Atlas Copco has launched its first battery-driven product for mining and underground. When it comes to safety for its operators, the Scooptram ST7 Battery has been developed to meet and exceed environmental standards and modern mining safety requirements.
“Traditionally, underground mobile equipment in the mining sector has relied on diesel engines which release emissions. Those emissions must be ventilated via costly systems,” said Andrew Lyon, General Manager - Atlas Copco Canada.
There are already electric scoops in underground mines, but these units have to be tethered via an electric cable. Thus, they have limited range and other operating challenges.
As the trend for deeper mines continues and mining companies seek to gain more control over their operations, the Scooptram ST7 Battery answers this challenge with automated functions. For example, the ability to control multiple loaders from a safe, remote location, planning and repeating the perfect production cycle every time.
This initiative to create battery-operated equipment has been driven by new developments in battery technology. This has made it possible to create powerful and productive equipment with zero emissions. The Scooptram ST7 Battery is the first step in powering heavy, mobile equipment underground and in the future there may be a broader range of battery-powered equipment including scoops, trucks and drills.
"All the obvious benefits with battery power adds up to something that might not be as obvious, like a reduced environmental footprint, higher worker satisfaction, and a better standing in the community," said Erik Svedlund, Product Manager - Electric Vehicles - Underground Material Handling.
