TRUCKS: SMS deploys largest Komatsu autonomous truck in Canada

[caption id="attachment_1003728303" align="aligncenter" width="463"] Komatsu’s largest autonomous haul truck is working at a Canadian mine. (Image: SMS Equipment)[/caption] ACHESON, Alta. – This month, SMS Equipment deployed the Komatsu 980E-4AT – the world’s largest autonomous Komatsu truck in commercial operation – to work at a Canadian mine. The Komatsu 980E-4AT is modeled after the proven workhorse 930E series.  This 400-tonne capacity truck has many of the same attributes, such as a simple and reliable hydraulic system design and proven GE drive system.  Fuel efficiency is maximized due to optimized air handling with two stage turbocharging on the Cummins 3500 hp SSDA18V170 engine. “The introduction of these 980Es into the AHS [autonomous haulage system] environment wouldn’t be possible without our customers and distribution partners. They’re a big reason why Komatsu has the most autonomous systems, in the most mines, hauling the widest variety of materials, in the world,” said Dan Funcannon, general manager, mining truck division, Komatsu America. Scott Schellenberg, senior manager, AHS at SMS said, “The addition of the 980E-4AT 400-tonne autonomous truck is a game changer for Komatsu and our customers, delivering even greater value in enhanced mine productivity.” Mike Brown, executive VP innovation and advanced technology, SMS said, “SMS Equipment continues to offer leading technology solutions for the mining industry by working closely with its OEM partners to deploy and support these technology programs such as autonomous haulage. We have invested heavily in developing an experienced team of autonomous mining specialists capable of supporting our customer’s needs from inception through to implementation and continuous improvement. “ The rapid increase in proposed autonomous projects will make Canada a global leader in autonomous adoption as Canadian mining companies focus on driving better efficiencies into their operations,” Brown promised. Watch this Komatsu AHS video to learn more about the technology behind the launch (available in English only)