Cat debuts first diesel electric underground LHD
North American Mining Magazine- Feb. 2024
Built on the platform of its most popular underground loaders, the new R2900 XE is the first Cat diesel electric underground LHD. It’s a productive, powerful, reliable machine built to meet the underground mining industry’s need for bigger payloads, faster loading and reduced emissions, according to the company.
Its powerful diesel electric drive engine is EU Stage V compliant, and it offers the power to match its class-leading 18.5-tonne. The R2900 XE is highly productive, with smooth and quick machine responses combined with improved digging and tramming performance. Employing electric drive components reduces fuel burn and improves productivity – helping mines reduce greenhouse gas emissions and carbon footprint.
Benefits include:
Superior Productivity – Thanks to a number of new and improved features, the R2900 XE delivers a +20% increase in productivity (compared to R2900G).
Greater Than 35% Improved Lift Breakout Force – The R2900 XE employs a high efficiency electric drive system and is powered by a quiet, reliable and durable Cat C15 engine.
Reduced Maintenance and Repair – A number of features and improvements contribute to ensuring the R2900 XE is easier and less expensive to maintain, driving down cost per ton and increasing availability.