Caterpillar

Building on a more than half-century legacy that includes the best-selling large mining loader model of all time, the new Cat^® 992 Wheel Loader sets a new standard by offering up to 32% greater productivity. This new large mining loader reduces maintenance costs by as much as 10% and offers up to 48% greater payload-per-fuel efficiency than the earlier model 992K.

Powered by the new Cat C32B engine with U.S. EPA Tier 4 Final/EU Stage V and Tier 2 equivalent emission engine options, the new 992 meets the global industry’s demand for high-production equipment with greater payloads. Powertrain design enhancements to the transmission, axles and final drive, along with the new engine, deliver a 20% longer interval for planned component replacement.

Offering both standard- and high-lift configurations, the 992 delivers the lowest cost-per-ton when paired with fleets of Cat 775, 777 and 785 trucks. Standard-lift payload capacities reach 23.1 tonnes (25.5 tons) for quarry face applications and 27.2 tonnes (30 tons) for loose material handling, while high-lift capacities reach 20.4 tonnes (22.5 tons) and 24.5 tonnes (27 tons) in respective applications.

More productive and efficient
A new Z-bar linkage optimized for performance, and improvements to rimpull and breakout force, deliver greater machine capacity and efficiency. The new 992 has demonstrated in field testing up to 48% greater payload-per-fuel efficiency in applications where a four-pass match to 90.7 tonne (100-ton) trucks was achieved, versus five passes with the 992K. The powerful and efficient 992 provides up to 9.5% more rimpull during digging and up to 20% more breakout force, increasing productivity.

The new Cat 992 Wheel Loader features an on-demand throttle mode to optimize payload-per-fuel efficiency without slowing production. New standard automatic retarding controls disable the impeller clutch, enable the lockup clutch, and use the implement and fan pumps retarding to slow the machine on grade. The available advanced automatic retarding controls with engine brake feature offers full control of the loader’s speed on grade to maintain a desired hold speed.

Automating critical digging cycle elements, optional New Autodig Components further improve productivity and efficiency while reducing tire wear. To stop slippage before it happens, a tire slip prevention feature reduces rimpull before the tires are set and increases rimpull when downward force is applied to the tire. The tire set function detects pile contact and automatically lifts against the pile to set the tires and increase available traction. The lift stall prevention feature automatically manages rimpull in-dig to prevent hydraulic stall while lifting through the face, so the 992 spends less time in the pile.

Optional new Payload Overload Prevention allows for productivity and efficiency improvements by providing a large enough bucket to be used to achieve target pass-match across a range of material densities without the risk of overload. With the overload value fully adjustable based on the target payload, this feature can be configured to automatically stop or slow the lift function when the overload value is exceeded.

Improvements to the setback and strike plane angles, a longer bucket floor, and a stronger and larger bottom section increase the bucket fill factor by 10%. The taller side plate with level top surface helps to improve visibility beyond the bucket edge to the material pile.

Available Operator Coaching empowers operators to exceed productivity targets by measuring and providing feedback to teach proper operating techniques. Among other operating techniques, this feature shows how to properly shorten travel, avoid unracking in-dig, enter the pile with a level bucket, reduce the dump height, and use the kickout.

Elevated comfort and safety
The newly redesigned Cat 992 Wheel Loader cab increases visibility, offers intuitive control, and incorporates next-generation technology to boost efficiency by providing easily accessible information. Its taller windshield increases the glass surface area by 25%, resulting in 10% greater visibility. Operators will appreciate the cab’s 50% increase in legroom and more width by the knees.

Providing shift-long operating comfort, the new 992 controls feature electrohydraulic speed-sensing steering with force feedback. Two 254-mm (10-in) color LED monitors display machine control and operating functions. A separate 203-mm (8-in) screen provides a dedicated viewing feed of the standard rearview camera, upgradable with an optional 270-degree vision and object detection.

Low total cost of ownership
Extended major component life on the new 992 and improved service access deliver up to 10% lower maintenance costs. Automatic lubrication to Z-bar linkage pins with robust guarding helps to deliver more reliable operation. A front walkaround platform simplifies cleaning of cab windows. Two large openings per machine side offer quick and convenient access to the improved cooling package, reducing cleaning time.

Improved hydraulic systems filtration and pump prognostics for the implement pump reduce machine downtime. The new loader displays the remaining useful life for the engine air filter, allowing technicians to plan ahead for machine servicing.

