function greatly improves operating efficiency.
Icons displaying weighing errors and the two-
colour weight value indicator on the monitor
enable accurate weighing to support efficient
production management.
Hyundai engineers have also redesigned the
wheel loader buckets on the HL series and they
now have a better fill factor and an additional
spill guard to minimise spillage of loaded
materials. The HL970 boasts up to 5% greater
productivity in comparison to the Dash 9A Series.
The boom and bucket are both controlled by
either the joystick or fingertip system. The new
wheel loader is also available in an XT version for
a larger dumping height.
Best practice in wheel loader operationBased on numerous production studies
conducted at mines around the world and at
Caterpillar proving grounds, Caterpillar wheel
loader applications specialists have
recommended a number of best practices for the
most efficient face loading, many of which are
common sense but are still not implemented by
many operators. Its range includes the 993K and
994K which are widely used in mining for their
flexibility in tasks such as blending.
In terms of site prep for wheel loader
efficiency, Cat states that the optimal bench
height is at the maximum lift height of the loader.
“Higher benches have the potential to collapse
and overload the bucket, which can damage the
loader. Avoid a steep material slope angle as this
can cause material to fall unexpectedly into the
bucket, overload the machine and cause damage.
Maintain a smooth floor and good drainage,
because wet rocks cut tyres easier.”
Better operations also require cleaning the
floor between trucks to maintain good floor
conditions. This helps avoid loader and truck tyre
damage and helps minimise truck manoeuvring,
which wastes time and fuel, when pulling in and
out of the loading site.
On pile engagement and bucket fill efficiency,
wheel loader operators should “begin loading
the bucket as low as possible right above the
floor for optimum pile penetration. Do not drive
into the pile with the front wheels to reduce
potential for damaging the tyres. Avoid tyre spin
to reduce tyre wear and tyre cuts. Keep the frame
straight when digging to maximise pile
penetration and production.”
Cat recommends a loading time at the face of
less than 15 seconds for high production, good
fuel efficiency and reduced heat generation and
wear in the torque converter. “Lift the bucket
before crowding the bucket into the pile, because
crowding is not producing material, but it is
unnecessarily burning fuel. The bucket should be
full when the lift arms are horizontal. Continuing
to fill the bucket above horizontal is not efficient
and does not use the strength of a wheel loader.
Never operate a bare bucket edge, because it will
ruin the bucket. Make sure ground engaging tools
are in place and are replaced when worn out.”
Finally on truck-loader efficiency, the operator
should spot trucks with a loaded bucket.
Spotting trucks with an empty bucket means the
loader isn’t moving material during part of the
cycle, which wastes time and fuel. “Keep the
rear tyres of the truck off the pile to avoid
damage to the truck tyres. Spot trucks at 45° for
ease of pile-to-truck approach and to minimise
cycle time. Use a tight V pattern with the loader
into the truck to minimise loading time and
maximise production. This also limits tyre travel
to reduce tyre wear and fuel burn. Position the
loader 1.0 to 1.5 wheel revolutions from the face
to the truck to minimise cycle time and improve
production. Pad the truck bed with smaller
material when loading oversize rocks to protect
the truck bed from damage. Minimise wait time
between trucks for good production efficiency.”
New drilling solutionsIn new models, the Caterpillar MD5075C Track
Drill replaces the MD5075 and is capable of
drilling holes of 76 to 114.3 mm in diameter to a
depth of 31 m. The fuel efficient 224 kW C9
engine can be configured to meet emissions
standards worldwide. The compressor, which
features widely variable air control, produces 350
cfm @ 150 psi (9.9 m3/min @ 10.2 bar).
Two different rock drill choices enable matching
to the application to achieve the highest production
rate. The standard rock drill on the MD5075C is the
HPR5123, which uses 45 or 51 mm drill rod. Also
available is the HPR4519 Rock Drill, which uses 45
mm drill rod. Caterpillar says it is the only
manufacturer offering rock drills designed to be
serviced on-site for reduced downtime and costs.
