The scenario
Ensuring the continuous and safe performance of large machines in mining operations
A business case from a coal mine.
What we did
In mining operations, large machines such as Bucket Wheel Excavators rely heavily on the integrity of their gearboxes, particularly the planetary (epicyclic) transmission, which is vital for smooth and uninterrupted operation. Failure in this component can lead to significant downtime and costly repairs. To mitigate these risks, the TRUST ITM® Mobile Kit was customised specifically for the Bucket Wheel Excavator’s planetary transmission and magnetic sensors were adapted to measure internal temperatures, providing more precise data regarding the health of the gearbox. The sensors continuously monitor the temperature inside the gearbox, sending real-time data to a display mounted in the operator’s cabin.
Beyond in-cabin monitoring, the system can be connected to a cloud-based platform, allowing real-time remote access to gearbox data. By connecting the system to the mine’s Wi-Fi network or cell phones, the sensors can provide timestamped data and send automatic notifications to maintenance personnel when critical temperature thresholds are reached.
What we achieved
This feature allows proactive maintenance, ensuring that issues are resolved before they escalate, reducing the risk of extended downtime and expensive repairs. The customised TRUST ITM® Mobile Kit has revolutionised maintenance and safety for bucket wheel excavators, offering real-time alerts and remote monitoring for safer and more efficient mining operations.
