At MINExpo 2024, Liebherr presented a series of groundbreaking developments, including its latest 70-ton dozer, the PR 776 G8, the R 9400 E 350-ton electric excavator, and its inaugural autonomous battery-electric T 264 haul truck. The company also showcased its expanded technology offerings, such as IoMine and the LRT 1100-2.1 rough-terrain crane. A notable feature of the exhibit was Liebherr’s Innovation Lab, which introduced pioneering concepts across various product segments, including the dynamic charging and power transfer solution known as Liebherr Power Rail.
Liebherr Power Rail is designed with a lightweight electric rail infrastructure that incorporates an interoperable and minimally invasive side-arm current collector. Building on the success of the Liebherr Trolley Bar already in use at VA Erzberg iron ore mine in Austria, this innovative system aims to enhance productivity and facilitate the swift transition to zero-emission fleets.
According to Liebherr, the Power Rail system is adaptable to various truck classes and can be installed quickly, reducing costs associated with traditional dynamic charging technologies. It promises speeds of up to 55 km/h (34 mph) on a 10% incline—1.8 times faster than existing solutions—and offers a simple relocation process, minimizing disruption on haul roads with its switchback capability. Maintenance is also straightforward.
Dynamic power transfer marks a significant move toward zero-emission mining sites. Liebherr is not alone in this endeavor; other companies are also exploring similar technologies. Caterpillar has announced its Dynamic Energy Transfer (DET) system, set to be trialed on diesel-electric and battery-electric trucks at BHP operations, while BluVein offers its BluVein Hammer™ as part of its electrified rail solutions.
In addition to Power Rail, Liebherr continues to support traditional pantograph trolley systems across its entire truck range, including the new T 264 battery-electric model and other diesel-engine models like the T 274 and T 284. Liebherr’s trolley projects include successful implementations at sites such as VA Erzberg and FQM Cobre Panama. The company is also preparing to supply four T 284 trucks and the associated trolley infrastructure for a pilot project at a large copper mine in Chile, expected to begin operations in 2025.
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