The control system features touch screen
navigation for Drill Assist, rearview camera, tram,
water, rock drill auto-lube, alerts, drilling and
target depths, penetration rate, machine
performance, total hours and service. The high
resolution display uses simple icons to aid
navigation and control, and it shows constant
performance monitoring of pressures, rotation
and hole depth. The depth indicator ensures all
holes are drilled to the planned depth to promote
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Caterpillar wheel loader applications specialists haverecommended a number of best practices for most
efficient face loading, many of which are common sensebut are still not implemented by many operators
APRIL 2016 | International Mining
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a better floor, reduce secondary blasting and
reduce equipment wear.
“The MD5075C also incorporates technology to
assist in operations and equipment management.
To support the operator, Drill Assist monitors the
main hydraulic systems and automatically
adjusts to pre-programmed parameters. It
incorporates anti-jam, anti-plunge and anti-plug,
which combine to boost productivity and increase
the life of the drill string.”
Cat Track Drills are equipped with the Cat
Monitoring System (Cat MS), which monitors
critical engine functions and will derate the
engine to protect itself from damage if needed.
When critical conditions arise, the Cat MS
monitor displays warning lights and sounds
alarms.
Cat Track Drills also include Product Link™,
which allows remote machine monitoring and
tracking reported via satellite and cellular
networks. The system monitors machine status
and provides utilisation and machine health
trends through reports generated by VisionLink®
software.
“Cat drills are designed for maintainability.
Simple and well-organised electrical/hydraulic
arrangements, logically located components and
ground level service facilitate maintenance. 100%
of all rock drill service can be completed without
removing the drill from the feed. Additionally, the
MD5075C is equipped for technicians to quickly
diagnose system performance using the Cat
Electronic Technician service tool. The MD5075C
also has additional fuel filtration to help ensure
reliable engine operation and extended component
life. The remote-mounted secondary and tertiary
4-micron filters are located for easy access.”
Just launched is the new Cat MD6420C Rotary
Drill which delivers “high production and fast
cycle times thanks to the application-matched
power train and state-of-the-art control system
with advanced diagnostics and automation.” An
upgrade of the MD6420B, the MD6420C offers
three power train choices to deliver the right drill
for the application:
n Cat C32 engine (with 2,000 cfm @ 100 psi
compressor)
n Cat C32 engine (with 1500 cfm @
150/350/500 psi compressor)
n Cat C32 engine (w/2600 cfm @ 100 psi
compressor)
Multiple air compressor packages for hole
flushing enable fast cycle times. Maximum hole
diameter is 311 mm. “A number of new features
make it possible for drill set-ups from hole to
hole to outpace competitive drills. The MD6420C
offers fast tram speed via a proven and durable
undercarriage from the Cat large hydraulic
excavator line. It has a lighter weight mast that
can be raised or lowered in less than 40 seconds,
even with a full pipe rack and full drill string, and
quick and simple mast
pinning uses a two-pin
design versus
competitors’ eight-pin
design, which requires a
cautious sequence of
steps. Also, an
automation suite features
auto-level, auto angle and
auto-drill to rapidly collar
the hole.”
During drilling, the rate
in and out of the hole is
quicker, with the
pulldown and hoist
equally powered for
maximum speed. Angle
drilling capability comes
standard on the
MD6420C.
The MD6420C takes
advantage of advanced
controls, monitoring and
technology to deliver
consistency and high productivity. “The state-of-
the-art Drill Control System features a highly
flexible architecture and versatile communication
protocol that allow it to integrate with many
different technologies. From an operational
standpoint, the system provides a clear, modern,
user-friendly interface; exceptional health and
diagnostic capabilities; and a number of standard
advanced safety and operator assist features.
Communication is configurable for remote and
autonomous commands.”
The MD6420C is autonomy ready and
optionally equipped to leverage the safety and
productivity benefits of Cat MineStar™ Terrain.
