Sandvik Mining new generation of underground hard-rock mining trucks are currently undergoing field evaluation following their launch at MINEXPO last year. The new generation trucks, TH551 and TH663,  51 tonne and 63 tonne capacity respectively incorporate and on-board jacking system which allows for faster and safer tyre changing in the event of a flat tyre on a haulage ramp or other confined space.

The new trucks have the highest haulage capacity in their class and ‘envelope size’ and also allow for higher ramp speed. The trucks also have more than 60 safety features, designed to protect the operator, maintenance crews and the trucks themselves. The TH663 has been specifically matched to Sandvik Mining’s LH621 underground loader, while the TH551 is matched to the LH517 loader. Matched to these loaders, they both offer fast three-bucket loading cycles, increasing load-and-haul cycle efficiency.

Mark Ryan, Sandvik Mining’s Product Managerm – Trucks said “These trucks offer higher annual productivity rates and lower costs per tonne. Their larger capacities and higher speeds, combined with increased uptime, maximises productivity. While the TH551 comes standard with a Volvo TAD1642VE-B rated at 515kW, it is also available with low emission Tier 4i-technology Volvo TAD1662VE, also rated at 515kW, as an option.”

“In addition to significantly reducing the costs caused by underground ventilation, this environmentally friendly engine option will markedly improve underground working conditions as well, while also combining outstanding torque characteristics with low fuel consumption” Ryan continued.

Felix Gaul, of Wolfram Bergbau un Hütten AG commented on the TH551 that has been trialled at Mittersell, near Salzburg, Austria “All our heavy machines have to be equipped with diesel particulate filters for underground operations. With the Tier 4i engine of the truck, this is not necessary any more, resulting in savings of about €100,000 over the lifetime of the machine.”