Fairchild International Introduces AC VFD Battery-Powered Scoop for Low-Seam Applications
Glen Lyn, VA, December 6, 2011
Fairchild International, a U.S.-based manufacturer of underground mining equipment, is now manufacturing the 35C-LV-AC Low-Vein AC VFD Battery-Powered Scoop. The machine is ideal for seam heights of 36"-48" and offers the safety and performance advantages of Fairchild’s battery-powered AC variable frequency drive scoops.
“We are pleased to offer an AC VFD battery-powered scoop for low-seam applications that allows mine operators to maintain the same levels of worker protection and productivity that our other equipment provides,” says Jack Fairchild, Jr., Fairchild International's Vice President of Sales. “We invested significant resources to develop this innovative piece of equipment because maximizing safety and productivity are vital at any seam height.”
Safety benefits of the 35C-LV-AC Low-Vein AC VFD Battery-Powered Scoop include grade speed control and load capacity stability for safer operation on slopes and pitching seams; reduced need for battery change-outs; reduced need for battery maintenance and watering, reducing exposure to battery acid; brushless motors; and programmable speed and torque to match operator experience and mine environment.
Performance advantages include higher speed and torque throughout entire battery charge cycle; superior creep speed capability for improved operator control; constant tram speeds regardless of grade and bucket load; larger-diameter drive lines and universal joints to withstand higher speeds and increased torque; larger speed reducer with gearing designed to handle increased speed and torque; more efficient use of power with VFD electric controls; double the operating time per battery charge, eliminating the need for a third set of batteries; advanced low-voltage protection, eliminating damage to drive system components; adjustable tram speed and torque output achievable with programming code; and higher horsepower ratings for tram and pump motors.
The 35C-LV-AC Low-Vein AC VFD Battery-Powered Scoop motor is equipped with enough horsepower to allow main hydraulic pump output to be more responsive during operation, as well as an encoder that allows for a soft tram start. The motor's significantly lower drive temperature improves the performance of electrical components due to lower heat generation, and all programming and troubleshooting may be done on a diagnostic readout mounted in the operator’s compartment, eliminating the need for a hand-held data programmer. The unit's proven dynamic braking capability reduces wear on cables and motors, as well as the drive system.
Fairchild International is an independently-owned-and-operated underground coal mining equipment manufacturer. Over the past decade, the company has produced the industry's most complete line of AC VFD and DC battery-powered scoops along with permissible and non-permissible diesel scoops. Fairchild also manufactures a wide range of continuous miners and haulage systems, longwall shield haulers, maintenance vehicles, maintenance centers and cargo carriers. The company is headquartered in Glen Lyn, VA, and has warehouses and service centers in Beckley, WV; DuQuoin, IL; Glen Lyn, VA; Huntington, UT; Indiana, PA; and Pikeville, KY. For more information, contact Jeremy Fairchild at (540) 726-2380, e-mail jeremy.fairchild@fairchildint.com.