“This high-precision drill management system
optimises utilisation and improves drilling and
blasting operation by accurately guiding the
operator and improving precision of hole
placement and drilling depth, reporting drill and
operator productivity and providing feedback on
the variation of bench geology, and allowing
remote, real-time monitoring of drilling activity
and blast planning. These advanced control and
management tools deliver significant benefits
today and serve as the building blocks to
autonomous drilling.”
Cat adds that the MD6420C cuts service time
in half compared to competitive models, thanks
to state-of-the-art, in-cab troubleshooting and
diagnostics as well as a number of design
features that keep maintenance simple. “These
features include a logical layout and unsurpassed
service access, conveniently located hydraulic
pressure test points, closed circuit camera
system, and a stationary rear deck that allows
simple access to the mast area and main deck
during all drilling modes, including angle drilling.”
Structural integrity continues to be the
hallmark of the Cat MD6420 platform because
the durable mainframe and A-frame provide the
strong foundation required for full utilisation of
the pulldown power. The heavy-duty frame is
sculpted, heavily cross-braced and reaches 108
mm deep in the high-load area. It has a tubular,
box-section design that far exceeds the life
expectancy of a slimmer I-beam design. While
other drill manufacturers use a bolt-on system,
Caterpillar integrally welds all critical components
to the mainframe, including the four leveling-jack
casings, the mast pivot and the deck.
The Cat excavator undercarriage has a three-
point oscillating suspension and greased and
lubricated tracks, allowing the MD6420C to
negotiate rugged terrain without transferring
excessive torsional forces to the mainframe. Mast
structures are designed with double-cut lacing in
high stress areas and are built for the life of the
machine.
Alexander Parshkov, the Vice-President of
Russian diamond mining giant ALROSA Group,
and responsible for procurement activities,
recently visited Russia’s leading blasthole drill
manufacturer, RUDGORMASH Company in
February 2016. The main purpose of the visit was
to tour the production facilities of the plant.
ALROSA Company and PJSC MMHC Rudgormash-
Voronezh had previously signed a contract for the
supply of two drilling rigs of model SBSH-
250MNA-32 for diamond mines in Yakutia. One of
the mentioned drilling rigs is a serial model; but
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International Mining | APRIL 2016
The MD6420C takes advantage of advancedcontrols, monitoring and technology to deliverconsistency and high productivity
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the other is of a modified design, equipped with
two separators. The main purpose of Pashkov’s
visit was “an observation of production facilities
of the plant, discussion of particular supply terms
of the drills and aspects of further cooperation.”
Atlas Copco’s ongoing automationjourneyAtlas Copco’s RCS (Rig Control System), first
developed and launched in the 1990s, continues
to deliver generational advancements in mining
by enabling automation. Nine years after the Pit
Viper fleet’s incorporation of RCS, over 600 RCS
powered Pit Vipers have entered production
around the world. Tyler Berens, Product Line
Manager, Automation told IM: “We are seeing our
customers place increased confidence and reliance
on our Pit Viper automation, tackling the safety,
productivity and efficiency strategic and tactical
goals sent our way. A solid and clear advancement
path continues today for the automation program.
Being one of the first stakeholders in this
production process we call mining, we put a lot of
pressure on ourselves to deliver an effective
product. The other stakeholders in the value chain
are counting on us to get it right. The automation
development team works extensively in lab and
field environments to ensure qualitative results
align with quantitative measures to prove the
reliability and speed of new features.” Development
of Remote and Autonomous products are two of the
most recent updates to the automation program.
While controlling Pit Vipers remotely is not
new, the product has received continued updates
to match the opportunities and challenges sent
its way. Whether for safety, productivity or
efficiency needs, teleremote is one solution with
multiple capabilities. Remotely operated Pit
Vipers have been put to use on every continent
except Antarctica. Most recently it was employed
in a North American iron ore mine, where coupled
with operator assist functions, the remote
operators cut the mine’s non-drilling portion of
the cycle time by over 50% and hole accuracy
was 0.4 m closer to planned. This resulted in not
just four additional holes per shift but a much
higher quality product delivering a clear ROI.
