The Elements of Innovation Discovered
The Elements of Innovation Discovered
Metal Tech News - September 18, 2024
The Cat Dynamic Energy Transfer was designed as an easily deployable system to deliver energy to both diesel-electric and battery-electric mining trucks while they are working.
An arm that can be installed on either side of multiple models is used to connect haul trucks to the Cat Dynamic Energy Transfer rail system.
To meet the immediate and long-term climate goals of mining companies around the globe, Caterpillar Inc. has introduced an innovative solution for charging haul trucks while they are on the move.
Much like the range anxiety preventing many drivers from making the switch to electric, concern over loss of productivity while a haul truck is idling at a charger is a major hurdle for transitioning mining operations from diesel to electric.
To overcome this hurdle, Caterpillar has introduced Cat Dynamic Energy Transfer (DET), a system developed by Caterpillar engineers that can deliver energy to both diesel-electric and battery-electric mining trucks while they are working.
"We believe Cat DET provides a technological leap for the mining industry," said Caterpillar Resource Industries Group President Denise Johnson. "Our team of innovators designed this system to provide immediate benefit to miners who want to lower their operating costs and greenhouse gas emissions today while also creating flexibility for the future."
The Cat DET has three primary parts – a power module that converts energy from a mine site's power source, an electrified rail system to transmit the energy, and a machine system to transfer electricity to the truck's powertrain.
Caterpillar has designed the rail system to be highly deployable and customizable to mine site layouts, including high-speed and curved haul roads, enabling higher productivity.
The machine system includes a connecting arm that can be installed on either side of multiple truck models, providing mine operators with additional customization options.
An arm that can be installed on either side of multiple models is used to connect haul trucks to the Cat Dynamic Energy Transfer rail system.
Caterpillar says Cat DET can be installed at already operational mines that are adding electrified models to its fleet, as well as new mines coming online during the energy transition.
To meet the changing needs as mines mature and mining fleets change, Cat DET was designed to be easily moved or expanded for maximum mine site coverage.
"We know customers need choices to fit their unique site objectives," said Johnson. "We are proud to deliver an innovative, integrated solution that can support their needs of today and those of the future."
Cat DET will also integrate with the Cat MineStar Command for hauling solutions, merging autonomy and electrification technologies to provide a holistic site solution.
"We believe mine sites will benefit from enhanced efficiency with the integration of electrification and automation," said Caterpillar Senior Vice President Marc Cameron. "When combined, these technologies will help miners achieve production targets while simultaneously managing energy demands."
The Cat DET system will be on display at Caterpillar's MINExpo 2024 exhibit at Booth 6333 in Central Hall of the Las Vegas Convention Center from Sept. 24 to 26.
With more than 16 years of covering mining, Shane is renowned for his insights and and in-depth analysis of mining, mineral exploration and technology metals.
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