BELAZ is one of the first OEMs in the world to present a prototype of an all-electric mining dump truck, the BELAZ-7558E.
This is a completely new type of mining haul truck, featuring batteries instead of a diesel engine. The operation of such type of truck is economically profitable – the cost per ton is much lower compared to the traditional diesel-powered trucks of the same capacity. But, most importantly, this technology allows to completely avoid harmful emissions into the atmosphere and improve the carbon footprint on sites where these trucks will be utilised.
BELAZ has been working on this battery-powered dump truck concept for several years already, and an experimental prototype of this innovative machine was released at the end of last year. It was branded the 7558E Belaz truck.
The electric mining dump truck is based on the BELAZ-7558 family, with a payload capacity of 90 t and a nett weight of 76 t. It can reach a maximum speed of 64 km/h. This is the most compact model of all mining dump trucks of the world’s leading brands that are equipped with an AC/AC electromechanical transmission. With the drive train already electric, the challenge was basically to have enough energy storage capacity and controlling the energy.
The chosen battery type is lithium-nickel-manganese-cobalt-oxide batteries. They will be installed (on present production models) in the engine, alternator, fuel tank and cooling pack bay. In total there are 15 batteries with a combined energy capacity of 675 kWh. The rated power of the power plant is 640 kW.
The power reserve on a single charge will be at least two hours with a full load of 90 t and on uphill hauling on slope of no more than 10%. After several cycles “loading – transporting – unloading”, it will be necessary to recharge. The operating time of a dump truck between recharges depends on the operating conditions. With downhill hauling, a charge will last for 8 hours, if uphill hauling, a charge will last for two hours. Charging is quick, about 20 – 30 minutes is required for a full charge from a special recharging station. The manufacturer of the batteries installed on the prototype BELAZ-7558E is a South Korean company.
Prototype testing is expected to be completed during the last quarter of 2022. Production of this electric truck will start in 2023 already. According to marketing experts, BELAZ will be able to sell at least 20 such electric dump trucks annually at first.
The advantages of these dump trucks are:
- Economy – there are no costs for diesel fuel, engine oils, maintenance costs are reduced and productivity is increased;
- Environmental friendliness – complete absence of exhaust gases;
- Safety, since harm to the health of the driver is reduced by reducing noise and vibration.
Annual savings from the operation of BELAZ electric mining truck, taking into account the cost of energy and energy carriers, reducing the cost of its maintenance, delivery and storage of diesel fuel, will be about R1-million.