Hitachi Construction Machinery unveils a sustainable future in mining
Hitachi Construction Machinery showcased solutions driving their Path to Zero on mine sites; Zero Emissions, Zero Downtime, and Zero Entry Mines at MINExpo 2024.
Attendees witnessed the introduction of the EH4000AC-5 rigid dump truck that redefines capability in its class, the EX-7 excavators that balance innovation with a proven design, and a collaboration with Envirosuite Ltd. to provide intelligent insights for responsible mining.
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| The next-generation EH4000AC-5 rigid dump truck sets new performance benchmarks for mine site productivity, sources report. |
Rigid dump truck
The next-generation EH4000AC-5 rigid dump truck sets new performance benchmarks for mine site productivity, sources report. This truck offers the industry’s highest payload — 266 tons — and reaches a maximum speed of 40 mph to redefine material handling efficiency. This enhanced capability is a direct result of applying metal fabrication technologies perfected in the design of hydraulic excavators to the truck frame and body.
Durability is built-in with a strengthened suspension that delivers smooth and stable performance. Operators can choose from three driving modes (High Power, Power or Eco) to match the site environment. Eco mode reduces fuel consumption while High Power mode maximizes driving performance. The truck has been designed to deliver a lower cost per ton.
The Hitachi AC Drive Control Systems technology enhances stability, performance and maneuverability. Wet brakes in the front and back are paired with an enhanced retarder for superior deceleration performance in the harshest mining environments. The truck delivers more stable braking during long downhill operations with elevated electric braking performance and a new brake pedal, offering both hydraulic and electric braking.
A redesigned cab improves operator comfort with an upgraded center console featuring ergonomic switches and levers. The monitor provides the operator with loading conditions and information regarding safety conditions around the truck.
The EH4000AC-5 was designed with an eye toward the future. The truck can be upgraded to a fully electric specification with batteries and a trolley dynamic charging system that receives power from overhead lines.
Testing battery electric trucks
The first technological feasibility trial of the full battery electric trolley truck is now underway with the truck operating at First Quantum Minerals Ltd.’s Kansanshi deep open-pit copper-gold mine in the Republic of Zambia. First announced in June 2024, the trial of the ultra-large, full-battery rigid frame dump truck aims to verify the basic performance operations — such as traveling, turning and stopping — under actual operating loads and verify battery charging and discharging cycles.
“Mining companies around the world are working to reduce emissions. As an original equipment manufacturer, it is our vision to provide solutions that can reduce our customers’ environmental footprint. The battery dump truck represents the future, not only for the Hitachi Construction Machinery Group but for the mining industry as a whole and we are pleased to establish this proving ground on an active mine site and work with First Quantum on advancing this zero-emission solution,” says Eiji Fukunishi,Hitachi Construction Machinery’s vice president and executive officer and president of Mining Business Unit.
The full-battery dump truck can continuously operate in sites by directly charging from the overhead trolley lines and through the regenerative braking system. This means the truck does not need to stop to be charged.
First Quantum is a leader in trolley system operations. The use of Kansanshi infrastructure and the collaboration with First Quantum makes it possible to fast-track this evolving technology into a commercially viable solution.
Intelligence supports responsible mining
Improving the site environment for the safety and health of workers and reducing the environmental impact on local communities is essential for sustainable resource extraction. Mine sites need intelligent tools to achieve this goal.
The collaboration with Envirosuite is a cornerstone of Hitachi Construction Machinery’s strategy to address global demand around environmental, social, and governance (ESG) and greenhouse gas (GHG) challenges in mining. Envirosuite is an environmental intelligence technology company that helps mines manage operational challenges to reduce risk and improve productivity. Envirosuite’s solutions combine operational data, evidence-based scientific methods and predictive meteorological models. Real-time monitoring of air quality, dust, noise, odor, vibration and water quality helps operations management make informed decisions.
Hitachi Construction Machinery will combine its mining knowledge with Envirosuite’s industrial technology and the fleet management and digital mining solutions of Wenco, a wholly-owned subsidiary to provide comprehensive insights.
Learn more about Hitachi Construction Machinery product line here: https://www.hitachicm.us/industry/mining/
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