“Trolley-assist has the potential to reduce fuel consumption by up to 30 percent, and is proven technology that has been extensively used in some mining markets.”
Komatsu has recently released the new 860E-1K electric-drive rigid-frame dump truck, featuring a payload capacity of 254 tonnes and the option of a factory-installed trolley-assist feature to save fuel, reduce emis sions and extend engine life.
The vehicle is designed to be matched to Komatsu PC5500-6 and PC8000-6 -sized shovels and excavators, WA1200-3 sized wheel loaders, and large rope shovels.
Powered by a Komatsu SSDA16V160, a 2,015kW, 16-cylinder, two-stage turbocharged Tier 2-certified diesel coupled with the Komatsu, Siemens control system ensures the new 860E is capable of enduring the rigorous demands expect from mining trucks.
According to Kris Burford, Komatsu Australia’s National Product Manager, Mining, Komatsu’s trolley-assist system can be used with either 1,600 or 1,800-volt lines, allowing the 860E to travel uphill faster while engine RPM reduces to idle speed, saving fuel and extending the life of the engine.
“Trolley-assist has the potential to reduce fuel consumption by up to 30 percent, and is proven technology that has been extensively used in some mining markets,” he says.
“Trolley-assist is also available as an option on our existing 730E-7 dump trucks, on consultation with Komatsu.”
The 860E-1K Komatsu-designed drive system produces a maximum speed of 64.5 km/h through a 35.52:1 final gear ratio powered by the latest Komatsu-Siemens control package.
This unique, liquid-cooled IGBT AC-drive system provides advanced features and a smooth application of torque and traction, says Burford.
“Another key feature of the 860E is its outstanding braking power, through an ultra-quiet dynamic retarding system, capable of generating 3,470kW of braking power is assisted by four-wheel wet-disc brakes.
“These braking elements, coupled with Komatsu’s traction control technology, provide excellent braking force even in difficult road conditions,” he says.
With the new truck, Komatsu has also paid attention to increasing operator comfort and making driving easier and less tiring.
“The 860E-1K cab features a deluxe, five-position adjustable air-ride seat as well as a full-size heavy duty passenger seat for operator training and other applications,” Burford adds.
“An integrated electronic dash display provides a standard suite of instrument gauges as well as payload data.
“To further enhance productivity and comfort during long shifts, the 860E’s steering column tilts and telescopes to customise the operator’s driving position, while automatic speed control for uphill or downhill hauling makes it easier for the operator to maintain a desired speed.
“New standard features and access systems ensure safety, comfort and longevity.”
As with all Komatsu large mining equipment, the new truck features Komatsu’s ‘vehicle health monitoring system’ (VHMS).
“Using a satellite communications system and optional wireless download, VHMS allows both Komatsu and mine-site technicians to use a simple internet interface to easily check key operating and trend data, monitor production data such as payload and cycle times, and be quickly alerted of any potential faults," Burford says.
The 860E-1K is now in limited release, followed by full-scale production in 2010, and fills a gap in Komatsu’s mining truck line-up, giving it a full range of trucks from 100 US tons to 360 US tons.
SPECS:
Make/Model: Komatsu 860E-1K electric-drive rigid-frame dump truck
Payload capacity: 254 tonnes
Engine: 16-cylinder, two-stage turbocharged Tier 2-certified diesel Komatsu SSDA16V160
Control system: Komatsu-Siemens control package with 35.52:1 final gear ratio
Torque: 2,015kW
Maximum speed: 64.5 km/h through a
Brakes: four-wheel wet-disc brakes
Braking power: 3,470kW