BAUMA PREVIEW
company will continue to drive forward in the coming years . In [ the ] future , artificial intelligence and the Internet of Things , for instance , will be integrated more heavily into machines and work processes . We will also forge ahead with the expansion of the cloud infrastructure to process the growing volumes of data efficiently and to facilitate new datapowered business models .”
Liebherr is presenting a digital solution at bauma from the mining product segment : IoMine , with which Liebherr says it is increasing the safety and productivity levels of operations in the mine , reducing machine failure rates through real-time monitoring and , in turn , extending the machine ’ s service life for customers .
In addition , digital solutions fundamentally facilitate the collection of relevant machine data and process data . This analysis and evaluation ensure that machine operations and machine maintenance based on cutting-edge technologies can be predicted with more precision and planned for more effectively , Liebherr says . Relevant to this , the components product segment is presenting its Energy Planner at bauma . This browser-based software is used for planning every aspect of a construction site ’ s power and energy requirements .
Liebherr is also running a live demonstration of an autonomous working wheel loader in the outdoor area . The basis for this is the in-house developed autonomous driving system called ‘ Liebherr Autonomous Operations ’, which is being presented to the wider public for the first time . The autonomous solution , which is at an advanced stage of development , facilitates completely driverless operation .
The battery-driven and autonomous T 264 mining truck – the fruition of many years of collaboration between Liebherr and Fortescue in the fields of mining autonomy and zero emissions development – will also be showcased . Following MINExpo in September 2024 , the technology will be presented to a large , international audience beyond mining for the first time at bauma . The mining truck is equipped with the Autonomous Haulage Solution ( AHS ), jointly developed by the two companies . Within the AHS is an energy management system that coordinates the stationary charging processes for the mining truck and ensures the charger is fully used .
Komatsu WA700 , PC7000 to shine
Among many machines Komatsu is set to showcase in April are the all-new WA700 wheel loader and the huge PC7000-11 hydraulic excavator .
The former has been engineered with over a century of quarry and mining expertise to deliver unparalleled levels of safety , increased
productivity , exceptional durability and impeccable environmental credentials , the company says .
“ Before commencing development , our engineers actively collected customers ’ input , identifying that safety , cost per tonne produced , CO 2 emissions , maximising uptime and operator wellbeing were the key concerns of our customers ,” the company explains . “ These insights were integral to the development process , resulting in a powerful machine equipped with advanced features and technologies , including unrivalled power and stability , substantial load capacity and bucket volume , and extreme durability .”
The wheel loader offers an ideal match with Komatsu ’ s 60-t rigid dump truck , according to Jo Monsieur , Deputy General Manager Product Marketing from Komatsu Europe .
It comes equipped with an EU Stage V 578 kW Komatsu engine for increased engine power and torque . This engine also benefits from a new efficient cooling system and reduced hydraulic losses , resulting in fast cycle times and improved fuel efficiency . Furthermore , the machine can be filled with B20 biodiesel and is 100 % compatible with paraffinic fuels such as Hydrotreated Vegetable Oil ( HVO ), significantly reducing CO 2 emissions .
As standard , the machine ’ s safety package includes emergency push buttons , certified anchorage and tie-down points , and battery , starter and hydraulic lockouts . The machine also comes standard with full LED lamps , ensuring
The PC7000-11E offers a class-leading 44 cu . m backhoe bucket for increased productivity , according to Komatsu
visibility and safety during night operations .
Automation features , including an automatic digging system , semiautomatic approach and semi-auto dump systems , simplify repetitive tasks , helping operators optimise load cycles while avoiding fatigue . These systems are beneficial for less experienced operators , helping to close skills gaps and enhance overall operational efficiency .
The PC7000 , meanwhile , is making a bauma comeback after last being showcased in 2016 .
Designed to fill 240-290 tonne trucks , the PC7000 comes with a 38 cu . m shovel sized to cycle big loads fast , while its advanced intelligent data solutions and performance monitoring can help operators optimise the transfer of every load .
Komatsu has been working on a commercial teleremote operation option for this excavator for some time , showcasing this at MINExpo 2021 .
On show at bauma will be the PC7000-11E hydraulic mining excavator in a backhoe configuration . This machine offers a class-leading 44 cu . m backhoe bucket for increased productivity , up to 95 % reduction in CO 2 emissions versus the diesel equivalent , up to 50 % savings in total cost of ownership , improved accessibility and advanced safety features , and an automatic cable drum for optimised cable management , the company says .
100 and counting for Cat
Caterpillar Inc will reflect on its centenary in Munich as well as look forward to the next 100 years , highlighting its commitment to innovation and sustainability .
Covering over 9,000 sq . m , Caterpillar ’ s exhibit will feature 48 machines , including 17 new introductions or upgrades . These include enhancements to the battery electric line-up , expansions to the Next Generation line-up , and additions to the Demolition , Waste Handling and Recycling portfolios .
44 International Mining | MARCH 2025