Electric load-haul-dump machines: real alternative for diesels?

CIM Journal, Vol. 4, No. 1, 2013

J. Paraszczak, M. Laflamme, and K. Fytas
Department of Mining, Metallurgical and Materials Engineering, Université Laval, Quebec City, QC

Diesel-powered loaders are a pillar of modern underground metal mining. As these mines are getting deeper and hotter and the emission regulations stricter, ventilation costs are soaring, affecting production cost. Also, the cost of diesel fuel is expected to rise. These may make the use of diesel engines more problematic. Electric load-haul-dump machines (LHDs) are an interesting alternative. This paper compares features and performance of diesel and electric, cable-powered LHDs. It overviews equipment offerings, and compares, analyzes and discusses technical parameters, operational problems and cost issues. The paper gives some conclusions about electric LHD applicability and performance, indicates possible applications, and suggests further research work.

Keywords: Underground mines, Diesel loaders, Electric loaders, Operational parameters, Performance, Cost, Comparison