MINEXPO PREVIEW
chargers , Caterpillar will highlight its “ building block technology packages ” for fleet management systems ( FMS ) to fully autonomous machine operation under the Cat MineStar technology platform . Visitors will be able to experience interactive engagement with MineStar FMS for both surface and underground operations at the exhibit ’ s conversation stations . A third station will allow attendees to explore precision mining solutions dedicated to site optimisation .
Caterpillar is set to launch two new MineStar technology offerings at the show : n Delivering the next layer of safety , Collision Awareness System ( CAS ) is a site-wide solution that uses the latest in technology advancements to enhance situational awareness by warning operators of potential machine interactions before they have a chance to happen , the company says . This will be highlighted on a 995 wheel loader and the 798 AC ; and n A new office application for Terrain Payload Management to expand the payload tracking technology to Cat electric rope shovels and draglines . Virtual reality experiences will allow attendees to “ get into the cab ” of the Cat 7495 electric rope shovel and 6060 hydraulic mining shovel .
And , showcasing the capabilities of Cat Command technology , two remote operating stations will give visitors the chance to operate a dozer or rotary blasthole drill located hundreds of kilometres away from the Caterpillar exhibit . A third station will offer simulations of Cat Command for underground , demonstrating the technology ’ s versatility and ease of use .
The in-booth Caterpillar service bay and nearby displays will highlight options available to mining customers for maintaining machinery and meeting production targets . Also , track pad displays for rope and hydraulic shovels and dozers will show the latest offerings designed to maximise undercarriage life .
Additionally , team members will cover how Cat Customer Value Agreements provide a custom services package to enable “ hassle-free ” ownership of equipment .
More than ever , today ’ s mining companies are targeting sustainability goals while continuing to improve safety , reliability and cost-effectiveness at an operational level . To help support its customers ’ sustainability goals while helping to meet their mine operation objectives , Komatsu will focus on “ a sustainable future together ” in its 47,500-sq . ft ( 4,413 sq . m ) booth at MINExpo .
Komatsu will unveil new products and digital solutions that , it says , empower sustainable mining optimisation to help customers strike a balance between environmental impacts and operations priorities . From optimising existing fleets to providing alternative-fuelled equipment , the company will be showcasing products , solutions and services that reflect the company ’ s strong commitment to helping customers find the right path forward for their operation , including new offerings . These include several electric-powered machines and interoperable solutions to help unlock the full potential of mining operations via technology .
A few key highlights for Komatsu at MINExpo 2024 include : n The 930E-PADT power-agnostic mining truck with an adaptable drive platform that can be configured for different power sources or energy systems , such as diesel / trolley , battery ( with dynamic or static charging ), battery / trolley or even hydrogen fuel cells ; n The PC4000-11E electrically powered hydraulic mining excavator that , Komatsu says , delivers the powerful digging force needed and expected from conventional machines while enabling zero-emissions loading ; n The ZB31 is a medium-class bolter with flexibility to accommodate different bolt types and an innovative common platform for fast operator adoption ; a battery-electric option is available that delivers up to 165 kWh of onboard energy ; n Other new product launches that show the company ’ s underground mining equipment roadmap for electrification using battery technology designed to improve safety , reliability and durability in extreme-duty environments , as well as charging solutions that cater to unique operational needs ; and n Advanced mining technology such as MST Global advanced underground communications systems , Smart Quarry Site digital optimisation and other cutting-edge and data-driven solutions . Optimising fleet capabilities through advanced digitalisation , data analytics and automation solutions is another key focal points for Komatsu at this year ’ s event .
Recognising that the path forward will not look the same for every operation , Komatsu has designed a booth experience to help support customers at each stage of their journey toward a more sustainable future .
This booth experience will also showcase Komatsu ’ s continuing commitment to helping underground mine operators overcome their unique challenges , reduce costs and meet their production goals : a commitment recently reinforced with the acquisition of GHH Group GmbH . This acquisition has accelerated the company ’ s product development roadmap and significantly increased its product portfolio for the underground mining sector , delivering more choices and innovative solutions to mining operations .
“ GHH has a proven track record with a lineup of haulage equipment , such as LHDs and mining trucks ,” Komatsu says . “ With GHH now part of the growing Komatsu family , MINExpo 2024 is an excellent opportunity for underground mining operators to explore an equipment lineup that can add new production capabilities to their fleet .”
While GHH ’ s entire product lineup will be folded into the Komatsu underground mining portfolio , the two machines that will be featured at MINExpo 2024 include the WX15 LHD ( formerly GHH LF-14 ) and HX45 mining truck ( formerly GHH MK-45 ). Both Komatsu rebranded machines offer many features that align with the company ’ s emphasis on safety , productivity , operator comfort and streamlined maintenance .
Komatsu ' s PC4000-11E electric drive hydraulic mining excavator will be spotlighted at MINExpo 2024 . This workhorse enables zero-emissions loading for surface mining , the company says
18 International Mining | AUGUST 2024