BHP has unveiled a fully electric jumbo at Olympic Dam to support the company’s target to reduce operational greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions, including by minimising reliance on diesel.
The 28.7 tonne, 14.5 metre-long battery-electric Epiroc Boomer M2 jumbo will be powered by a 150kW traction motor and 150kW battery system, eliminating GHG emissions from diesel. It will be tested for efficiency, productivity and comfort over the 12-month trial period.
Jumbos are used in underground mining development to drill holes, which are then loaded with explosives and open up new areas. Post-blasting jumbos install large bolts to stabilise mine walls. BHP currently operates 16 Epiroc jumbos at Olympic Dam.
The fully-electric Jumbo will also break new ground in its user experience by reducing noise and vibration, and eliminating heat and the emissions of diesel particulate matter.
This is an important milestone. Next up: electric loaders and trucks. Underground miners want no diesel fumes, the torque of electric, less heat, vibration and noise.
Mining equipment suppliers a year ago (lost ref) announced priority on u/g electrification, two years, ahead of above ground applications.
Ash
BHP Price at posting:
$43.89 Sentiment: Buy Disclosure: Held
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