Updated AC electric drive system boosts reliability and safety of Cat® 7495 and 7495 HF Electric Rope Shovels
Published by Sarah Smith,
Assistant Editor
World Coal,
Caterpillar has updated the proven AC electric drive system for Cat® 7495 and 7495 HF Electric Rope Shovels to deliver even greater reliability, improved maintenance access, enhanced safety and expanded ability to perform at high altitudes and in extreme temperatures. The updated system also is designed to easily integrate with advanced technologies.
Updates include a liquid-cooled motion regulator cabinet for more efficient dissipation of heat generated by electrical components. The new system enables shovels to operate at temperatures of -40°C/F to +50°C (122 degrees F) and altitudes of 5250m (17 220 ft) without derating. The reliable system also eliminates airborne contaminants in the cabinet and lengthens service intervals – for reduced costs and greater uptime. Additionally, a new, faster propel transfer switch cuts lag time by 75% for improved productivity.
New technologies enable consolidating two cabinets in the machinery house to create space for easier maintenance access. The updated maintenance station is designed for integration of current and future technology solutions, including Cat MineStar™.
The drive system design uses common motors in multiple applications. That means fewer parts to stock, improved parts availability and simplified maintenance. The new motors have higher power densities, smaller frame sizes and optimised footprint, which aids access.
The Cat rope shovel electric drive system still features proven elements such as fuseless insulated-gate bipolar transistor (IGBT) modules. And the on-board maintenance station still aids technicians in identifying faults and resolving issues.
The new electric drive system will be on all new production 7495 and 7495 HF shovels beginning in late 2020. The system is not intended for retrofit, though some elements, such as the fast propel transfer switch, are available as upgrades to machines already in service.
Read the article online at: https://www.worldcoal.com/special-reports/26112019/updated-ac-electric-drive-system-boosts-reliability-and-safety-of-cat-7495-and-7495-hf-electric-rope-shovels/
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