Tag Archives: Volvo Penta

Volvo Penta to work with OEMs, operators, fleet managers on advanced vehicle control systems

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Volvo Penta has set its sights on offering the off-highway segment further productivity advancements through the delivery of advanced vehicle control systems co-developed with OEMs, operators and fleet managers.

As a start, Volvo Penta plans to engage in open conversations among its customer connections to uncover opportunities. It will work hand in hand with CPAC Systems, its subsidiary company – a provider of vehicle electronics and productivity solutions – to transform these ideas into actionable initiatives.

Volvo Penta says its established success lies in assisting customers in optimising their power solutions for efficiency, performance and profitability, while fostering a more sustainable society. It is now elevating this mission by aiming to offer advanced vehicle control systems – a robust foundation on which flexible, up-to-date, and cohesive features and interfaces can co-exist and scale seamlessly.

The goal is to unlock a realm of possibilities for OEMs spanning integrated powertrain connectivity, vehicle management, automation, fleet or site productivity enhancements and more, it says.

“We are embarking on a journey to offer OEMs a sophisticated and high-performing system on which future solutions can be collaboratively built to fill any voids in their existing systems,” Hannes Norrgren, President Volvo Penta Industrial, said. “We want to explore impactful solutions, even in unexplored areas, to support OEMs, operators and fleet owners in a meaningful way.”

While technological solutions like vehicle controls, automation and advanced analytics are readily available, creating value requires a blend of technology and domain expertise, according to Volvo Penta. This entails reimagining processes and building new capabilities, and strategic foresight in close collaboration with operators, fleet managers, OEMs and technology players, it added.

Hannes said: “Volvo Penta’s approach is not characterised by ready-made solutions but rather revolves around collaborative partnerships and meaningful dialogues, allowing us to co-develop bespoke, value-added solutions in tandem with our clients.”

Johannes Hauptmann, CEO CPAC Systems, said: “Our experience and product portfolio are valuable building blocks that can be applied in various contexts. This creates excellent avenues for cost-effective development of new solutions for the off-highway segment with short time-to-market.”

CPAC Systems’ flexible technology platform with high computing power will be the conduit for which Volvo Penta’s industrial productivity solutions can be built and optimised for off-highway needs. Volvo Penta and CPAC Systems will co-engineer solutions with the former’s customers to bring these solutions to OEMs and the market with greater speed.

Normet launches new ElectroDynamic platform for higher payloads and compact dimensions

Mining equipment, Mining services, Sustainable mining, , , , , , , , , , , , ,

Normet has expanded its product offering, introducing both the XL platform and its latest technology innovation, the Normet ElectroDynamic® powertrain architecture, at the AusIMM Underground Operators Conference 2023 (UGOPS), in Brisbane, Australia, complementing its new high-capacity platform and paving the way to what it says is the future of more sustainable underground operations.

By combining the best features of its battery-electric Normet SmartDrive® platform and state-of-the-art low-emission engine technology, the Normet ElectroDynamic architecture allows for increased payload capacity with compact outer dimensions, while also ensuring superior driving dynamics, high performance, superb fuel efficiency and less need for maintenance, the company said.

A key element of the ElectroDynamic technology is the removal of the drive shaft and gearbox through driving the externally-cooled mining axles with permanent magnet motors in a highly efficient direct-drive configuration. This not only renders a low and compact load end design, instant torque and economical electric retardation possible, but also significantly increases component lifetime, according to Normet.

Samu Kukkonen, Technology Director at Normet, said: “As we were developing our battery-electric SmartDrive equipment, we quickly realised that we can actually remove the drive shaft and gearbox from engine-powered equipment as well. This is monumental, because now we can utilise the space where the drive shaft used to be for increased payload capacity. This was achieved by utilising electric motors at the axles, powered by a low emission engine-generator set.

“What is more, we have years of experience with all the components used in the architecture not only from our SmartDrive equipment, but also from our engine powered equipment.”

