Modern Mining November 2018

PRODUCT News

‘Intelligent’ truck for underground operations

Sandvik is introducing a new ‘intelligent’ underground mining truck, the Sandvik TH545i, delivering benefits in customer safety, productivity and profitability. The new truck joins the existing i-series truck family – comprising the Sandvik TH551i and Sandvik TH663 – launched in July 2017. Compared to its predecessor, the Sandvik TH540, the truck offers a sig- nificant capacity increase by carrying 5 tonnes more. The truck’s standard engine power has been increased to 450 kW from 405 kW, which enables it to maintain fast speed even with the increased payload. The truck’s outer dimensions remain the same, which allows the new upgraded truck to fit in the same envelope as the previous model. The robust design of the TH545i is inherited from the well-proven Sandvik TH540, but the new truck is now loaded with ‘intelligence’. The truck features the Sandvik Intelligent Control System with data collection and reporting as standard.

It comes automation compatible and can be equipped with an optional AutoMine® Trucking Onboard Package. Yet another intelligent feature is the integrated weighing system (IWS) that is available as an option for all intelligent Sandvik trucks, supporting improved effi- ciency and ensuring full utilisation of the truck’s payload capacity.

From a safety point of view, the new model brings benefits to the maintenance personnel by means of a greatly improved access system to the top of the truck and safety rails – keeping in mind that all daily checks can be performed from ground level. Deon Lambert, Sandvik Mining and Rock Technology, tel (+27 11) 929-5300

The Sandvik TH545i underground truck.

November 2018  MODERN MINING  47