InfraStructures - November 2008 - MTU at MINExpo: Showcasing Safety, Reliability and Fuel Efficiency

MTU at MINExpo: Showcasing Safety, Reliability and Fuel Efficiency

MTU displayed its innovative line of power solutions for the mining industry at the MINExpo exhibition, that took place on September 22-24 in Las Vegas. The engine line up included all three configurations (12, 16 and 20 cylinders) of the latest generation of its Series 4000 engine family, along with a Series 2000 industrial engine and an Underground Optimized Series 900 engine.

The latest version of the Series 4000 is EPA Tier 2 certified and has a revolutionary thermal protection system that is unrivalled in this segment. Using a liquid-cooled exhaust system, it keeps the surface temperature of the engine below 200°C, preventing any oil or diesel fuel that might leak onto the engine surface, from igniting due to engine heat. This significantly reduces the risk of fire hazard for mining trucks, enhancing operator safety and protecting the customer's investment.

The new Series 4000 also boasts greater power density and reliability with ratings of 2250 hp, 3000 hp and 3750 hp. In addition, they have been designed to rigorous standards and depending on the specific mining application, have an average life of 20 000 - 40 000 hours before first overhaul.

Another benefit of the Series 4000 engine series is that it is a true engine family. A single standardized set of parts is used in each of the three engine cylinder sizes, whether they are operating in excavators, haul trucks or front-end loaders, and whether they are operating at high altitude or sea level. This allows customers to reduce inventory costs by stocking one set of spare parts instead of several sets based on the types of engines in use.

In addition to the Series 4000, the Series 2000 is also a mainstay of MTU's portfolio of products serving the mining industry. Used extensively in North American quarries, 12 and 16 cylinder Series 2000 engines power 65 and 100 t trucks with a fuel consumption rate that is the best in the industry.

MTU's product line for the mining industry also includes its Underground Optimized engines, designed specifically to meet the needs of underground mining operations. These engines are MSHA and CANMET certified, provide optimal ventilation rates and are extremely clean-running. Most importantly, they are optimized to meet the unique needs of underground mining applications.

Source: MTU Detroit Diesel, Inc.