The Normet ElectroDynamic architecture also enables one-pedal driving, where the vehicle automatically controls both acceleration and deceleration with the operator’s accelerator pedal input. Additionally, its advanced front axle suspension system and the new Normet 180° cabin with improved ergonomics and visibility, Normet says, set new industry standards for operator safety and comfort.

The completely new Utimec XL ED carrier, designed for heavy-duty underground transportation applications with its payload capacity of 24 t, is included in this new XL ED offering.

Built with some of the highest-quality powertrain components and robust frame structures, all XL ED units are powered with direct-drive electric motors, Volvo Penta Stage V engines, enabling clean and efficient operation, the company says.

The first applications of the technology are the Utimec XL 1100 Agitator ED, with a practical concrete transportation capacity of 10.5 cu.m, designed for concrete transportation in underground mines and tunnels with a minimum tramming height of 3.3 m.

Tailor-made for harsh underground conditions, the vehicle is equipped with a voluminous, wear-resistant and remote-controllable concrete drum and a hydraulically-operated discharging chute, allowing for more versatile vehicle positioning. Both mixing and unloading are controlled electrically and can be operated with zero local emissions by plugging the machine into the mine’s power grid. This increases operator comfort by significantly reducing heat output and noise and by eliminating underground emissions.

The XL 1100 Agitator ED comes with a spectrum of useful features such as both front and rear support legs to ensure maximum operating stability, a form oil system to prevent concrete from adhering to the vehicle’s surfaces and a high-pressure washer with a 500-litre on-board water tank.

By eliminating the need for a drive shaft, Normet ElectroDynamic architecture allows for a high carrying capacity with compact outer dimensions, the company says

Concrete agitators are especially popular in Australia, where customers are constantly looking for innovative solutions and technologies to improve their productivity, according to Normet. However, the combination of long driving distances and high demands for vehicles’ carrying capacities has until now, posed a problem. Larger machines reduce underground traffic and make daily operation more efficient, but the size and tramming height of tunnels naturally set maximum limits for those of underground equipment, too.

Allowing for both high-capacity transportation applications and compact outer dimensions, the new XL ED offering is the ideal, purpose-built solution to this dilemma, according to Normet.

Last year, Redpath Australia representatives visited Normet’s factory in Iisalmi, Finland, to see and feel the XL ED prototype. As one of the world leaders in safety and innovations in mining practices, the company was impressed by the value the XL 1100 could provide, and Redpath has now ordered several XL 1100 Agitator EDs for its operations, set to be delivered this year.

Normet said: “We are immensely proud of the new Normet ElectroDynamic technology and the XL offering, both reflecting our passion for continuously developing innovative solutions and technologies to meet and exceed customer and industry expectations for safety, productivity and sustainability. Designed and built to minimise its environmental impact as a key driver, Normet’s broad equipment offering pioneers the transformation into greener underground operations.”

Sandvik cuts emissions and fuel consumption with upgraded EU Stage V Toro TH430

Environmental, Mining equipment, Mining services, Mining software, Sustainable mining, , , , , ,

Sandvik says it is upgrading its 30 t truck with the latest engine technology and adding TH430 to its Toro family.

This reliable, productive truck is now compliant with Stage V regulations, the most stringent emission regulations in the world. In addition to reducing emissions, the Stage V trucks can reduce fuel consumption by up to 3% compared with lower stage engines.

The Toro™ TH430 is a reliable, hard-working dump truck specifically designed for underground conditions, Sandvik says. With its robust structure, compact size and fit-for-purpose components, the truck is tailored to meet productivity targets in challenging environments.

High engine peak torque and torque rise allow less downshifting and better acceleration, while low overall machine weight and high power enable high tramming speeds on a decline, shortening cycle times. The Dana transmission’s automatic gear shift and torque converter lock-up ensure fast speeds, meanwhile.

