Taking it Underground
An underground aggregate mine is a unique operation, requiring the use of some unique equipment.
By Kerry Clines, Senior Editor
Compact, maneuverable loader
The Cat R1700G underground loader offers a compact design, high engine power, high torque rise, and maneuverability. The loader is equipped with a C11 Acert engine and a four-speed planetary power-shift transmission with electronic autoshift for smooth operation. Additional features include a 7.5-cubic-yard bucket capacity and a payload capability of about 14 tons.
Caterpillar Inc. | www.cat.com
Ramp-hoisting truck
The Sandvik TH663 truck is the newest addition to the company’s TH500-600 series ramp-hoisting trucks. The truck’s 35-percent larger ROPS/FOPS-certified cab features a four-point retractable safety belt for the operator seat and a three-point safety belt for the trainer seat. An easy-to-use control system display with color-coded warnings allows the operator to spot problems while working. The truck also features front frame suspension.
Sandvik Mining | www.sandvik.com
Multi-functional ANFO hauler
UnderGround Force’s new underground ANFO hauler provides an explosives delivery solution using a standard 416E Cat tractor with modifications, such as a rear quick-connect system, engine exhaust routed under the tractor, exhaust scrubber, underground mine-site lighting package, and riggers for stability. A work platform attaches to the front boom arms as a man lift for product delivery. The platform has a full wrap-around handrail, safety harness attaching points, boom controls, and engine controls. A stainless-steel rear platform with anti-slip decking attaches via the rear lift group and holds a 600-pound ASME-certified, stainless-steel hopper and all necessary plumbing and fittings for product application.
Ventilation system
Atlas Copco’s SwedVent ventilation system features high-pressure fans that deliver air along extensive lengths of tunneling from 106 to 7,063 cubic feet per second. The system includes flexible ducting and control systems, as well as silencers for noise reduction. Its design takes into account system pressure, total leakage, motor load, airflow, and other safety considerations, in addition to energy consumption.
Atlas Copco Construction Mining Technique USA LLC | www.atlascopco.us
Low-profile drill
J.H. Fletcher says its low-profile HV-32 rotary percussive drill head is designed specifically for roof bolting applications. The low-frequency high-impact nature of the drill’s percussion cycle increases drilling efficiency in hard-to-penetrate rock. The unit is offered with new roof bolters and as a retrofit kit, which is fully supported with stock parts.
J.H. Fletcher & Co. | www.jhfletcher.com
Extreme-duty pedestal boom
Atlas Copco’s series of extreme-duty (XD) pedestal boom systems are designed for grizzly stations in underground mines and gyratory crushers in open pits. Key components include the pedestal boom’s flexi-base, slew mechanism, cylinders, and pin-locking system. With five systems in all, the series offers a horizontal reach ranging from 8.8 feet to 30 feet and the ability to handle breakers weighing up to 4,850 pounds.
