CAPITAL EQUIPMENT NOV 2018

MINING NEWS

New 740 GC expands Cat's articulated truck line-up The Cat 740 GC articulated dump truck (ADT) re-introduces the 40-ton (36,3 mt) size class

to the Cat ADT range. The new model is designed to incorporate the proven features and performance of models currently in the ADT line-up, including new controls, trans- mission-protection features, hoist-assist system, advanced traction-control system, stability-assist system, and a fuel-saving ECO mode. In addition, the 740 GC also incorporates the latest automatic retarder-control system, which requires no input from the operator, resulting in greater operating efficiency. For added control and convenience, the new model also features a “wait-brake”, which temporarily applies the service brakes during pauses in the work cycle, reducing operator effort and fatigue. Also, a hill-start system automatically holds the machine on grades, allowing the operator to move from the service brake to the throttle with no roll- back on slopes. The 740 GC cab features the new “exter- nal spinal-ROPS” which is found on other Cat ADTs in the range. The cab incorporates a rear-quarter glass that eliminates a struc- tural pillar, resulting in enhanced rear visibil- ity. A “wake-up” feature initiates machine displays when the door is opened. The door itself is lighter and stronger than previous designs and more effectively seals against In line with the Mine Health and Safety Act’s regulations on machinery and equipment, the onus is on mines to ensure that their proximity detection systems (PDSs) are ‘fit for purpose’ when it comes to preventing collisions between trackless mobile machines (TMMs) and pedestrians. In terms of the 2015 gazetted regulations, the employer must take “reasonably practi- cable measures” to ensure that pedestrians are prevented from being injured as a result of these collisions. The regulations also stipulate certain requirements regarding warning systems to pedestrians and TMM operators, and automatic means of retarding speed and braking on TMMs. This focus on compliance has kept Booyco Electronics at the forefront of technology development, innovating increasingly effec- tive products to enhance safety and asset management on opencast and underground mines. As a pioneer in proximity detection, the company produces a range of solutions including interventions in vehicle operation to help prevent accidents and injury. The Booyco Electronics’ PDS warns the

Caterpillar has expanded its ADT range with the launch of its new 740 GC ADT.

dust infiltration. The overall cab design results in interior sound levels of 72 dB(A). Optional infrared glass reduces solar heating inside the cab, and left- and right- hand sliding windows increase ventila- tion, while also facilitating communica- tion with workers and the loader operator. An automatic climate-control (HVAC) system positions more vents above and behind the operator for increased heating and cooling efficiency. An optional heated/cooled seat provides added adjustments that allow operators to “dial in” personal comfort settings, and the second seat with added cushioning now pedestrians of an approaching vehicle and alerts the TMM operator that a pedestrian is within dangerous proximity of the vehicle. Using very low frequency (VLF) technology to generate a magnetic field around a vehicle proved to be a breakthrough in underground safety, as the VLF signal could propagate through the underground rock to identify hazards even before they were visible to the pedestrian or operator. Both the pedestrians and drivers carry a personal communication tag which is activated when entering a warning zone around moving machinery. As the mining regulations have raised the bar in terms of fit for purpose requirements,

uses a flip-up/flip-down design to provide additional cab storage. The optional Cat Connect PAYLOAD tech- nology calculates payload via sensors on the walking-beam suspension and includes load-status lights at all four corners of the cab roof to ensure visibility to the loader operator from any angle. In addition, the standard Cat Detect/Stability-Assist system monitors the working angle of the tractor and body, as well as the grade, and cautions the operator if the machine is approaching a set threshold angle, stopping the dump process if continued action might potentially result in tipping. b so Booyco Electronics has evolved its PDS systems to provide feedback into TMM control systems. This is done through the creation of ‘zones’ within the magnetic field which trigger specific actions. The proven accuracy of the technology can define these zones very precisely. A first zone of safety, for instance, may be 20 m from the moving vehicle, and is accurate to within 10 centimetres. A receiver and buzzer unit carried by the miner alerts them if they enter a dangerous area, even when out of sight of the vehicle operator, who is then warned if the pedestrian enters a second zone, closer to the vehicle. b

Ongoing evolution keeps Booyco PDS fit for purpose

The Booyco PDS is robustly constructed, ensuring its durability under tough operational conditions.

CAPITAL EQUIPMENT NEWS NOVEMBER 2018 38