• PLANT AND EQUIPMENT
NEW CAT 777E IMPROVEMENTS
Caterpillar
The new Cat 777E truck features improvements in power , torque , and transmission .
Offering the highest in-class payload of 98.2t , the 2021 Cat 777E truck features improvements in power , torque and transmission control to deliver best-in-class productivity . Updates also include configurable Eco Mode operation to reduce fuel consumption and drive down cost-per-tonne of material moved .
The updated Cat C32 engine delivers increased horsepower and a 7 % improvement in torque to increase hauling performance . Optimised fuel mapping of the engine and adaptive economy mode determine the most efficient operating point to improve truck fuel economy . Additionally , operators can select a variable engine derate from 0.5 % to 15 % in Eco Mode operation to further reduce fuel consumption — and the new automatic engine idle shutdown feature reduces fuel use and wear on engine components .
The 777E Truck improves productivity by up to 5 %. The new Advanced Productivity Electronic Control Strategy ( APECS ) improves transmission and engine coordination to better utilise available engine power . The result is as much as 7 % more torque delivered to the drive wheels for improved hauling performance . The new control system also provides smooth shifting for greater operator comfort .
REDEFINING VENTILATION
Despite the challenges presented in 2020 , TLT-Turbo Africa continues to redefine ventilation for mining operations across the continent . Their customised and pro-active approach to
38 • African
Mining • February 2021 ventilation solutions , combined with their new range of Auxiliary and Booster fans , have provided substantial electrical cost-savings to a major global gold and platinum producer , just three months after installing a customised pair of TLT-Turbo Africa ’ s fans at one of their South African sites .
TLT-Turbo Africa was approached by an ultra-deep mining operation located in Gauteng , requiring a recommendation for a suitable fan solution to be installed in a section of their mine . “ Following numerous engagements , our engineering and research and development teams set out to develop a customised solution , utilising our high efficiency A & B fan range ,” Vusi Madlopha , TLT-Turbo Africa head of sales & business development relates .
TLT-Turbo Africa ’ s solution was purpose-designed to meet the requirements of the mining operation . At the time , the operation was using multiple installations of auxiliary fans to deliver the required volume and pressure ( these auxiliary fans were consuming ± 630kwe ). The mine was also operating three main surface fans , each consuming ± 2MW of power .
“ The client ’ s main objective was to ensure that a sufficient volume of ventilating air was provided to the underground operations while reducing power consumption ,” explains Madlopha . “ To meet their needs , TLT-Turbo Africa was required to supply two fans , each capable of moving 71 m ³/ sec of
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