Offering convenient and improved access to maintenance items, the service center has been relocated to the left-hand side of the machine, along with the fuel tanks. S∙O∙S^SM fluid sampling ports are safely accessed from ground level and filters are organized by type and change interval to increase maintenance efficiency.

Further informations:
Caterpillar

Caterpillar presented a number of new longwall mining products and solutions at the International Trade Fair for Mining, Power Generation and Metallurgy in Katowice/Poland. Together with the regional Cat® dealer, Bergerat Monnoyeur, Caterpillar showcased its latest technologies in the MCK Hall.

The Caterpillar exhibit featured digital presentations of new longwall machines, technologies and services – all designed to make longwall mining safer, more efficient and more productive. A highlight was the virtual reality experience, which enables customers to experience newly developed virtual reality service tools for Cat longwall systems (Figure 1).

Similar technology was used for the new Cat Virtual Reality Training & Simulation system. Real-time and realistic interactive 3D visualizations of real operations with Cat Virtual Reality Services offer opportunities to help trainees and operators understand the complex mechanics and operations of a complete longwall system, where so many pieces of equipment are interrelated.

Digital presentations also demonstrated Cat shearer automation – using technology for face alignment, horizon control and extraction control. Also, the latest version of Cat longwall machine monitoring, Cat MineStar™ Health for Longwall, was shown. Health for Longwall is a cost-effective and user-friendly data visualization and reporting tool. It empowers managers to efficiently view, manage and use machine data to make informed maintenance decisions that will help maximize the availability of longwall equipment.

Caterpillar designs and manufactures complete longwall systems customized to optimize performance in specific applications (Figure 2). The Katowice exhibit presentations featured new longwall components, such as the Cat EL1000 Shearer, designed for low to mid seam heights. This latest addition to the successful range of Cat shearers covers seam heights from 1.6 to 3.2 m.

The recently introduced Cat PF HD Line Pan for armored face conveyors is especially designed for heavy-duty longwall applications with demanding conditions. The new pan is the most robust and reliable Cat line pan, lasting up to two times the life of corresponding PF5 and PF6 pans.

The exhibit also previewed the Cat HTD4100 High Torque Drive System for longwall armored face conveyors. The drive enables a higher level of automation for enhanced speed and torque control and real-time monitoring, and its modular design simplifies installation and maintenance. The converter-controlled torque motor offers fast response and precise control to reduce conveyor chain wear and failures.

Caterpillar also previewed its next generation roof support control, PMC-R 2.0. It is the successor to the very successful Cat PMC-R control unit. The new roof support control unit is designed to meet the automation needs of modern, high-performance longwall operations. Advanced microcontroller technology with increased computing power and enhanced communication capabilities offers improved functionality to control roof supports in a self-advancing longwall system. The new controller also features enhanced serviceability.

Caterpillar and Cat dealers have created a one-of-a-kind, on-site support network for delivering expert service, integrated solutions, after-sales support, fast and efficient parts fulfillment, world-class remanufacturing services and more. Services now include Caterpillar Accredited Rebuilds (CAR) for longwall roof supports. The CAR program offers a like-new roof support with a new machine warranty and a new serial number, all at a fraction of the cost of a comparable new roof support.

Cat dealers also offer Customer Service Agreements, which deliver an innovative, end-to-end mining solution for the overhaul of underground mining equipment. Cat dealers offer field proven experience in the overhaul of underground mining equipment. The Customer Service Agreement is a guarantee of higher efficiency, delivered through superior quality parts and workmanship, resulting in reliable operation and extended durability.

At Katowice Mining Fair, Caterpillar and Cat dealers also showed their commitment to work alongside customers to improve performance across the operation, leveraging every longwall system component, tool and technology to help improve safety, efficiency and productivity.

Further information:
Caterpillar Inc.
www.cat.com

Caterpillar and Minetec, a wholly owned subsidiary of Codan Ltd., announce an agreement for the development and delivery of technologies targeting underground hard rock mining challenges. The collaborative work will deliver best-in-class site solutions for mining customers. The integrated solutions will be offered as part of Cat^® Mine­Star™.

Caterpillar expects the integrated solutions to focus on applications of underground mobile equipment and to enable expansion of MineStar capabilities through the use of improved high precision tracking and wireless communications, task management technology and proximity detection (Figure 1).

Caterpillar and Minetec are also pleased to announce that Newmont Mining Corporation will host the first trial of this technology at their Tanami operations in Northern Territory/Australia. Newmont will provide operational input from their underground hard rock mining operations.

