A mining giant will test-run new, environmentally friendly technology at one of its major operations.
BHP recently confirmed plans to trial a battery-electric Epiroc Boomer M2 jumbo at its Olympic Dam mine, 87km north of Woomera.
The 8.7-tonne and 14.5-metre long machine will be examined for efficiency, productivity and comfort over the next 12 months. Operating a fully electric 150 kilowatt (kW) traction motor and 150kW battery system is hoped to eliminate greenhouse gas emissions from diesel.
The employer operates a total of 16 Epiroc jumbos across the mine site, capable of drilling holes, carrying explosives and installing large bolts to stabilise mine walls. The fleet is also promised to reduce noise, vibrations and even eliminate heat.
“Collaboration with supply partners like Epiroc will be critical to developing the technology required to reduce emissions, while ensuring we continue to improve the safety and productivity of our operations. I cannot wait to see what this new, fully electric jumbo can do,” Olympic Dam mine general manager Andrew Harris said in a public statement.
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