Sandvik is set to launch the first stage five compliant underground loaders for hard rock mining applications after more than 10,000 hours of load haul dumping (LHD) underground testing.
The loader, which Sandvik collaborated with Volvo Penta to manufacture, reduces particles in the diesel exhaust, which will help improve underground air quality.
Sandvik has leveraged Volvo’s knowledge of automotive to boast impressive improvements in the stage five loader, including its ability to operate with up to three per cent reduced fuel consumption compared with the lower stages.
The stage five loader also meets customer expectations, equipment performance requirements and the most current and stringent regulations to build machinery that is reliable in the harshest environments, according to Sandvik.
“A key enabler for the equipment availability is passive regeneration of the diesel particulate filter,” Sandvik stated.
“The soot accumulated in the filter is burned off during equipment normal operation, without the need for frequent standstill regeneration.”
Another feature of the stage five loader is the modulating engine break, which enables an operator to adjust breaking power.
This allows for better control of downhill speed and minimises the risk of overheating and brake wear.
The engine also features high altitude operating capability, up to 3500 metres above sea level and lower noise levels compared with previous stages, making the loader both practical and comfortable.
Having been tested extensively on European mine sites, Sandvik will be offering the LH517i and LH621i models of the stage five compliant loaders and trucks from early 2020.
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