The Toro TH430 truck has two engine configuration options: Stage V and Tier II/EU Stage II, both from Volvo Penta. Stage II has an output of 310 kW and Stage V has an output of 315 kW, making the Toro TH430 truck the most powerful underground truck in its size class, according to Sandvik.

In both configurations, the engine coolers are easy to clean and maintain, thanks to the swing-out fans. Designed for high ambient temperatures, the V-tube radiator has replaceable aluminium tubes for fast and easy repair. To help mines meet their targets to reduce fossil fuel consumption and exhaust emissions, both engine configurations can use renewable paraffinic diesel fuels that meet the EN 15940 standard, the company says.

The newly introduced engine option, the 13-litre Stage V engine, provides reduced emissions through a diesel particulate filter (DPF). Additionally, Sandvik Stage V trucks can operate with up to 3% less fuel consumption compared with lower stages. The other engine alternative, Tier 2/EU Stage II, is equipped with a catalytic purifier and muffler: it has been calibrated for use in high altitude conditions to maintain performance, low emissions and reliability.

To ensure maximum use of the rated payload on every trip, the Toro TH430 dump truck can be equipped with Sandvik’s Integrated Weighing System (IWS) for trucks. The IWS supports productivity by offering accurate real-time payload data for load and haul equipment operators. Using the IWS ensures full utilisation of the truck’s payload capacity on every cycle. Furthermore, using a 90% fill factor in the box selection ensures the truck can be loaded to its full 30-t capacity and reduces spillage during tramming. The smooth box design improves material flow during dumping, the company added.

“Sustainability is a key factor in all Sandvik designs,” Pia Sundberg, Product Line Manager Trucks at Sandvik, said. “Bringing the Toro TH430 truck with Stage V engine to the market takes mining one step further in its sustainability journey. We have also made several other improvements to the truck to make it even more reliable and productive.”

Sandvik LH209L low-profile loader joins Toro family and receives Stage V engine treatment

Equipment maintenance, Mining equipment, Mining services, , , , , ,

The Sandvik 10-t-payload LH209L loader has become the first low-profile model to join the renowned Toro™ loader and truck family following an upgrade.

Designed to deliver in extremely demanding applications with limited heights, the Toro LH209L’s performance and serviceability have been further improved with, among other upgrades, a redesign and reinforcement of the machine rear, enabling it to better withstand ground and roof impacts that are typical in low-profile operations.

For improved serviceability, extremely flat covers contribute to easy access to the service and maintenance area on top of the loader. Other improvements to serviceability and reliability include new improved aluminium coolers, new transmission and several changes to the hydraulic system with its components.

From an equipment health monitoring and proactive maintenance perspective, the Toro LH209L is equipped with a new operator interface with 7-in (178 mm) display, providing access to the simple and purpose-designed control system. The interface offers basic information about the loader condition and warns the operator before failures occur, preventing severe damage or potential downtime.

The machine is powered by 185-kW, 8-liter engines from Volvo Penta, coming in both EU Stage V and Stage 3A compliant variants.

To reduce particle emissions, both engines are available with a diesel particulate filter (DPF). The Stage V engine comes with a DPF as standard, while the Stage 3A can be equipped with a DPF, if ultra-low-sulphur fuel is available at the operating site.

For further reduced exhaust emissions, both engines can also use paraffinic diesel fuel that meets the requirements of EN 15940, contributing to lower environmental impacts as well as reduced consumption of fossil fuel. The Stage V engine option also features selective catalytic reduction exhaust gas technology to reduce emissions of nitrogen oxides.

Sandvik upgrades Toro TH320, TH330 underground mining trucks

Equipment maintenance, Mining equipment, Mining services, , , , , ,

Sandvik has upgraded its Toro TH320 20-t and Toro TH330 (pictured) 30-t trucks to, it says, reduce customers’ costs of ownership and improve productivity.

With a hardy structure, compact size and fit-for-purpose components, the trucks are built to be robust and reliable and tailored to meet productivity targets in challenging underground environments, according to the company.

