Ulan was the first mine to trial the prototype vehicle, developed from the 130LHD and scheduled for commercial release in August.
The trial’s purpose was to get some miles on the machine in real application. When the trial is completed VA Eimco will seek feedback from operators and maintenance personnel to make changes to the vehicle to ensure user friendliness.
The ED10 features a 30% increase in load capacity and a 50% jump in horsepower compared to its predecessor. The vehicle’s engine also differs with a direct injected turbo-charged Caterpillar 3126 TA engine boasting 170kW @ 2400rpm power fitted.
Ulan has incorporated the prototype into their fleet since March, utilising the vehicle for hauling supplies, trailers and longwall equipment around the mine.
“It has been as reliable as the other 130’s (VA Eimco EJC130 LHDs) in our fleet, which is an endorsement in itself because they are an excellent machine,” Ulan Coal mine mechanical engineer Andrew Esdaile said.
“Operators always request more performance from underground diesel equipment, so they love the power in this prototype,” Esdaile said.
Esdaile’s only complaint was the solid fill tyres fitted to the prototype machine, which had caused some operator discomfort with a rough ride experienced.
VA Eimco have carried out tests utilising the lower density fill (8 durometer as opposed to the present 28 durometer initially used). The fill Arnco Supaflex will duplicate pneumatic tyre ride characteristics.
“The machine has been reliable and virtually trouble free. There has been a couple of teething problems with engine shut down issues, but VA Eimco are on top of them and I am sure the first production version will have all them ironed out,” he said.
Safety issues have also been addressed with the new design introducing a larger cab for operator ergonomics, as well as the use of ALPHA low aspect ratio tyres to increase stability whilst carrying loads. Diesel particulate filtration is also available.
The vehicle will be targeted at hire contractors, new mines and mines which wish to increase machine capacity.
