ENVIRONMENT

Time for a brake

A FAULTY air conditioning compressor on a haul truck led to multiple brake failures that could have ended in a collision at a New South Wales open cut coal mine.

An air conditioner compressor belt drive guard was rubbing on the discharge fitting of the compressor.

An air conditioner compressor belt drive guard was rubbing on the discharge fitting of the compressor.

As the haul truck was leaving a dump and travelling down a ramp, the operator applied the retarder, however, it had no effect.

The operator then tried the service brake, which also had no effect.

The operator noticed there was no air pressure indicated.

The emergency brakes were then applied, which slowed the truck and helped it safely negotiate a bend.

The air pressure returned, and the brakes subsequently worked.

The operator then continued to a digger but noticed the brakes were inoperable again, so proceeded to park up and report the incident.

The NSW Resources Regulator said an investigation found an air conditioner compressor belt drive guard was rubbing on the discharge fitting of the compressor.

"The fitting failed, resulting in loss of system air pressure and loss of the service brakes," it said.

"Under no circumstances should a truck continue to be operated following the failure of a safety-critical system such as braking. Vehicles should be safely parked-up following an incident and not operated until the cause is identified and problem rectified."

A growing series of reports, each focused on a key discussion point for the mining sector, brought to you by the Mining Monthly Intelligence team.

A growing series of reports, each focused on a key discussion point for the mining sector, brought to you by the Mining Monthly Intelligence team.

editions

Mining Magazine Intelligence Future Fleets Report 2024

The report paints a picture of the equipment landscape and includes detailed profiles of mines that are employing these fleets

editions

Mining Magazine Intelligence Digitalisation Report 2023

An in-depth review of operations that use digitalisation technology to drive improvements across all areas of mining production

editions

Mining Magazine Intelligence Automation Report 2023

An in-depth review of operations using autonomous solutions in every region and sector, including analysis of the factors driving investment decisions

editions

Mining Magazine Intelligence Exploration Report 2023 (feat. Opaxe data)

A comprehensive review of current exploration rates, trending exploration technologies, a ranking of top drill intercepts and a catalogue of 2022 Initial Resource Estimates and recent discovery successes.