Repeated dipper-to-track strikes can reduce crawler shoe life and cause structural cracking and dipper damage, resulting in unplanned downtime and increased repair costs. Track Shield 2 is a new suite of control functions from Komatsu Mining that helps the operator decrease the number or severity of impacts between the dipper and the tracks or other parts of the shovel.

This solution calculates the position of the dipper and modifies controls to mitigate collisions. Komatsu says that Track Shield 2 is ideal for a variety of mining operations and applications including but not limited to oil sands with wide path tracks; TRC dippers; wider dippers (76 cubic yards or greater); plus configurations where it is difficult to see potential strikes.

Komatsu states: “Track Shield 2 has been engineered to substantially reduce the number or severity of costly collisions with the dipper on your valuable shovel asset. It’s a sophisticated technology upgrade that can help reduce maintenance costs and increase machine longevity from fewer incidents of damage or fatigue to the shoes, front idler, dipper components, cable reel and other components.”

It adds: “We’ve worked with our valued customers to design a solution that minimises the impact on operator motions during tuck to maintain shovel productivity. Field tests have shown statistically no reduction in productivity while Track Shield 2 is in operation when properly tuned. It can also assist operators by guiding them to where they need to be with respect to the shovel’s structure and digging face while reinforcing best digging practices.”

Tuning is an initial process that configures Track Shield 2 based on operational priorities and objectives. “We’ll work with you to pinpoint your optimal approach that aligns with your unique operation. For instance, Track Shield 2 can be custom tuned to focus on mitigating risk – avoid almost all collisions. Or it can be performance-configured – optimise productivity while reducing damage. It’s your choice. Komatsu service personnel provide one-time tuning in close collaboration with your mining operations and fleet maintenance teams.”