At MINExpo 2012 in Las Vegas from 24-26 September, Caterpillar states that it will reveal “a number of innovative mining systems and machines” including what is described as “an unprecedented, efficient means to step up production loading of ultra class haulers.” The company says the new loading tool makes the best use of size and energy storage technology. Possibilities include an electric and/or backhoe configuration version of the former O&K RH400 or finally a completed and updated version of the Bucyrus 795 rope shovel for which an older design has been around for years but never actually built.
In addition to new products, Caterpillar builds on proven ones to make the next generation of mining machines, technology and support equipment. For example, the new AD60 underground truck, with 60 t capacity, and the new R3000H underground loader, with 20 t payload capability, represent the largest such machines Caterpillar has made to date. For underground coal and soft rock miners, the next generation EL3000 longwall shearer features a state-of-the-art communication system for advanced automation and monitoring. The longwall system includes personnel proximity detection and underground cameras that can be linked to a surface monitoring centre.
A Caterpillar engine now powers the MD6240 rotary blasthole drill that will be at the show. Attendees will also see the latest edition of the workhorse 777 truck, the 777G, which meets North American Tier 4 emission standards. The 777G also has adjustable fuel saving strategies, performance improvements and enhanced safety features for sustainable, low cost production. The next generation D11T track-type tractor also features Tier 4 emissions compliance as well as the Enhanced Auto Shift system, designed to conserve fuel by automatically selecting the optimal reverse gear and engine speed, based on load and desired ground speed. The new 777G WTR is one of the specialized Off-Highway Truck chassis that the group offers in a configuration designed specifically for water truck applications. OEM Solutions also will offer information about the new Cat water delivery/control system that is being field tested now and will be available on the 777G WTR.
The three largest trucks in the Cat line; the 797F, 795F AC and 793F will share space with loading tools, the 994H Extended High Lift designed to efficiently load 250 short ton size class trucks and the 6030B FS hydraulic face shovel representing the extensive line of shovels. The 6030B is the first of the Cat B Series hydraulic shovels and features a state-of-the-art new cab and operator environment with productivity enhancing on-board electronics.