The teleremote system allows the operator to
perform any drill function remotely, to include
auto functions (operator assist and autonomous).
The system is scalable for an operator to control
one up to many drills. “The distance between
operator and drill is often a talking point. The
system has run in both Line of Site (LOS)
conditions and connected to a customer’s
network, allowing the remote operator to control
the drill from over 1,300 km away. This
standardised hardware and software platform is
adaptable to the two environments it is employed
in – Mobile and Office.”
The Operations Centre (OC) provides a turnkey
mobile teleremote platform for an operator to
control one to many Pit Vipers, from the 235 up
through the 351. “The OC is perfect for mines
who may not have the WLAN infrastructure in
place to run remotely from the office or have
regular safety constraints in their drilling areas.
Supervising the fleet comfortably in an HVAC
equipped FOPS rated cab, the operator can make
many gains running remotely in this mobile
platform.”
The Office Kit provides a scalable system for
the mine to design or integrate into their control
room, whether that is onsite or offsite. At the
core is a half rack containing all of the hardware
and scalable for utilising multiple operator
stations and controlling multiple Pit Vipers. The
operator station utilises a smaller footprint than
the seat based controls but has all functions in
the same area for ease of transition for the
operator.
An important element with higher levels of
automation is integration into current processes
and recognising where modifications can be
made, ie how will users operate the systems in
their workflows. The Pit Viper Automation
products deliver a software suite to support and
guide the user throughout the planning,
operations and follow up reporting process. This
suite supports existing processes where needed
and has taken additional steps to institute lean
initiatives where able.
Fully autonomous blasthole drilling has been
the subject of many trials around the world, as
well as presented papers showcasing
opportunities at conferences and ROI models for
mining companies. Berens told IM: The talk and
preparation is over, the autonomous Pit Viper is
real and has been running in sustained 24/7
operations over the last few years. Now
producing tangible results, the product is the
result of continuous operational trials where the
autonomous Pit Viper was stacked up against a
rigorous set of KPIs to ensure its productivity,
safety and efficiency. A fleet of three autonomous
Pit Vipers 271s have been operating at an
Australian mine where they are responsible for
the majority of production drilling. More
productive shifts, accurate drilling, and predictable
results are allowing this miner to realise and
report solid sustainable benefits. Building off a
sustainable platform, work is continuing to extend
this product across the Pit Viper fleet, orchestrated
with interested customers.”
Looking ahead Berens concludes: “We see that
automation in the drilling process makes sense
for the mining operation and our vision is to
provide the best and most reliable systems to
make this a reality. We are continuing our high
paced development program to bring to life
innovative products targeting upgraded systems
and new solutions delivering lean effective
results. Some of these are already out in our test
partner’s mine’s working through the demanding
trials you would expect. Look for these exciting
innovative automation products to be showcased
at MINExpo 2016.”
Fifth generation of FLANDERS ARDVARCThe definition of automated drilling varies from
system provider to system provider but
FLANDERS considers it to be defined as the
ability to remove the operator from the cab and
perform the majority of drilling functions – no
Fully autonomous Atlas Copco Pit Viperoperating in an iron ore mine
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http://www.joyglobal.com/services/machine-assembly-and-rebuilds/machine-rebuilds/drifter-conversion-programs
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International Mining | APRIL 2015
less than the ability to drill 99.5% of all holes
without human interaction with the machine. The
FLANDERS automated drill system, ARDVARC®,
was developed more than 10 years ago and has
drilled well over a million holes to date. The
recently launched Version 5.0 is the 5th
generation of the software, built from the ground
up. This version includes enhancements of auto
drill functionality and increased real-time drill
operator feedback, reducing downtime as a
result. The advantage of ARDVARC is also that it
is OEM agnostic and so can be installed on a
fleet of drills made up of various OEM machines.
