Tools of the Trade Fall 2023

DRÄGER’S NEW CONNECTED GAS DETECTOR WITH NEW CATEX SENSOR
Reliable warnings against gas-related hazards play an essential role in keeping people safe in the workplace. The X-am 2800 multi-gas detector simultaneously measures up to four gases. Users can choose sensors for flammable gases and vapors, as well as oxygen, carbon monoxide, hydrogen sulfide, nitrogen dioxide, and sulfur dioxide. The X-am 2800 is optimized for use with the cloud-based software solution, Dräger Gas Detection Connect. The data recorded by the device can be transferred directly via Bluetooth to a smartphone, and then to the Dräger Gas Detection Connect Cloud. For efficient fleet management, the data can also be transferred directly to Gas Detection Connect using the Dräger X-dock test station to give users secure access to the data at any time through an internet browser.

Seequent, The Bentley Subsurface Company, recently announced the release of SLOPE3D, an advanced slope stability analysis tool that empowers geotechnical engineers and engineering geologists to design safer slopes. Building on the capabilities of GeoStudio’s trusted 2D SLOPE/W product, SLOPE3D is an intuitive limit equilibrium solution for analyzing rock and soil slopes in mining and civil projects, for example, hillslopes, open pit mines, and engineered structures such as dams and levees.
Chris Kelln, Director, Technical Solutions for GeoStudio, said, “SLOPE3D combines the most up-to-date research on 3D slope analysis techniques with the capabilities in SLOPE/W, a trusted tool for assessing 2D slope stability for over 30 years, providing a practical approach for capturing slope failure mechanisms for simple to complex geotechnical models.”

KOMATSU’S 980E-5SE ULTRA-CLASS ELECTRIC DRIVE MINING TRUCK OFFERS THE HIGHEST-IN-CLASS HORSEPOWER AVAILABLE
The economics of surface mining require the highest production at the lowest lifetime cost per ton (CPT). By combining outstanding build quality with multiple features designed to improve fuel efficiency and reduce downtime, the 4,400- HP Komatsu 980E-5SE electric drive mining truck offers increased speed on grade in deep pit applications. The truck’s redesigned ergonomic automotive-style cab works to increase operator comfort and lessen driving fatigue. Leveraging Komatsu’s electric drive truck experience, the 980E-5SE offers the highest-in-class horsepower available on an ultra-class truck. Engineered to promote increased productivity and a reduced carbon footprint, the 980E-5SE’s electric drive means fewer mechanical components, less maintenance and potentially reduced life cycle costs.
www.komatsu.com/products/trucks/electric-drive-mining-trucks/980e-5se

MICHELIN® X MINE® L4** TIRE DELIVERS FIRST RADIAL CONSTRUCTION DESIGNED TO BOOST PRODUCTIVITY OF THE WORLD’S LARGEST WHEEL LOADER
Michelin has introduced the 70/70R57 MICHELIN® X MINE® L4** tire, its newest offer in earthmover tires for the Komatsu WE2350/P&H L2350 large wheel loader used in surface mining. The 70/70R57 MICHELIN X MINE L4** radial tire delivers improved mobility and productivity thanks to three times the tramming speed of the competitor tire. It also does not require chain fitments on the rear axle due to its robust radial design, resulting in reduced tread wear, an optimized and even footprint, less deformation of the contact patch on the ground, and an overall life expectancy increase of 50 per cent or more.
“The new 70/70R57 MICHELIN X MINE L4** tire builds on our history of innovation with the first radial tire for the world’s largest wheel loader, providing a step-change in the mines’ productivity, while also contributing to their safety and sustainability,” said Adam Murphy, Senior Vice President for Michelin Mining.

BRIGADE FUSION TECHNOLOGY PREDICTS HIGH RISK EVENTS
Brigade Fusion uses sensor fusion technology to combine Brigade’s range of safety devices, including its 360-degree camera and radar obstacle detection, with M2M RTLS (Real Time Location System) technology. This allows the system to predict high risk events, providing the operator with appropriate and prompt alerts and, if required, signal the machine to prevent movement, slow down or stop entirely if its operator is unable to react in time.
Warren Di Marco, CEO of Brigade Electronics Canada, said, “The solution is a result of extensive research and development bringing together third-party technology with Brigade’s range of high-quality safety devices to create the ultimate safety solution for worksites. For operators, it provides a very robust layer of protection and additional peace of mind.”

CATERPILLAR INTRODUCES NEW COMPACT ENERGY STORAGE SYSTEM
Earlier this year, Caterpillar Inc. announced the introduction of Cat® Compact ESS, a new mobile battery energy storage system that supplements traditional mobile power solutions to reduce noise and enable deployment of renewable energy sources. Additionally, customers using efficiency gains to minimize fuel usage can reduce fuel costs, associated maintenance requirements and greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions when compared to continuous generator set usage.
Based on expected power needs, the Cat Compact ESS modules are ideal for equipment charging stations, offices, auxiliary buildings and security systems at construction, mining, oilfield, and pipeline worksites; remote agriculture operations such as irrigation; outdoor concerts, golf tournaments and other special events; and emergency response and other temporary power applications.
https://www.cat.com/en_US/products/new/power-systems/electric-power/microgrid.html