Sandvik Mining has launched two new underground trucks in the market. The new TH550 and TH540 are the first in the underground mining world to offer energy-efficient and low-emission EPA Tier 4i/EURO Stage IIIB engines, according to Sandvik. The new TH550 and TH540 are based on “the old workhorses,” Sandvik T50 and T40.
The all-new TH trucks were born as a result of comprehensive research, customer feedback and modern thinking. One of the main advantages of these trucks, according to Sandvik, is the optional Tier 4i/IIIB engine that consumes less fuel, produces fewer emissions and has better torque characteristics for trucks than its predecessors. Currently, the TH550 and TH540 are the only trucks in the market available with these engines.
“If these engines were left running, for example, in the center of some large city, the exhaust fumes coming out of the engines would be cleaner than the air entering the engine’s intakes. These trucks can thus provide a healthier environment for all personnel working underground,” said Tomi Pikala, marketing support manager, Sandvik Mining.
While the Tier 4i/IIIB engines cut operational costs through lower fuel consumption, a substantial reduction in ventilation requirements provides even greater savings. Uptime hours are increased with practical, time-saving features such as a large tank capacity, centralized ground level maintenance and easily cleanable radiators. The new cooling system, even safer electrical wiring, new steering cylinders and durable tires, combined with the other new features, are designed to increase operating hours per year and extend the overall service life of the trucks.
