Atlas Copco gave attendees a sneak peek at the world’s largest articulated underground mining truck, the Minetruck MT85, at MINExpo in Las Vegas, September 24-26. The Atlas Copco Minetruck MT85, has been designed for demanding conditions with focus on safety, ergonomic and operators comfort to maximize productivity in underground haulage.

Ben Thompson, Product Manager at Atlas Copco’s Underground Rock Excavation Division, explains: "This truck is designed to fit the same drift dimensions of 50 and 60 tonne class trucks with one essential difference. It will haul 85 tonnes which gives a tremendous productivity boost in terms of fewer trucks and tonnes/kilometers per hour."

Thompson emphasizes that the Minetruck MT85 is also fast and highly maneuverable on ramps and inclines. "This means that fewer cycles need to be made which, in turn, reduces the cost of transport in relation to the amount of material hauled. Not only that," he adds, "the new MT85 truck now gives mining companies a more cost effective way to haul ore in the mine. It makes it more attractive to go for deeper ore bodies by ramp instead of sinking a shaft."

Features and benefits

The Minetruck MT85 has high capacity (but fits in a small envelope) is 3.4 m wide and 3.5 m high, easily fitting into 6.0 x 6.0 m drifts. And despite its length (14.0 m), it has an impressive turning radius of 44 degrees which is largely thanks to its electro-hydraulic steering of the rear axle which gives maximum maneuverability.

Modularity and options

This truck also offers a high degree of modularity and options. The dump box can be tipped at the side of the vehicle as well as at the rear. There are also two tailgate configurations (hinged at top or at bottom), three engine power alternatives (535, 760 or 1 010 hp) as well as four wheel or six wheel drive to full fill different customer’s needs or mine requirements.

Launch dates and more information will be communicated during 2013.