Further information:
Caterpillar Inc.
www.cat.com

Peabody recently ordered a complete Cat^® longwall mining system for its North Goonyella Mine located in central Queensland/Australia. The Cat longwall system includes roof supports and a face conveyor for a 300 m face, shearer and beam stage loader (Figure 1). The system features advanced longwall automation technology to enhance safety and production.

Delivery of the system is planned for the second quarter of 2019. The regional Cat dealer, Hastings Deering, will provide technical support for installation and commissioning of the longwall and will provide operational support going forward.

North Goonyella produces premium coking coal via a Cat longwall system, which was instrumental in achieving record production from the mine in 2017. The decision to move to a new Cat system was driven by technological advances that enable automated shearer steering and face alignment, reduced exposure of operators to dust, and less maintenance.

The Cat EL3000 shearer for North Goonyella will be equipped with the proven Cat PMC™ Evo-S control system, intelligent software modules and advanced measuring technology. The automation package enables the shearer to be operated by a single operator using remote control. This package includes automation logic to minimize overload situations and diagnostic tools to maximize uptime (Figure 2).

Software tools and sensors in the gate ends and in the shield controllers enable advanced calculations for full 3D navigation and an accurate floor profile calculation. In total, the Cat automation package enhances safety and allows improved use of manpower, reduces coal dilution, enables faster haulage speeds, improves face management and increases life of all longwall equipment, including the face conveyor and roof supports.

Caterpillar will supply an efficient dust suppression system, designed using a holistic approach to mitigating operator dust exposure levels. With thorough understanding of dust generation processes in longwall operations and details defining the operating environment, Caterpillar engineers will design a state-of-the-art dust suppression system for North Goonyella.

Additionally, Caterpillar has developed a corrosion protection strategy to improve resistance to corrosion and to minimize maintenance activities in the North Goonyella mine environment. The 153 new Cat roof supports, e. g., will have specially coated rods used in the hydraulic legs, and susceptible components will be built from highly corrosion resistant materials.

Further information:
Caterpillar Inc.
www.cat.com/mining

Caterpillar and FTP Solutions have developed a cooperative agreement to deliver proactive monitoring and management of mining technology applications and the networks that these products depend on. FTP Solutions, based in Perth/Australia, currently offers products and services for monitoring and supporting site communications.

The collaborative work will make best use of the proprietary technology developed by each company to deliver best-in-class site solutions for mining customers. The integrated solutions will be offered as part of Cat® MineStar™ System.

In practice, Caterpillar and FTP Solutions have been working together to optimize wireless networks at mine sites running Cat Command, a capability set within Cat MineStar System, and will now apply these solutions to the networks installed at sites running other MineStar applications – fleet, terrain and detect. The effectiveness of the monitoring system and the collaborative effort is expected to deliver an improvement in the effort required to manage and maintain site networks. The sum of the efficiencies gained are expected to lower cost per ton.

Caterpillar and FTP Solutions started offering their joint services in Australia in 2017 and are expanding to all mining regions in 2018.

Further information:
Caterpillar Inc.
www.cat.com

Caterpillar recently completed an agreement to supply a complete Cat® longwall system to Bharat Coking Coal Limited (BCCL), a subsidiary of India’s largest coal producer, Coal India Ltd. The system will be delivered to the Moonidih mine in early 2019. The longwall production goal of the Moonidih XV Seam project is about 2.5 mt/a of coking coal. Support services will be provided by Tractors India Private Ltd. (TIPL), the authorized Cat dealer in North and East India and Bhutan. Moonidih is a region in Dhanbad district in the Indian state of Jharkhand.

Caterpillar is a member of INDU SCCL CGME Consortium, which was awarded the contract to execute the Moonidih XV Seam project of BCCL. Indu Projects Ltd. is the leader of the Consortium, and Singareni Collieries Company Ltd. (SCCL) and Caterpillar Global Mining Europe (CGME) are the other members.

The longwall system (Figure 1) will consist of 149 Cat roof supports, a Cat AFCPF6 armored face conveyor, a Cat BSLPF4 beam stage loader with integrated crusher, and a Cat EL2000 longwall shearer. The longwall system also includes a technology package for advanced longwall automation.

The EL2000 shearer incorporates all the features of the Cat longwall shearer range in a compact and rugged machine designed to meet the demands of high production in seams ranging from 1.80 to 4.50 m. High installed power is a main feature of the EL2000, available with as much as 750 kW. The haulage system is tailored to the needs of high-productivity medium-seam applications with up to 125 kW AC drives.

