Tougher steel makes new Scooptram bucket stronger than ever
Miners in Sweden have put an upgraded version of the GET (Ground Engaging Tools) system, designed for Scooptram loaders, through rigorous testing – and the results are in. Thanks to a more resistant steel composition, the system’s service life has been extended by 30–40%.
A new upgrade to the GET system for underground loaders from Atlas Copco has been scooping up praise in Sweden following a recent field test. The GET bucket was tested for a period of 18 months at the Lovisa Mine, a zinc and lead operation in the mineral-rich Bergslagen region.
Johannes Turesson, Product Manager Parts & Kits, Atlas Copco, explains that it was the ideal testing ground due to the narrow 3.5 m wide drifts and steep, winding ramps with tight cornering. The big advantage of GET is that removable wear parts bolted onto the lip of the bucket can be easily replaced when worn.
"During the trial we confirmed all of our objectives with this new GET system. These include improved penetration of the muck pile, extended service life, easy maintenance, reduced downtime and total cost of ownership."
Quality steel, longer life
Loader buckets must be able to withstand heavy punishment during mucking out operations. Following extensive research, an upgraded, more robust steel composition has resulted in reduced wear and tear and 30–40% longer service life. The wear pattern is also more even than before. When servicing the new GET system, replacing parts, such as corner shrouds, can now be done in a fraction of the time compared with the welded wear parts of conventional buckets. Reduced downtime and cost saving were also achieved during the test.
GET gives better penetration meaning that less force is needed when attacking the muck pile. This cuts energy consumption, reduces wear on tires and improves the working environment. The GET bucket can be matched with Scooptram ST7 and Scooptram ST1030 loaders and will be successively available to all Scooptram models during 2016.
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