This provides a consistent operator interface
across all makes and models, even older models.
Mixed drill fleets are actually very common in
large mines, as mines change hands and as new
models are trialled and older ones maintained.
Jim Elkins, Global Business Development
Manager, Mining Automation Flanders told IM:
“ARDVARC can be retrofitted on any drill make or
model. It requires a wireless Ethernet network
but can utilise a variety of existing machine
network protocols, or FLANDERS can wire and
sensor a machine if required.” The hardware
includes HMI touch screen, replacement operator
chair with controls (joystick, buttons, etc), PLC,
remote I/O blocks, sensors, and GPS. The
ARDVARC Command Centre communicates via
Ethernet, therefore there is no distance
limitation. The ARDVARC Command Centre can be
installed on a mobile vehicle, or most commonly,
in the mine’s facility.
In terms of integration with wider mine
planning systems, he adds: “ARDVARC, like other
drill data collection systems, has long supported
efforts to measure and correlate ‘actual’ drilled
data verses ‘planned.’ ARDVARC was one of the
first systems in mining to provide high quality
MWD (Measured While Drilling) or down-the-hole
data for both direct and cross systems utilisation.
The open architectural model used in FLANDERS
systems has allowed for direct integration into
the various fleet automation systems, fleet
optimisation systems, blast planning systems,
and fleet machine health systems. As the use of
continuous fragmentation measurement systems
grows, the FLANDERS data, such as Drill Energy
Index, also continues to serve as a foundation for
fragmentation optimisation efforts.”
Elkins said of the market for these systems
that despite the downturn, in the last two years,
it has sold more Fully Autonomous ARDVARC
systems than One-Touch ARDVARC systems.
“This trend has reversed from years prior in that
we are seeing more Fully Autonomous systems
sold than lesser automated options.” The
company confirmed that is has Fully Autonomous
fleets in operation rather than just single
machines. Elkins added that customers have
been seeing payback periods of between one and
three years with the majority of the mines that
have purchased one system going on to buy
multiple systems.
The motivation to switch to full drill
automation is a mix of safety and productivity.
Some locations with dangerous geological
conditions want to remove personnel from the
environment as a way to protect their employees.
Other mine operations are looking for increased
and predictable production.
The installation of a FLANDERS ARDVARC
automatic drilling system on a fleet of drills at
Freeport McMoRan’s Dos Pobres copper
operation near Safford provides GPS navigation
to each hole through the operator, auto-levelling
and auto-drilling from collaring the hole to
finishing the hole and machine monitoring and
fault notification. The system also produces a
quantitative Drill Energy Index value. This value is
determined from an algorithm accounting for
rotary torque and speed as well as hoist down
force and speed which is then averaged over the
amount of time it takes to drill 0.3 m, scaled for
typical drilling conditions and displayed onboard
the drill as well as stored in a database. The main
factors considered in drill pattern design are rock
hardness, water table information, ground
conditions and dominant structural direction.
Once the hardness zones are developed for an
existing bench, they are forecasted down to
predict rock hardness on new benches. This
forecasting allows for patterns to be planned
with the correct burden and spacing for the type
of material expected. Once a pattern is drilled,
the Drill Energy Index numbers for that pattern
can be compared and reconciled with the
forecasted hardness shapes.
For example, if the Drill Energy Index numbers
show that a pattern is softer than the hardness
shapes indicated, air decks and/or lower
explosive energies can be used to assure that the
holes are not overloaded in the softer material.
This guarantees that the correct kilo calories
(joules) are loaded into each hole. These
consistent blasting practices have resulted in
better control and consistency in fragmentation.
This is evident from the crusher performance,
crusher screen data and from shovel camera
image analysis data.
Joy Global P&H drill automation focusThrough existing product updates and new
product development, Joy Global says it is also
focusing on automation for its P&H blasthole drill
line. The company currently offers three different
P&H machines: the 250XPC, which offers up to
90,000 lbs of bit loading; the 285XPC which
offers up to 118,000 lbs; and the 320XPC, which
offers up to 150,000 lbs. These drills’ powerful
rotary carriages “are able to provide ample
torque and bit loading through the toughest rock
conditions.”
