Sandvik launches the next generation of Trucks

The largest hauling capacity per envelope size
The new additions to the TH500–600 series ramp hoisting trucks have been designed to the last degree, with state-of-the-art safety and productivity levels previously unheard of, not to mention the increased overall hauling speeds (tons per hour). The series’ trucks will also be available with low emission Tier 4i -technology engines that provide remarkable torque characteristics with low fuel consumption. Significantly reducing the costs caused by underground ventilation, the environmentally friendly engines also markedly improve underground working conditions.

The TH551 and TH663 are engineered to be a perfect match for the LH517 and LH621 loaders. This productivity partners concept allows for a fast 3-bucket loading system which increases the load and haul cycle efficiency, resulting in high levels of overall cycle productivity.

The TH 500–600 series continues the successful saga of the former Sandvik trucks, which were regarded as the best underground trucks of their time.
“Innovative thinking, comprehensive research in the complete underground hard rock hoisting application and customer feedback have played a major role in the design process of these new trucks”, says Mark Ryan, Product manager for Sandvik Trucks.

Probably the safest hoisting trucks ever made
With 63+ different safety features to protect the operator, maintenance staff and the truck itself, the TH551 and TH663 are probably the safest hoisting trucks ever made. Through intelligent design, the TH500–600 series’ trucks also offer maximum operator comfort. The trucks have been designed and built with high reliability and ease of maintenance in mind. Particular attention has been given to the replacement time of large components, such as engine transmission, resulting in significant increases in uptime hours and the total tonnes per year hoisted.

To name just a few examples of the vast array of novel features available on this new series, the ergonomic ROPS and FOPS certified cabin is now 35% larger than its predecessors, offering features such as 4-point retractable safety belt for the operator seat and 3-point safety belt for the trainer seat, mp3-player, cabin refrigerator and easy to use control system display with color coded warnings, making it easier for the operator to concentrate on the work at hand – while still making sure that warnings are easily spotted. In addition, these trucks also feature front frame suspension.

Ease and speed of maintenance
Daily maintenance of the TH551 and TH663 can be done from ground level, minimizing the risks related to climbing on the machine. That said, the anti-slip materials of the steps and surfaces, together with the safety rails on top of the truck, further add to personnel safety even in cases where climbing is required.

“When designing the TH551 and TH663 we looked at the situations that involve the most downtime for our customers. What do you do when your fully loaded hoisting truck is blocking the haulage ramp due to a flat tire, stopping your whole hoisting operation?” asks Ryan rhetorically.

The outcome of this study resulted in one of the most outstanding features of these trucks. The TH551 and TH663 are now equipped with an optional onboard jacking system, which allows fast and safe tire changing instead of prolonged downtime. This feature is another example of the importance of overall uptime (tons moved per year) and the fact that overall speed is not the only factor involved in high hoisting truck productivity.

The TH551 will be available in mid 2013 and the TH663 in late 2013.