Sandvik is introducing a new 3-t narrow-vein LHD that, it says, “offers reliability, productivity and increased safety that has not previously been seen in its size class globally.” The new Sandvik LH202 loader is targeted for narrow-vein mining applications with drift widths between 2 and 2.5 m. It has been designed to help reduce dilution and improve flexibility and operator safety when working in narrow-vein operations.
The LH202 is full of features to help mines maximize tonnes and minimize extraction costs. It has been engineered to optimize machine width, length and turning radius. Sandvik says the “LH202 can reduce cost per tonne by up to 36% thanks to its reduced operating width and larger capacity compared to other loaders in the same size class.”
“Due to its compact size and advanced transmission, Sandvik LH202 is both easy to drive and manoeuvre in confined spaces typical of narrow-vein tunnels”, says Kimmo Ulvelin, Product Line Manager, Narrow Vein & Low Profile loaders at Sandvik Mining and Rock Technology.
Ashleigh Braddock, Global Sales and Marketing Support Manager, Product Area Load and Haul at Sandvik Mining and Rock Technology, says an operator compartment located in the loader’s rear frame helps improve operator safety and comfort.
“With this safety design, we have moved the operator further away from falling rocks during bucket loading,” Braddock says. “Improved visibility and powerful LED lights help reduce collision risk while ground-level daily maintenance reduces risk of slips, trips and falls. Enhanced ergonomics in the operator compartment keeps the operator more comfortable during the shift, enabling to focus on production”.
With sustainable operation in mind, and to enable the use of this LHD in markets with low engine emission requirements, the new loader will be available with either a standard Tier 2 engine or a lower-emission Tier 4 engine in the future.
The new LH202 completes a comprehensive offering of Sandvik loaders engineered for narrow-vein operations. These range from the LH201, the smallest loader with a payload of 1 t and capable of operating in drifts as narrow as 1.5 m, up to the Sandvik LH307, with a tramming capacity of 6.7 t in drifts that are greater than 3 m wide.