Further information:
Caterpillar Inc.
www.cat.com

The Underground Mining group within Caterpillar Inc. is preparing to ship a proof of concept battery electric LHD to a mine site located in Canada. The initial build and validation testing of this R1300G test unit began in early 2017 at the Caterpillar Peoria Proving Grounds and will continue through the fourth quarter and into 2018 moving muck in a Canadian mine.

The test machine (Figure 1) is a proof of concept for packaging and performance of a lithium based energy storage solution Caterpillar plans to bring to the LHD market. The Cat® R1300G proof of concept does not represent a final design that will go to market. After testing, Caterpillar will launch a full-fledged new product introduction program that follows a more in-depth, rigorous design and validation process.

“Our customers are planning for deeper mines with very high ambient rock temperatures where ventilation costs are pivotal to making the mine viable,” said Jay Armburger, product manager with responsibility for underground technology. “One means of reducing ventilation demand is through electrification of the mining equipment.”

With over 250 patents in the electric drive and energy storage fields, and products like the D7E dozer, F-Series asphalt pavers, 794 AC and 795F AC large mining trucks, the recently introduced 988K XE wheel loader, and even microgrid technology, Caterpillar has fully integrated electric drive train technology and components to bring to underground machines.

The program started with a full production study and data analysis of the diesel machine in order to set a baseline. Once this was accomplished, the transformation of the R1300G to a battery electric proof of concept began. The modifications included removing the engine, transmission and torque converter then reconfiguring the engine end frame to accommodate the battery boxes and electric motors. The result is a battery electric powertrain driving a conventional and mechanical drivetrain (drive shafts and axles).

The R1300G proof of concept is an older machine without the benefit of efficient electro-hydraulics. As a result, it will drive worst case scenario loads on the batteries. Of course the design of the new loader will enhance battery life through the use of load sensing hydraulics driven by piston pumps such as those on the new Cat R1700. The less refined proof of concept machine will yield solid understanding of heat generation and cooling needs, performance criteria, space claim and safety considerations in the day-to-day operation of the machine.

With the help of several customers who have visited the proof of concept and operated it at the proving grounds, Caterpillar is getting feedback to help drive the program forward. All of the customers who have visited the machine agree that pursuing a system that is rechargeable on the machine is the right path forward. Recharging on the machine prevents the mine from incurring additional infrastructure costs or from having to manage or store replaceable battery packs. Instead, Caterpillar is focusing on fast charging of the batteries on the machine such that an operator can take a quick break and come back to a charged machine. In addition to developing the LHD itself, the program has been prototyping a robust charging station. The technology behind the charging station is unique to Caterpillar and uses Cat components and technology.

As with all new product introductions, Caterpillar will listen to its customers and put new designs through their paces before releasing a machine. The chemistries and technologies behind battery development are evolving rapidly. Change is inevitable, and the development team will continue to evaluate these changing technologies to better serve mining customers.

“We tried hard to break this machine and technology before sending it to Canada in September,” Armburger said. “With the results we’ve seen so far, we’re confident this R1300G proof of concept is giving us the answers we need to develop a machine that is safe and lives up to the Cat brand promise of durability and reliability. In the end, Caterpillar is well positioned to develop an optimized machine – from power generation to tire rotation.”

Further information:
Caterpillar Inc.
www.cat.com

In August 2017 Caterpillar announced that B2Gold Corp., one of the fastest-growing gold producers in the world, has selected the company and Cat^® dealer Barloworld to supply 7 MW of solar power at the Otjikoto Mine in the Republic of Namibia (Figure 1).

The full system, including Cat photovoltaic (PV) solar modules and the Cat microgrid master controller (MMC), will be used to reduce reliance on a heavy fuel oil (HFO) power plant currently used to power the mining facility. Barloworld is supplying engineering, procurement and construction services for the project. Installation of the system is underway, with the completion of the project expected in early 2018.

“At B2Gold, we embrace environmental stewardship and social responsibility as key corporate priorities in doing business,” said Mark Dawe, Managing Director and Country Manager for B2Gold Namibia. “As one of the largest solar installations in Namibia, the facility at the Otjikoto Mine will help us to leverage a plentiful, renewable resource while improving the quality of life for nearby communities.”

Caterpillar’s solar PV system is powered by advanced thin-film solar modules that are setting the industry benchmark with improved performance over conventional silicon solar panels. Fully scalable and pre-engineered for quick and easy installation, the system offers reliable and predictable energy in all climates and applications with modules that are independently tested to pass accelerated life and stress tests beyond industry standards.

