Mining_Methods_UnderGround_Mining - Mining and Blasting

The Minetruck MT5010 exits from the Stawell portal after a 9 km uphill drive.
a tight turning circle, saving on backing
out trucks in the limited space underground,
and is a lot less tedious to
drive, being much faster than the old
machines.
The engine on the MT5010 is electronically
controlled for maximum fuel
efficiency, minimum exhaust emissions
and continuous diagnostic monitoring.
This control system, along with an electronic
transverter, provides smooth and
precise gear changes.
In addition to the selection of Cummins
as the engine supplier, Atlas Copco
has put the MT5010 through a series of
more than 40 performance-enhancing
upgrades to the engine, powertrain, cab,
suspension, structural body, and systems,
which dramatically increase engine and
component life. Servicing is fast and
simple, thanks to easy access to filters,
test points, and other parts which require
regular maintenance.
Continuous support
The routine performed by the mine’s
maintenance team includes checking
main functions after each 12-hour shift,
as well as more thorough services at 125
hours, and the recommended intervals
at 250 hours.
The MT5010 trucks, despite their
arduous working situation, are acknow-
ledged by Stawell management as being
the best performing trucks on site, with
the highest t/km and excellent availability.
As a result, the MT5010 trucks now
constitute 70% of the hauling fleet.
Where problems have been experienced,
the mine knows it can rely on
support from Atlas Copco.
If they need a part, or a question an-
swered, Atlas Copco provides a true,
24-hour service, seven days a week, and
treats every enquiry with the correct degree
of urgency.
MelBOurne, auSTralia
A technical training course on the
MT5010 was conducted at the mine by
Atlas Copco to further enhance the expertise
of the maintenance staff. Many
of the participants reported back that
it was the best on-site training they had
ever received from any equipment sup-
plier, observing that Atlas Copco understands
that aftermarket service and support
is an important complement to any
sale.
Future plans at Stawell include further
exploration and deeper development
work. In the next four to five years it is
planned to increase the mining depth to
at least 1,300 m.
acknowledgements
Atlas Copco is grateful to the management
and staff at Stawell mine for
their assistance in the production of
this article.
underground mining methods 107