Controlling costs and remaining competitive and financially viable are constant challenges for operators of underground hard rock mines. Making intensive use of new technology is the logical starting point for making every aspect of a mine’s daily operations more efficient and cost effective.

To support the local market with these challenges Komatsu recently launched their range of underground hard rock equipment in Southern Africa.

LHD’s are the mainstay of any underground operation

Engineered for the most demanding mining environments, the Komatsu WX07 LHD is a heavy-duty, seven-tonne diesel-powered machine designed for especially small, narrow vein applications with limited manoeuvring space. 

“The low waste, small footprint ethos of narrow vein mining aligns perfectly with the environmental, social and governance (ESG) conscious direction in which the South African mining sector is heading. The introduction of the Komatsu WX07 Loader allows small and narrow vein mines promising advancements in technology, safety, productivity, and operator comfort,” says Komatsu’s Senior Technical Sales Representative, Jaime Harripersad.

The loader is one of three products that signal Komatsu’s entry into African underground hard rock mining – a move that will support the large-scale extraction of minerals required to facilitate the world’s transition to a low-carbon future.

The LHD has achieved much success in North and South America and parts of Central Asia for its superior performance. Industry comparisons show that the WX07 has a breakout force up to 10% greater than other machines in its class, along with a 15% advantage in operating speed when fully loaded.

Key benefits

• Robust, fully enclosed cab and intuitive controls

With safety always top of mind, the WX07 has a robust, fully enclosed cab to protect operators from overhead hazards and the harmful effects of occupational dust and noise. With double curved glass for 360° visibility and unobstructed sightlines, as well as ample headroom for ease of entry and exit, the cab has been designed with safety and comfort in mind. The control panel for the WX07 is designed to be easy-to-use and informative. All the data and information your operators need to perform, such as autogenerated diagnostic measurements, adjustments, and live data readouts, are readily accessible on a sleek touch screen control panel.

Another important safety feature is an open-door interlock, which automatically activates the brakes, deactivates the boom, bucket, and steering function as soon as the cab door is opened.

• Z-link design, new powertrain, and large fuel tank 

Turning to productivity, the machine sets itself apart with its new Z-link design, which enables optimum penetration and rapid bucket filling, giving it the fastest boom cycle in its class. A new and simplified powertrain also elevates productivity and reduces costs.

The powertrain consists of a Cummins Tier 3 215 horsepower engine and is paired with a Dana electronic transmission and C3000 torque converter. This is a combination that delivers high levels of productivity and lower operating costs. Time spent refueling is also kept to a minimum with the WXO7’s 243-litre fuel tank, which significantly increases operating hours and reduces refueling downtime.

• Ground-level maintenance

Ground-level maintenance is another user-friendly advantage. To provide easy serviceability within the confines of narrow vein mining operations, it ensures that most vital components are well within reach. On-board data monitoring and management also result in improved servicing, troubleshooting, training, and performance.

The robust underground hard rock range, including the WX07 have been built in line with Komatsu’s Dantotsu (Japanese for unique and unrivalled) philosophy – to create value through manufacturing and technology innovation to empower a sustainable future where people, businesses and the planet thrive together.