Caterpillar’s solar PV offering is a key component of the Cat Microgrid technology suite, an innovative lineup of power systems that adds environmentally friendly solar panels, state-of-the-art energy storage, and advanced monitoring and control systems to Caterpillar’s traditional line of reliable power generation equipment, including HFO, natural gas and diesel generator sets, switchgear and automatic transfer switches. The Cat Microgrid technology suite is designed to reduce fuel expenses, lower utility bills, decrease emissions, and reduce the total cost of ownership while increasing energy efficiency in even the most challenging environments.

A key differentiator in Caterpillar’s offering is the Cat MMC, which keeps loads continuously energized with high-quality power at the lowest cost. It manages the flow of power from every source in the system, including the main grid when connected. The Cat MMC determines optimum recharge times for the energy storage systems while managing power during times when solar energy is not available.

The MMC also uses Cat Connect technology for real-time collection and communication of on-site performance data that can be monitored and analyzed remotely.

B2Gold’s Otjikoto Mine is located in the region of Otjozondjupa approximately 300 km north of the capital city of Windhoek. The mine reported a record year in 2016, producing 166,285 ounces of gold. Caterpillar supplied the original 25 MW of power capacity to the Otjikoto Mine when it opened in 2014 through four Cat 12CM32 HFO medium-speed engines and three Cat 3516B high-speed generator sets.

Caterpillar is a leader in the power generation marketplace with power systems engineered to deliver unmatched durability, reliability and value. The company offers worldwide product support, with parts and service available globally through the Cat authorized service and dealer network. In addition, dealer service technicians are trained to service every aspect of Cat equipment.

Further information/Weitere Informationen:
Caterpillar Inc.
www.cat.com/powergeneration

Building on the solid legacy of the MD6420C,
the new Cat^® MD6310 blasthole drill offers substantial technology, efficiency and productivity improvements (Figure 1). A key advantage of the machine, Cat electronics deliver advanced troubleshooting for efficient drill operation and scalable automation. The building blocks include drill assist, semi-autonomous and remote control operation and machine health reporting to improve drilling accuracy, reduce fuel consumption and lower total cost of ownership.

Ideal for 12- and 15-m bench heights, the new MD6310 is application-built for efficient single pass drilling down to 13.7 m or 17.5 m, depending on mast configuration. Offering up to 30° angle holes for cast blasting, it is ideal for numerous mining applications. Reaching deeper hole depths than the MD6420C, the MD6310 better matches specific drill and blast requirements when working with electric rope shovels or other loading tools that require a tall and steep muck pile. Standard on the MD6310 is a drill depth indicator, auto level/retract and auto mast, all of which contribute to efficient cycle times.

Cat Command for drilling leverages remote and autonomous drill operation and serves as the off-board technology foundation of the drill. Scalable solutions allow customers to select the precise level of drilling automation to match operating needs. The Drill Assist option executes all major functions for single pass drilling. Drill Assist automatically adapts and adjusts drill power to match the ground conditions, which streamlines the entire drill cycle and lengthens bit life.

Cat Terrain for drilling guides the drill for up to four times greater pattern accuracy to ensure every hole is accurately placed and drilled to plan. The Terrain logging function ensures all production is timed, mapped and recorded, and the HP GPS navigation ensures accurate hole placement, proper hole depth calculated and adjusted based on altitude, and proper hole angle through orienting the drill heading and position.

The MD6310 offers semi-autonomous drilling of single row missions and remote control operation for remote operation missions. One remote operator station allows an operator to manage drill operations and run up to three machines simultaneously.

Standard Cat Product Link™ hardware provides machine health and drill data. VisionLink^® provides users access to customizable reports and mapping, giving users equipment data critical for better fleet management.

Offering superior performance in DTH and rotary drilling in soft, medium and hard rock applications, the versatile MD6310 drills up to 311 mm hole diameters. When equipped with the 13.7 m mast, it delivers up to 289.13 kN pull-down and hoist capacity to drill hole depths reaching 62.5 m. The 17.5 m mast delivers up to 382.5 kN pull-down and hoist capacity for drilling hole depths down to 48 m.

The flexible MD6310 features angle drilling to 30° from vertical in 5° increments. With its 14° approach angle for easy ramp access and loading, the drill boasts a rugged Cat excavator-type undercarriage equipped with either 600 mm triple grousers for hard rock applications or 750 mm triple grousers for working in soft rock. In addition, three-point oscillating suspension reduces the transfer of excessive torsional forces to the main frame.

