Rio Tinto confirmed in early June that its U.S. Borax operation in Boron, California became the world’s first open-pit mine to complete a full transition of its heavy machinery from fossil fuel to renewable diesel. To put the scope of the milestone in perspective, the global miner said the change brings an anticipated CO2 equivalent reduction of up to 45,000…
Read MoreDay: September 15, 2023
Epiroc launches ‘Deep Automation’ for underground material handling
Deep Automation is Epiroc’s cutting-edge set of automation systems and applications used to orchestrate loaders and trucks in underground mining operations. Developed with interoperability in mind, customers can take control of safety zones, production assignments and autonomous traffic in real time – boosting safety, consistency and productivity. Epiroc has a long history of developing and implementing automation solutions in mines…
Read MoreVirginia Tech researchers use autonomous technologies
to make mines safer
How do you use drones and robots to make underground mining less risky for workers? Virginia Tech researcher Richard Bishop and his West Virginia University collaborators are working to answer this question. A recent two-year, $569,149 Alpha Foundation grant will allow the team to study ways to use autonomous drones to predict and prevent roof collapses underground. It’s urgent work.…
Read MoreFlanders, MES ink dual fuel collaboration
With a mutual eye on decarbonization, Flanders and MES have signed a memorandum of understanding to team on deploying dual-fuel technology for mining trucks. The pair said earlier this month that the agreement will serve as a platform to advance aftermarket dual fuel technology consisting of natural gas and diesel for diesel engine haul trucks to reduce carbon emissions from…
Read MoreEpiroc, SSAB to explore sustainable options for manufacturing spare parts
Earlier this year, Epiroc and SSAB announced a further expansion of their partnership to secure fossil-free steel for use in the production of Epiroc’s mining equipment. Since then, the two companies have expanded their collaboration into also exploring the possibilities to use fossil-free steel when manufacturing spare parts and components with additive technology. The initial step in the process has…
Read MoreProductivity, efficiency, durability core to new Cat D10 dozer
Infused with industry-leading technology, the durable Cat D10 Dozer burns less fuel, increases productivity and improves uptime. Featuring a stator clutch torque converter and load-sensing hydraulics, the new design is up to 6% more efficient than the Cat D10T2. Its combination of improved technology, longer component life, extended oil changes and increased serviceability reduces maintenance and repair costs up to…
Read MoreLiebherr R 9300 now available for purchase
Following its official introduction at bauma 2022 in Germany, in June Liebherr opened for purchase its R 9300 mining excavator. The latest addition to its excavator portfolio – the R 9300 Generation 8 (G8) – will take over from the R 9250 in the 250-tonne class. The R 9300 is the second G8 excavator in Liebherr’s product range and as…
Read MorePhilippi-Hagenbuch spotlights load ejector system
Designed for improved haul truck efficiency, the new Philippi-Hagenbuch Load Ejector System is now available to help sites virtually eliminate material carryback, effectively increase load capacity and improve operational efficiency. It allows operations to haul the full rated capacity with each load and reduce downtime associated with removing carryback from the truck. Load ejectors are professionally engineered to fit the…
Read MoreVolvo refreshes service contract offerings
Volvo Construction Equipment recently launched a refreshed portfolio of Volvo Service contracts, which will now have three levels. The range has been rebranded from its existing and widely known Customer Services Agreement, which it noted will continue helping customers to manage the repair and maintenance requirements of their Volvo machinery. The new gold, silver and blue contracts are built on…
Read MoreKomatsu updates 980E-5SE electric mining truck
The economics of surface mining require the highest production at the lowest lifetime cost per ton (CPT). By combining outstanding build quality with multiple features designed to improve fuel efficiency and reduce downtime, the 4,400-hp Komatsu 980E-5SE electric drive mining truck offers increased speed on grade in deep pit applications. The truck’s redesigned ergonomic automotive-style cab works to increase operator…
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