Posted by Paul Moore on twenty fourth September 2024
Komatsu Ltd is showcasing its newest underground onerous rock mining tools at MINExpo 2024 this week in Las Vegas. Specifically, Komatsu is strengthening its underground onerous rock mining tools enterprise by means of an enhanced lineup, the event of latest mining strategies, and strategic acquisitions, and can showcase its newest initiatives.
First off, Komatsu says it’s excited to introduce its first battery-electric powered LHD machine, the WX04B, together with a 150 kW battery charger engineered particularly for underground onerous rock mining. Designed for slim vein mines, this 4-t LHD options industry-leading battery expertise with best-in-class power density, providing as much as 4 hours of run time on a single cost.
And one of many standout options of the WX04B is its modern battery swap system. In contrast to many conventional techniques that require in depth underground infrastructure, the WX04B’s battery swap may be carried out at floor degree with out further tools or dangers of rigging overhead hundreds. This streamlined course of reduces prices and complexity, making it a extra environment friendly and user-friendly possibility for underground mining operations.
Moreover, key options of the 150 kW battery charger embrace energy effectivity, broad compatibility with mining energy sources (400 VAC to 1,000 VAC) and no want for an exterior transformer. This design minimises infrastructure necessities, providing mining operations better flexibility with out the necessity for a devoted charging station.
Komatsu will even showcase for the primary time two machines from GHH Group GmbH, the German producer of underground mining, tunnelling and civil engineering tools acquired on July 1 of this 12 months, beneath the Komatsu model. The WX15 is a 15 t class LHD with a most bucket capability of 9 m³ and the HX45 is a mining truck with 45 t capability—new additions to Komatsu’s lineup with these particular automobile sizes. Each machines are designed to work in tandem, providing productive three-pass loading cycles for max effectivity in mining operations.
Komatsu is additional excited to introduce its first medium-size class drill jumbo ZJ32 and bolter ZB31 to its lineup, additional broadening Komatsu’s choice of choices for the underground mining {industry}. The Z3 machines are constructed on a common platform and designed with a give attention to modularity and effectivity. This focus gives improved productiveness that may assist cut back service and upkeep prices throughout operations. The Z3 additionally boasts common operator controls, simplifying person adoption and rising coaching effectivity. Within the close to future, further battery and clever machine management fashions of the Z3 sequence shall be added to the lineup to offer clients with a complete vary of choices to fulfill their calls for.
