Engineering & Mining Journal

JUN 2013

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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COMPANY PROFILE-PAID ADVERTISEMENT Hitachi's New EH5000AC-3 Rigid Frame Hauler Features Hitachi's New Drive Control System Hitachi's new hauler—the EH5000AC-3—is the company's largest rigid frame hauler and is one of the most technologically advanced mining trucks on the market today. The hauler, which was introduced at last year's MINExpo INTERNATIONAL, is the first hauler to feature the company's brand new Advanced Hitachi AC Drive System, the only system available on the market that is designed and built by the same company as the truck. The EH5000AC-3 features a Cummins QSKTTA60-CE diesel engine that generates 2,850hp (2,125kW) at 1,900 rpm and meets EPA Tier 2 emission requirements. The all-hydraulic actuated braking system provides precise braking control and quick system responses, and a new Hitachi system monitor provides display information and diagnostics of all onboard systems and controls. The most significant update, however, is the hauler's new AC drive system. At the core of the new system is the advanced propulsion technology, which delivers a whole new level of efficiency, vastly enhancing machine operations for mining professionals everywhere. "By specializing only on shovels and haulers, we are able to concentrate on producing highly-efficient machinery," said Ryan Blades, division manager, Hitachi Mining. "The new ACdrive technology advancements are a perfect example of the superior quality and performance of this approach." The new technology, which also powers Japan's famous bullet trains, outperforms previous and competitive systems through its simplicity, improved efficiency and enhanced dependability. It features: • Slip control for traction—similar to active traction control. • Slide control for grip—similar to an anti-lock brake system. • Pitch control for smoother ride control and control of bouncing when stopping. • Skid control for stability in cornering when road conditions are slippery. 38 E&MJ; • JUNE 2013 While slip and slide control were already available on the existing Hitachi trucks with Hitachi AC Drive Systems, the new Advanced Hitachi AC Drive System now features sensors on all four wheels. It also incorporates additional feedback from the drive system, front wheels, steering, suspension, and other systems on the truck to enhance the slip/slide control feature. Pitch and skid control are brand new features. Hitachi is the only company in the industry that designs and manufactures all components of its drive control system. It started producing its own drive system four years ago with the introduction of the EH3500ACII, and has created vast enhancements to this technology in that time span. "Unlike other companies, Hitachi doesn't wait for 'parts manufacturers' to develop innovations. Instead, we design, manufacture and integrate all components ourselves," said Blades. "There are many advantages to this approach. First and foremost, we are able to take advantage of vertical integration of Hitachi parts and technologies on the mining trucks. In addition, information, support and technology can flow easily between all parties. This, in turn, speeds the process of development." Hitachi's autonomous haulage technology is another example of the advantages of this approach. "In developing Hitachi's autonomous haulage system, we are able to vertically integrate existing Hitachi components and systems from automotive, train, and industrial applications," said Blades. "The lessons we have learned from these other industries give us the ability to advance our progress on applying these technologies to the mining industry." For more information about Hitachi shovels and haulers in North and South America, visit www.HitachiMining.com or visit your local Hitachi dealer. www.e-mj.com

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