Mine equipment makers increase production

Caterpillar Inc. of Peoria, Ill., is increasing production to meet customer needs during this unprecedented period of demand for both open pit and underground mining equipment. The company has already significantly increased production using 6 Sigma methodology. In addition, Caterpillar will deliver the first 793D production trucks to customers in October. The 220-tonne size class truck is being produced at Caterpillar’s Decatur, Ill., facility, which has recently upgraded facilities to improve production capacity and operating efficiencies. The 793D has five different configurations to suit different mining applications.

For 80 years, Caterpillar has been building the world’s infrastructure and, in partnership with its worldwide dealer network, is driving positive and sustainable change on every continent. With 2004 sales and revenues of $30.25 billion, Caterpillar is a technology leader and the world’s leading manufacturer of construction and mining equipment, diesel and natural gas engines and industrial gas turbines.

As a result of the strong commodity market, the demand for Bucyrus International Inc.’s equipment has increased so dramatically that the company is expanding its South Milwaukee manufacturing facilities, with new buildings and production equipment. The initial phase will include a 110,000-ft2 new facility for welding and machining components for large electric shovels and walking draglines.

The phased improvement program will cost about $95 million, with capital spent at an annual rate of approximately 5-6% of revenue. If the program is fully completed, approximately 200 new employees will be employed at the expanded facilities, and the electric shovels capacity will be doubled.

Bucyrus International, Inc. is a world leader in the manufacture of electric rope shovels, blasthole drills and draglines for the surface mining industry plus OEM quality parts, components, maintenance and support services for that equipment. The company is celebrating its 125th anniversary in 2005.