Next Generation CAT 6060 hydraulic mining shovel features greater performance and increased durability

By MEq May 18, 2020 22:12

The next generation Cat 6060 hydraulic mining shovel features multiple design enhancements and new components that advance machine performance, durability, serviceability, and operator comfort. The new 6060 features updated engines, optimized hydraulics, heavy-duty structures and undercarriage, Cat electronics, and a state-of-the-art cab. The new shovel is also fully integrated into Caterpillar product support systems for efficient Cat dealer services.

The 600-tonne class mining shovel has a bucket payload of about 61 tonnes (67 tons) per pass in both face shovel and backhoe configurations. The 6060 is an efficient 4-pass match with the Cat 793 mining truck and 5-pass match with the Cat 794 AC mining truck.

Twin Cat 3512E engines are optimized for high performance, fuel-efficient operation and increased durability. For North America, the engines are equipped with a maintenance-free diesel oxidation catalyst emissions control system, do not use diesel exhaust fluid (DEF) and comply with U.S. EPA Tier 4 Final regulations. The updated engine design boosts reliability and extends time between overhauls by 10 percent. The efficient engine and optimized hydraulics enable 10 to 15 percent better fuel efficiency compared to the previous face shovel model, with 3 to 5 percent greater efficiency for the backhoe configuration. For reduced maintenance, engine oil and filter change intervals are doubled to 1,000 hours.

Structural, undercarriage, and slew ring upgrades help maximize uptime and productivity and lower cost per ton. To boost longevity, the Cat undercarriage features heavy-duty rollers, idlers and tracks, along with a revised track tensioning system. The superstructure frame, face shovel and backhoe attachment structures have been redesigned to reduce structural repair and extend service life via increased plate thicknesses and geometrical improvements. The slew ring design extends component life with a triple-race roller bearing and sealed internal gearing.

The 6060 features a new, state-of-the-art cab and operator station with industry-leading visibility provided by the large floor window and expansive windshield and side windows. Unrestricted lines of sight to the crawler tracks and pit floor aid the operator when repositioning the shovel and when loading trucks.

The pneumatically cushioned operator seat can be heated and ventilated. It has integrated joysticks and is multi-adjustable to offer the optimal ergonomics. The innovative cab design also includes two additional seats: a full-size seat and laptop desk for a trainer and a fold-up seat for an observer. The three-seat cab design is the first in this size class of shovels. Improved sound suppression on the power module keeps spectator sound levels low, while the sound suppressed cab provides a quiet working environment for the operator.

The first of several features within the available Operator Assist suite, Enhanced Motion Control is standard on the shovel. Enhanced Motion Control improves machine controllability and loading efficiency while reducing linkage and cylinder mechanical contact. The machine’s five-circuit hydraulics design allows simultaneous control over two cylinder motions, two travel motions and swing to boost digging and loading efficiency.

The next generation design helps improve service and maintenance efficiency by offering more room inside the service compartment and easy ground-level accessibility to the service station. Integration of Cat hoses in the design allows for local hose sourcing, while improved hose and component organization further reduces machine downtime.

Sensors located throughout the 6060 monitor operating data, record faults and give audible and visual notifications of issues to the operator. Standard for the first time on the 6060, Product Link Elite enables data communication for remote machine health monitoring.

The 6060 comes ready to accept Cat MineStar Solutions, a comprehensive suite of mining technologies geared to enhance mine safety, improve efficiency and reduce operating costs. In addition to the next generation diesel-powered 6060, Caterpillar continues to offer the electrically powered 6060 AC FS (face shovel) for mines optimized for such machines.