Caterpillar has announced its R2900 XE Diesel Electric underground loader features a faster, more efficient and powerful design. Cat said the high-efficiency electric drive system helps to reduce fuel consumption, lower greenhouse gas emissions, and the total cost of ownership.

The first diesel electric underground load-haul-dump (LHD) loader from Caterpillar, the new Cat® R2900 XE LHD meets the underground mining industry’s needs for bigger payloads, faster loading and reduced emissions. Built on the platform of Caterpillar’s most popular underground loader, this new LHD features optimized lift arm and component geometry plus load-sensing hydraulics to improve breakout force by 35 percent over the Cat R2900G.

The R2900 XE works faster in tough conditions, delivering 52 percent quicker acceleration and improved machine response over the R2900G. It accelerates from 0-24 km/h (0-14.9 mph) in 6.4 seconds and achieves a 7 percent higher speed on grade. Variable piston pumps deliver higher flow rates for faster hydraulic cylinder cycle times and powerful lift forces. Boasting a higher, 18.5-tonne (20.4-ton) payload for faster load times, the new LHD model offers a 3- to 4-pass match to the Cat AD63 truck for greater efficiency. Combined, these features deliver a 20 percent increase in productivity for the R2900 XE.

The loader’s redesigned buckets are available in four sizes with capacities ranging from 7.4 to 9.8 m³ (9.7 to 12 yd³) to match material density needs for a variety of loading, hauling and dumping conditions. Offering an optimized balance between productivity and bucket life, the full range of Cat ground engaging tools includes Modular Weld-on, Bolt-on Half Arrow and Durilock™ mechanically attached shrouds. To further protect the bucket, a range of heel shrouds, wear plates and bars are available in weld-on or mechanically attached designs.

Reliable and durable, the Cat C15 engine offers a variety of emission reduction and after-treatment options, including an EU Stage V/U.S. EPA Tier 4 Final configuration and diesel particulate filter. It delivers the power needed – up to 335 kW (449 hp) – with greater than 31 percent increased fuel efficiency compared to the R2900G. Its lower engine RPM results in reduced fuel burn, heat, noise, vibration and exhaust emissions, while offering an increase in power and productivity.

Read full details about the R2900 XE here.

Photo courtesy of Caterpillar.