Sandvik LH202 improves narrow-vein loading safety and productivity

By MEq September 26, 2017 20:40

Sandvik is introducing a new 3-tonne narrow-vein loader (LHD) that offers reliability, productivity and increased safety that has not previously been seen in its size class globally.

The new Sandvik LH202 loader is targeted for narrow-vein mining applications with tunnel widths between two and two-and-a-half meters. It has been designed to help reduce dilution and improve flexibility and operator safety when working in narrow-vein operations.

The LH202 is full of features to help mines maximize tonnes and minimize extraction costs. It has been engineered to optimize machine width, length and turning radius. Sandvik LH202 can reduce cost per tonne by up to 36% thanks to its reduced operating width and larger capacity compared to other loaders in the same size class.
“Due to its compact size and advanced transmission, Sandvik LH202 is both easy to drive and manoeuvre in confined spaces typical of narrow-vein tunnels”, says Kimmo Ulvelin, Product Line Manager, Narrow Vein & Low Profile loaders at Sandvik Mining and Rock Technology.

Ashleigh Braddock, Global Sales and Marketing Support Manager, Product Area Load and Haul at Sandvik Mining and Rock Technology, says an operator compartment located in the loader’s rear frame helps improve operator safety and comfort.

“With this safety design, we have moved the operator further away from falling rocks during bucket loading,” Braddock says. “Improved visibility and powerful LED lights help reduce collision risk while ground-level daily maintenance reduces risk of slips, trips and falls. Enhanced ergonomics in the operator compartment keeps the operator more comfortable during the shift, enabling to focus on production”.

With sustainable operation in mind, and to enable the use of Sandvik LH202 in markets with low engine emission requirements, the new loader will be available with either a standard Tier 2 engine or a lower-emission Tier 4 engine in the future.

The new Sandvik LH202 completes a comprehensive offering of Sandvik loaders engineered for narrow-vein operations. From Sandvik LH201, our smallest loader with a payload of one metric ton and capable of operating in tunnels as narrow as one-and-a-half meters, up to the Sandvik LH307, with a tramming capacity of 6.7 metric tons in tunnels that are greater than three meters wide, we offer a narrow-vein loader with an optimized capacity and envelope for your unique operation.