Mining Digital November 2021 | Page 35

DIGITAL MINING
Complementary solutions drive mine efficiency As a well-established equipment manufacturer , Hitachi Construction Machinery has engineered some of the most sophisticated machines to break real-world barriers in open mine settings . The EX8000 mining excavator – with an operating weight of over 800 tonnes – is one of its latest engineering triumphs , along with its range of EH AC-3 rigid dump trucks , both designed to work seamlessly with each other . The EH AC-3 series truck has been developed for optimal speed and fuel consumption as it encounters varying terrains on-site . “ The Hitachi rigid dump truck with trolley configuration has the capability of switching its power source from diesel to overhead electric power for uphill haul roads , to achieve around twice the speed of a conventional diesel-powered model , or on flat haul roads to help reduce diesel consumption , which leads to reduced carbon emissions and life-cycle costs ,” says Martin .
Hitachi Construction Machinery also leverages its subsidiaries ’ solutions for effective use of its vehicles , such as the Fleet Management System supplied by Wenco International Mining Systems Ltd . “ The fleet management system provided by Wenco is an integrated suite of solutions to support the digital transformation of the mining industry ,” Martin explains .
The fleet management solution can pay dividends in terms of mining efficiency , by ensuring that machines are optimised for transport speed and continuous operation . It also leverages data analytics and other technologies to allow for predictive maintenance , increasing the life-cycle of individual vehicle components and mitigating as much potential downtime as possible .
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