Atlas Copco Scooptram ST7 Battery load-haul-dump rig
October 18, 2016 – COMMERCE CITY, Colo. – The new Atlas Copco Scooptram ST7 Battery load-haul-dump rig allows mines to go deeper without increasing ventilation costs. Launched first in North America, the battery-powered Scooptram ST7 Battery has proven the safety, comfort and versatility of zero emissions in a powerful machine.
Design of the Scooptram ST7 Battery was driven by new developments in battery technology and created at the request of a Canadian mining company.
Traditionally, trackless underground mines have relied on diesel engines with exhaust and particulate concerns. The cost to ventilate emissions rises quickly as mines expand and lower levels are developed. Since the Scooptram ST7 Battery has no emissions, it easily exceeds environmental standards and modern mining safety requirements.
Lars Senf, vice president of marketing at Atlas Copco Underground Rock Excavation division, explained: “Loaders and trucks consume about 80 percent of the diesel fuel underground. Loaders are often used in development headings of the mine, which are the most difficult to ventilate. To make the greatest impact on work environment and ventilation costs, it was an obvious choice for Atlas Copco to launch a battery-driven loader as our first product of this type.
Although electric-powered, rubber tire heavy equipment already exists for use in underground hard rock mines, these units have to be tethered to an electric cable. The cable limits their range and presents other operating challenges.
The ST7 Battery LHD operates exactly the same as a diesel-powered ST7 LHD. Those currently in use are providing about four hours of service from a full battery charge. Battery swaps can be made in about 10 minutes. Fully recharging a battery takes approximately 2.5 hours.
The Scooptram ST7 Battery offers mining companies greater versatility from an electrically powered LHD with even greater control over their operations through its automated functions. For example, mines have the capability not only to control multiple ST7 loaders from a safe, remote location but in a perfectly planned, repeatable production cycle every time.
The ST7 Battery shares 90 percent of its components with the successful diesel Scooptram, reducing on site inventory requirements.
Battery power not only reduces ventilation requirements but also improves the work environment, generating 80 percent less heat with nearly silent operation. This creates a healthier, more comfortable, and safer workplace.
Atlas Copco Mining & Rock Excavation is responsible for the sales, aftersales service and rental of equipment for surface and underground rock excavation, exploration drilling, rock reinforcement, ground engineering, water well, oil and gas drilling. The company is headquartered near Denver, Colorado. The business extends its reach through a nationwide network of sales and service stores and specialist distributors. More information: 800-732-6762, [email protected], www.atlascopco.us, Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn, YouTube and Google+.