Engineering and Mining Journal - Whether the market is copper, gold, nickel, iron ore, lead/zinc, PGM, diamonds or other commodities, E&MJ takes the lead in projecting trends, following development and reporting on the most efficient operating pr
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E Q U I P M E N T G A L L E RY Electric LHD Offers an Alternative to Diesel The latest addition to Atlas Copco's range of Scooptram underground loaders—the Scooptram EST1030—is designed to offer an attractive alternative to diesel-powered equipment in underground mining. According to the company, the all-electric LHD consumes less energy, requires less ventilation, produces less heat and has a lower noise level than an equivalent diesel machine—in fact, using about 40% less energy and producing 40% less heat during routine operations than its diesel version. Although cable-powered electric loaders are not new in concept, cable safety, handling and control have always been troublesome areas. However, the EST1030 introduces a new, patented cable control system that minimizes cable tension and wear problems. And, said Atlas Copco, the loader can be operated by anyone familiar with its wellknown ST1030 diesel model; controls are similar to the diesel version and the electric machine requires only a minimum amount of training to allow the operator to work effectively. Safety features include springapplied, hydraulically released (SAHR) brakes, and the loader's ISO and ROPS/FOPS approved cabin features a foot box that provides increased leg room and ergonomic control placements. The cabin is cushioned on rubber mounts, reducing vibration for the operator. The electric 152 E&MJ; • APRIL 2013 Scooptram shares 90% of its components with the diesel Scooptram ST1030. www.atlascopco.com New Cat Hammers Retain Popular Features Caterpillar has added three models to the E Series Hammer line—H140Es, H160Es and H180Es—for use on medium and large excavators ranging from its 324E to the 374D L. The energy classes of the H140Es, H160Es and H18Es are 6,000 ftlb (8,135 J), 8,500 ft-lb (11,525 J) and 12,000 ft-lb (16,270 J), respectively. The E Series Hammers build on the proven D Series Hammers, which the new hammers replace. E Series Hammers feature a new symmetrical housing design, which allows rotating the housing 180° to compensate for wear. The lower portion incorporates rock edges that add protection to the housing and enable quick positioning of boulders. An optional wear package is available to improve hammer durability in severe applications. Features carried over from the D Series include automatic shut-off, which instantly stops the hammer when the tool breaks through material. The system increases hammer reliability and durability by eliminating high internal stresses created by blank firing. Another feature continued in each E Series Hammer is the exter- nal pressure control valve, which reduces service time when an adjustment is necessary. The E Series Hammers are designed to be field serviceable with common hand tools. Sound suppression is standard for environmental protection and operator comfort. The new hammers' settings are www.e-mj.com