Last week John Chadwick visited the Stillwater palladium/platinum mine near Nye, Montana, USA. Here two Kiruna Electric trucks from GIA/ABB were recently commissioned. The trucks are hauling from lower level production on a dedicated ramp, below the shaft bottom. Shaft deepening and a conveyor ramp were considered as alternatives, but this trolley assisted truck option was chosen as the best for this mine.
The key operating advantages of the Kiruna Electric are: high-speed on steep inclines of up to 20% and an improved working environment due to much less noise and no exhaust fumes. There is also a capital expenditure advantage in the correct application.
Image of a K635ED, 35-ton Kiruna Electric Mining Haulage Truck, by GIA Mining and Tunnelling.