Expanding its portfolio of electrification, automation and digitalisation solutions for the mining industry, Siemens introduces a new drive system for underground mining vehicles, providing a dedicated power range and performance for higher levels of productivity, safety and return on investment.

The high-efficiency electric drive system includes Siemens propulsion and auxiliary inverters, established control hard- and software as well as optional energy storage solutions. At the heart of Siemens? drive train is the highefficient PEM Motor typically connected to the wheels with a planetary type gearbox.

This PEM motor, which is suitable for difficult mining conditions achieves a higher efficiency of up to 97 per cent in operating-speed range compared to the efficiency of standard induction motors of similar size. With these components working together, the haul truck?s braking energy can be intelligently harnessed and stored for electric propulsion.

?To mine raw material, which is situated much deeper below the surface, the current trend is shifting from surface mining to underground mining, thus requiring marketspecific solutions that not only ensure a high yield of return on investment, but also ensures added safety for the health of miners,? said Daniel Robertson, Business Manager, Mobile Mining, Siemens.