Both upgraded trucks come with a 235 kW Tier 3 Volvo Penta engine with catalytic purifier and muffler, delivering long engine lifetime in underground mining conditions. The 8 litre engine has a  high-tech injection system that contributes to an efficient combustion and low fuel consumption, Sandvik says. Furthermore, it is calibrated for use in high-altitude conditions without sacrificing performance or reliability.

The heavy-duty and efficient aluminium cooler has “outstanding” corrosion resistance and is easy to clean, helping to reduce total cost of ownership, Sandvik says. To minimise brake and transmission overheating and brake wear as well as to provide better control of downhill speed, the trucks can be equipped with an optional engine brake.

Sandvik has equipped the trucks with new heavy-duty axles using limited slip differential to maintain traction, which are expected to have an extended lifetime compared with the previous models.

“We have really worked to improve availability and reliability and reduce the time needed for servicing or maintenance,” Pia Sundberg, Product Line Manager, Trucks, at Sandvik Mining and Rock Solutions, says. “For fast ramp speeds when hauling ore, we have equipped these trucks with a new transmission with automatic gear shifting and torque converter lock-up.”

To increase uptime, Sandvik has also made upgrades to enable easy and fast maintenance. The trucks are designed for daily ground-level maintenance. When accessing the top of the equipment is required, the entirely new access system on the front of the truck provides a steady grip, including three-point contact high-contrast handles and anti-slip steps. The proven hydraulic system of the truck is simple and reliable, contributing to ease of maintenance and lower total cost of ownership.

Sandvik bolsters Toro LHD line up with LH515i

Automation, Mining equipment, Mining safety, Mining software, , , , , ,

Sandvik Mining and Rock Solutions says it is launching a new, higher-capacity 15-t size class loader as a next generation model for the current 14-t Sandvik LH514.

The 15-t Toro™ LH515i has one tonne greater capacity than its predecessor, yet it is designed to operate within the same footprint. This new member of the Toro family has been redesigned from the ground up, leveraging all of the benefits of its predecessor, while improving the design based on customer feedback, according to the company.

The new loader has been designed following the principles of intelligence and simplicity, Sandvik says. The Toro LH515i features a totally new Sandvik intelligent control system with 12-in touchscreen colour display, making loader health monitoring easy, providing quick access to data and enabling new solutions for efficient troubleshooting, the company says.

“With a multitude of smart technologies and optimised for use with Sandvik’s AutoMine® and OptiMine® systems, Toro LH515i brings digitalisation to the operator’s fingertips, enabling optimal productivity,” Sandvik says. “To ensure quick and efficient maintenance, the loader features easy access to service points, roomy component layout organised to facilitate servicing and excellent access to systems, both in the cabin and on top of the equipment.”

The loader features an entirely new cabin designed to provide an ergonomic working environment for operators during long shifts, including increased leg space, new seat and dashboard and improved visibility over the extremely flat rear frame of the loader.

The Toro LH515i is available with two different engine configurations from Volvo Penta: the 265 kW Stage V diesel engine, and the 256 kW Tier III engine.

Equipped with selective catalytic reduction exhaust gas technology and a new diesel particulate filter, the Stage V configuration meets very stringent emission regulations. To further help to reduce their greenhouse gas footprint, both versions of engines are fully compatible with paraffinic diesel fuels meeting the EN 15940 standard, Sandvik says.

The launch of the new loader is part of Sandvik celebrating the 50-year journey of Toro loaders and trucks.

New GHH 45 t capacity dump truck about to enter underground market

Equipment maintenance, Mining equipment, Mining maintenance, Mining services, , , , , , , ,

GHH has developed a new 42 t payload dump truck that, it says, offers maximum drive power, improved turning radius, steep dumping angle and excellent ergonomics and safety.

The German manufacturer of heavy machinery for civil engineering, tunnelling and mining, which has roots that go back to 1758, has three other underground dump trucks in its underground mining portfolio (in addition to two within its low profile dump truck offering and one within its flameproof portfolio) spanning 15-35 t payload applications. The new truck is the largest in its portfolio.

