IM 2017 February | Página 75

ELECTRIFYING THE MINING PROCESS
The battery-powered Aramine miniLoader L120B
The company stated:“ this machine is a clear
improvement in safety compared to any electric line because there is no more cable lying around in the way, therefore, it is safer for the driver and the other employees working in the mine. This lack of cable also allows a larger perimeter of work and a more freedom of movement. The lack of cable also means no reel so enhances the reliability of the machine. Plus, there is a cost saving involved with no expensive cable. Our new engine technology on battery allows a general structure without a hydrostatic system, and this also improves the reliability of the machine.”
Aramine adds:“ Compared to diesel power, this will clearly enhance the quality of life during the operator shifts as well as for employees working around the machine, by improving the sound environment and the air quality. This last aspect of our machine allows you to make significant savings on mine ventilation thanks to zero emission technology.”
The new equipment is“ simple to operate and robust for the tough environment you have to work in. This small machine is a real concentration of technology and benefits. All of the powertrain has been redesigned from the Aramine miniLoader electric range to this new battery-powered range and brings unique operator safeness and ease of control. Battery charge also means constant power, so there will be no peak of current or voltage drop on a mine electrical network. Thus, this kind of machine needs a smaller electric network infrastructure in the mine therefore there is better reliability of the mine network and considerable economy on the installation of the electric infrastructure.” The new machine is delivered with two battery packs to ensure constant productivity.
And at Kirkland Lake
Kirkland Lake Gold is another leader in moving away from the use of diesel with the introduction of lithium-ion battery LHDs and trucks in its underground gold mines, and it will save capital investment as a result.
Kirkland Lake Gold has invested more than C $ 15 million in development of this technology. It is deploying a fleet of 12 battery-operated scoops and three trucks as it converts to trackless haulage and significantly increases its gold production. All units are web-enabled.
The team of Kirkland Lake Gold, the LHD and truck OEM fleet supplier RDH Mining Equipment in Sudbury and the battery system supplier Artisan Vehicle Systems in Camarillo, California, have worked together developing and testing prototypes for some years. Artisan has technicians that can monitor performance and assist in solving problems from its home base. Recently the team added Adria Inc, a well-known
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FEBRUARY 2017 | International Mining 73