Inspenet, October 9, 2023.
At the Sunrise Dam gold mine in Australia, testing is underway with the TH665B , a large battery-electric truck designed for mining operations in underground mines. The company that manufactures it is called Sandvik and promotes it as the largest truck in the world in its category.
TH665B: The electric truck that attracts the attention of the mining industry
The Sandvik TH665B stands out for its imposing size and its ecological approach, according to its manufacturers. It has dimensions of 11.6 meters long, 3.5 meters wide and 3.6 meters high and has a loading capacity of 65 metric tons.
Beyond its transport capacity, the highlight of its technical specification is its internal technology, as it is equipped with a lithium-ferrophosphate battery and its electric propulsion system provides 630 kW (858 hp) of power, which positions it as an alternative to reduce dependence on diesel vehicles in the industry. In addition, this search for alternatives has also led to considering options such as the use of hydrogen .
Manufacturers claim it is the largest battery-electric truck designed for underground mining worldwide. Although it holds this impressive title, its main objective is not only to appear in the Guinness Book of Records, but to provide mining companies with a sustainable transportation option that contributes to the reduction of their environmental impact . In addition, it seeks to improve working conditions in mining sites.
“In addition to producing zero diesel emissions underground and generating 80% less heat, TH665B is expected to be up to 25% faster on a 1:7 ramp than regular diesel trucks“, defends the firm. According to Darren Kwok, a Barminco executive, these qualities make the truck particularly valuable in underground places like Sunrise Dam: “Battery electric vehicles not only have the potential to reduce CO 2 emissions, they can improve the environment for workers and boost efficiency“.
Currently in testing
This vehicle has reached a crucial stage in its development. Although it is not a recent novelty, since Sandvik unveiled it in early 2022 and offered a preview of its capabilities during the Sydney International Mining and Resources Conference a year ago. Now, he has taken an important step forward as he faces his real test on the grounds of the Sunrise Dam mine.
“The data we gain from seeing the prototype interacting with Australian conditions will be invaluable as Sanvik continues to develop its battery-electric range and move into commercial production ,” reflects Andrew Dawson, charging line manager and Sandvik transport. The tests started last September and have been possible thanks to an agreement between the vehicle manufacturer itself, the owner of the AngloGold Ashanti mine and Barminco.
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