The new MK-42 offers an up to 45 t payload, 19-24 m³ dump body capacity, maximum drive power, a great turning radius, improved dumping angle and excellent ergonomics and safety, according to the company. It has a streamlined, innovative product design, which just received the Red Dot Design Award, GHH added.

The 460 kW Mercedes OM473 forms the engine base, fulfilling the latest EU Stage V emission standards. GHH also offers Tier 3 and 4 versions for less regulated markets, while an alternative Volvo Penta TAD1651 or 1671 engine option is available.

The vehicle rests on Kessler axles with oscillating articulation and front axle suspension, while the power is transmitted by a converter and gearbox combination from the Dana 8000 series.

Designed for use in harsh environments, especially in underground hard-rock mining applications, the MK-42’s dimensions are surprisingly compact at 3,062 x 10,535 x 2,719 mm (WxLxH). A steep dumping angle of 68° leads to high efficiency productivity and improved cycle time, according to GHH.

The company said special emphasis was placed on a safe and simple design, with low maintenance and repair costs, and operator safety and comfort kept in mind through the entire design process. The ROPS/FOPS certified cab is ergonomically designed to be spacious, quiet, pressurised and effectively air-conditioned to ensure maximum operator comfort while minimising fatigue, GHH says. The strategically placed trainer seat, meanwhile, provides for effective operator training.

The new MK-42 fits seamlessly into the manufacturer’s range of dump trucks and is the perfect haulage partner for GHH’s LF-14 loader, with the combination of the two offering three pass loading, GHH said. Extensive consulting, aftermarket support, parts sales and technical training are just a few of the services GHH offers to all customers worldwide.

Global sales will start shortly as the prototype truck enters its final stage of rigorous testing, GHH said, which added that a special version, the MK-A45, will be marketed exclusively for the Russia market.

Sandvik and Volvo Penta collaborate on Stage V underground LHDs

Environmental, Equipment maintenance, Mining equipment, Sustainable mining, , , , , ,

Sandvik says it is readying the release of its first Stage V compliant underground loaders for hard-rock mining applications following extensive testing.

In early 2020, the company’s newest intelligent loaders, the Sandvik LH517i and Sandvik LH621i, will get the Stage V treatment. The Stage V Volvo Penta engines will be globally available as options, but require ultra-low sulphur fuel and low-ash engine oil to operate, Sandvik said.

The planned release follows more than 10,000 hours of LHD testing underground, on multiple customer sites in Europe, and with millions of hours of on-highway experience from Volvo. This has led to the new technology meeting customer expectations, equipment performance requirements and the most stringent emission regulations valid at the moment, according to Sandvik.

The base engine and selective catalytic reduction (SCR) purifier are proven Volvo technology, enhanced now with a ceramic diesel particle filter (DPF), according to Sandvik.

“As a result of the collaborative product development work, the engine – delivered by Volvo Penta – and Sandvik load and haul equipment work seamlessly together to maintain productivity and reliability in the most challenging environments,” Sandvik said.

The benefits of Stage V compliant loaders include reduced amounts of particles in the diesel exhaust – helping mines to improve air quality underground – and the ability to operate with up to 3% reduced fuel consumption, compared with previous stage engines.

Sandvik said: “Another key enabler for the equipment availability is passive regeneration of the diesel particulate filter; the soot accumulated in the filter is burned off during equipment normal operation, without the need for frequent stand still regeneration.”

A new feature in the Stage V engine is the modulating engine brake, which enables the operator to adjust the engine braking power, allowing for better control of vehicle speed downhill, while minimising brake and transmission overheating and brake wear. Both the modulating engine brake and the passive regeneration contribute to high uptime of the equipment.

Added benefits of the Stage V engines include high altitude operating capability – up to plus-3,500 m above sea level – and lower noise levels compared with previous Stage engines.