To help its drilling customers get even more
out of their machines, Joy Global says it is
working on three add-ons that will bring
increased automation to the line. It is currently
testing a new tele-remote system that offers
single-unit remote control operations, high
precision GPS navigation and validation; and drill
production monitoring. The line of sight remote
operator interface can be controlled up to one
mile away and the high precision GPS provides
less than 10 cm hole location deviation.
The company is also working on auto hole-to-
hole navigation that will allow for obstacle
detection and avoidance, autonomous navigation,
automated rod and bit changing, and automated
propulsion. The new product is designed to detect
and adjust excessive bit air pressure, vibration
and rotary torque, amongst other things.
An additional focus on semi-autonomous drill
function is the provision of multi-drill remote
operation and non-line-of-sight operation. These
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Inside a FLANDERS ARDVARC autonomousdrilling command centre
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developments are aimed at improving safety by
helping remove people from harm’s way, as well
as increasing machine utilisation.
Matt Collins, Joy Global’s Product Manager for
drills, said the company’s push for increased
automation is to deliver added value for
customers in key areas including safety and
production. “Our automation work will help
customers mitigate operating risks, such as
potentially unstable ground conditions, in addition
to providing repeatable operational consistency
and an opportunity to increase machine utilisation.
We want our drill customers to be able to do more
with less, while protecting their assets.”
Enhanced automation can result in incremental
production footage gains by reducing any
potential overdrilling, for example, and allowing
for more holes drilled per shift through increased
machine utilisation.
Next up for the company’s drill line is a new
machine, designed for the 75,000 lb max bit load
class. This machine will come in diesel and
electric options and maintain the reliability that
P&H is known for, while offering even greater
flexibility in operation.
Brian Fox, Vice President of Product Management
for Joy Global surface mining, said, “With this new
machine and the recent developments in
automation, we aim to offer mining customers
another choice in blasthole drills. We have the
opportunity to leverage our global direct service
network to ensure that our evolving product line
and technology yield the reliable, low-cost
operation that P&H shovels are known for.”
Drill tool developmentsFast and accurate grade control is the key to an
effective mineral extraction process and
ultimately to mining productivity and
profitability. That’s why Atlas Copco Secoroc
says it has opted to extend its RC hammer range
with the COP RC45 – which it claims is “the
smallest, lightest and fastest reverse circulation
hammer ever.”
The 120 mm (4.5 in) COP RC45 reverse
circulation hammer features a revolutionary new
design. “Since it is 40% shorter than the nearest
competitor and more than 30% lighter than most
hammers doing the same job, one man can easily
handle the hammer by himself.” The COP RC45
hammer also works with an extremely high impact
frequency – up to 52 Hz at 30 bar. This is possible
thanks to a unique air chamber design. Much
smaller air chambers build up pressure faster and
make the piston strike at a much faster rate. The
marginally lower impact force is more than
compensated for by the much higher impact
frequency. Tests have shows excellent penetration
rates in all types of rock – also in difficult rock
formations.
Like the RC50, the COP RC45 hammer
features Atlas Copco Secoroc’s unique tube
retention system. This design allows fast and
easy service, and tubes are quickly replaced
without disassembling the hammer. The
company says this means less time servicing
the hammer, and more time producing samples.
Atlas Copco Secoroc says it has all the
technical features to help users reach their
sampling goals but while handling a much
lighter weight. IM
SURFACE DRILLING AND LOADING
To help its drilling customers get even more outof their machines, Joy Global says it is workingon three add-ons that will bring increasedautomation to the line
Office-based Atlas Copco Pit Viper drillautomation centre
APRIL 2016 | International Mining
http://www.joyglobal.com/services/machine-assembly-and-rebuilds/machine-rebuilds/drifter-conversion-programs
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