Gold miner AngloGold Ashanti has inked an agreement with mining contractor Barminco and equipment supplier Sandvik Mining and Rock Solutions to test the largest battery-electric underground mining truck at the Sunrise Dam operation, in Western Australia.
The Sandvik TH665B made its debut in Brisbane earlier this year and was developed on the back of more than 40 years of electrification experience. The truck uses lithium-iron-phosphate battery technology. The electric driveline delivers 630 kW (858 hp) of continuous power, allowing for high acceleration and shorter cycle times.
Besidesproducing zero diesel emissions underground and generating 80% less heat, the Sandvik TH665B is expected to be up to 25% faster on a 1:7 ramp than regular diesel trucks.
“We’re delighted to be working with AngloGold Ashanti and Barminco on these trials. The data that we gain from seeing the prototype interacting with Australian conditions will be invaluable as Sandvik continues to develop its battery-electric range and as the Sandvik TH665B moves into the commercial production phase,” said Sandvik business line manager for load and haul Andrew Dawson.