Built for a variety of extremes, the MD6310 delivers reliable operation at elevations as high as 4,750 m and subzero temperatures reaching -40 °C , when equipped with a cold weather package. It is powered by a Cat C32 ACERT™ Tier 4 Final engine that produces 760 kW at 1,800 rpm, or a Tier 2 equivalent engine producing 770 kW at 1,800 rpm. The MD6310 is CE compliant, EAEU certifiable, CSA certifiable, and MDG15/MDG41 aligned.

The MD6310 compressors feature variable air control that can be adjusted to 50 % less volume to meet application requirements. Air flow modulation, load sensing hydraulics, and on-demand cooling fan improve fuel efficiency. A 42.2 m³/min at 34.4 bar compressor is available for DTH drilling, while rotary drilling compressor choices include units offering 56.6 m³/min at 8.6 bar or 73.6 m³/min at 7.6 bar.

Water injection with tank capacity of 1,514 l is standard on the MD6310 and is integral to Drill Assist for collaring the hole and dust suppression while drilling. A high volume water injection system is available with additional tank for total capacity 3,785 l. A 7,200-cfm dry dust collector with self-purging filters and dust chute with a clean-out door is optional. Standard static dust curtains on all four machine sides contain cuttings and dust, while hydraulically actuated dust curtain lifters for front and rear are available options.

The new FOPS cab offers 2.8 m² of floor space and rubber shock-mounts to absorb mechanical drilling vibration. Joystick controls for all drilling functions and dual 10 inch color touch screen displays improve operator productivity. A roof mounted HVAC system reliably provides clean air and efficiently cools or heats the cab.

Multiple cameras provide a full view of the pipe rack carousel/top drive operation and a 360° view from the operator’s seat to improve safety. The full-length driller window offers unobstructed view of the drill deck, while large cab windows surround the operator to improve work area visibility for safe machine movement.

A new variable grip hydraulic break-out wrench with additional clamping and break out force delivers hands-free pipe and bit changes from within the cab. For added protection, the machine features over 40 safety and conditional lock outs and warnings.

Further information/Weitere Informationen:
Caterpillar Inc.
www.cat.com/drills

The largest Russian coal producer, Siberian Coal Energy Company (SUEK), recently placed an order with the regional Cat® dealer, Vostochnaya Technica LLC (VT), for a complete armored face conveyor system to equip the company’s second 400 m longwall face (Figure 1). The longwall will operate in the mine named after V.D. Yalevskyi, Yalevskogo Seam #52 (formerly Mine #7), with commissioning planned for early next year.

In April, SUEK commissioned the first 400 m longwall face in Russia in the same mine, but in Seam #50, formerly called Kotinskaya. Previously, the widest longwall face in Russia was 300 m. The equipment for the face extension and the upgrade of the armored face conveyor (AFC) system was manufactured by Caterpillar and assembled and commissioned by VT.

The mine is located in the Kemerovo District in Siberia where SUEK operates ten longwall faces in their underground coal mines and two open pit coal mines. The longwall systems at the two faces average cutting heights of approximately 4 m.

The new system for Yalevskogo consists of a Cat AFC PF6/1142 with three drives of 1,000 kW each and Cat CST65 gear boxes, a Cat PF6/1342 beam stage loader with a Cat SK11/14 crusher and a belt return unit. The AFC system will go into operation with Cat roof supports.

Cat PF6 face and entry conveyers are especially designed for high performance longwalls.

With its patented trough concept and durable pan design, the Cat AFCPF6 face conveyor is particularly suited for applications in longwalls with extended face length and for panels with coal reserves of 10 mt and more. The innovative design of the PF6 line pan allows the separation of wear parts and structural parts. Very hard, wear-resistant materials are used for wear parts, while the structural parts are made of high-strength steel.

The recent order marks continued growth of SUEK’s Cat longwall equipment. The mining company currently operates four longwall faces with Cat roof supports, and it has nine complete Cat AFC systems. In 2016, SUEK produced more than 105 mt from its 14 longwall systems and 14 open pit mines.

The Russian Yalevskogo mine recently surpassed the world record for monthly coal production from a single longwall system. The mine produced 1,567 mt of raw coal in July 2017 (Figure 2). The mine, formerly known as Kotinskaya, surpassed its own national record and challenged the world record by mining 1,4073 mt in the month of May.

Further information:
Caterpillar Inc.
www.cat.com/mining