Rope shovel launched in oil sands

P&H Mining Equipment recently introduced the 4100C BOSS with Centurion AC drive to the Suncor oil sands mine north of Fort McMurray, Alta. This development resulted from a two-year project to integrate current AC technology with the advanced P&H Centurion supervisory control system. Mechanics and electricians from P&H MinePro Services Canada commissioned the new AC-drive power shovel in March 2007, and performance immediately exceeded expectations.

P&H DC technology and the P&H Centurion supervisory control system have been highly regarded for reliability, durability and performance value in severe-duty mining operations. Now, with recent advances in AC technology, P&H is offering an AC alternative featuring air-cooled drives specifically sized and packaged by partner ABB to meet mine-duty requirements. The control system remains Centurion, with motors designed and manufactured by P&H.

The Centurion AC option was developed in response to customer requests in recent years. AC has become more sought after at mines as plant equipment, haul trucks, and locomotives are now using this drive system. P&H project teams evaluated AC solutions that would offer reliability along with potential gains in material loading rates. Early results are very encouraging, with production rates over 50% above requirements and running averages of 96% availability.

Two additional 4100C BOSS units have been ordered and several others are under discussion. Get all the technical details at www.PHMining.com.