Modern Mining July 2016

LOGISTICS

with Scania

quickly and easily so that we can ensure high efficiency levels at all times.” According to Groenewaldt, the data col- lected on board Scania trucks gives valuable insight into driving styles, productivity and economy. “This level of tracking and diagnostics can bring significant benefits in increased uptime, improved safety and reduced operating costs,” he explains. “Features such as a weekly moni- toring report shows the owner at a glance where action is needed to improve the performance of drivers and vehicles.” A monitoring package provides regular and consolidated reports by e-mail, allowing fleet operators to identify the factors that are affect- ing their fuel consumption or even carbon dioxide emissions. The mining demo unit, a G410 model with CG14 cab, has been specially designed for off-road use – with axles specified for the maxi- mum technical weight of 50 000 kg (front axles rated at 9 000 kg by two, and the rear bogie rated at 32 000 kg). “This allows up to 34-tonne payload, depending on the type of body fitted,” states Groenewaldt. “To support this weight, the vehi- cle is fitted with 325/95R24 tyres.” The vehicle is propelled by a Euro 3 engine producing 302 kW at 1 900 revolutions per minute (rpm), and a maximum torque at 1 000-1 350 rpm of 2 000 Newton metres (Nm). “Driving the vehicle is simple, as it has an automatic clutch and ‘opti-cruise’ function which controls the robust GRSO925R gearbox,” he states. “Brakes work in conjunction with a powerful 4 100 Nm retarder and exhaust brake producing 263 kW at 2 400 rpm.” For safety, the vehicle has an anti-lock brak- ing system (ABS), driver’s seatbelt pre-tensioner and a two-circuit steering that allows the driver to keep control in the case of an engine shut- off; the steering continues to function while the vehicle is in motion. “For extra chassis strength, the vehicle has our toughest frame – the F958,” says Groenewaldt. “This is a double skin frame made up of 9,5 mm outer skin and an 8 mm inner skin.” Peace of mind With priority on vehicle uptime and continu- ous operations, EC Blaauw opted to make use of Scania’s full repair and maintenance contract.

One of EC Blaauw’s fleet of Scania P410 tipper trucks doing duty on a platinum mining contract near Rustenburg.

“This makes sense for us, as it provides a cost-effective solution for our highly pres- surised working environment, giving us peace of mind that the trucks are always in tip-top condition and the chance of any unexpected stoppage is minimal,” Van Heerden points out. “Having a fixed monthly cost for maintenance and repairs also makes it easier for us to bud- get for our most significant expenses – which include our trucks.” With the Scania dealer taking responsibility for scheduled maintenance, he says his com- pany can also be confident that the value of these substantial assets is being protected by high standards of workmanship and genuine parts replacement. Certain aspects of mainte- nance can now be conducted on the company’s Kroondal site given the growing number of Scania units in its fleet – adding another level of convenience and reducing each unit’s stand- ing time. “Scania was also able to help us raise the bar in terms of driver development,” he says. “Good drivers are at the core of our business, being responsible for managing and preserving our largest physical assets. So we made sure that our drivers took advantage of the week- long training Scania course that familiarised them with the new units, and generally sharp- ened their skills.” Van Heerden adds that the result was immediately apparent, with improvements in important factors such as fuel efficiency. Scania’s P-series is designed with the driver’s safety and comfort in mind, says Groenewaldt – resulting in better control, easier access, excellent visibility and low noise. A shorter cab configuration for mining and construction sites allows for optimal axle placement and a tight turning radius. Report by Paul Crankshaw

“The technology in the truck – such as on-board weightometer

and camera – allows us to monitor operational

data quickly and easily so that we can ensure high efficiency levels at all times.”

July 2016  MODERN MINING  47