Staubli Electrical Connectors is leading the charge in electrifying the mining industry with its new 7.5 megawatt (MW) quick charging connector system for heavy-duty electric mining trucks. This groundbreaking technology will make its debut at MINExpo in Las Vegas, September 24-26. The system’s high-power output and hands-free design promise to significantly speed up the transition to zero-emission mining operations.
Electrifying mining fleets offers numerous benefits beyond reduced emissions. It also minimizes noise pollution and improves the health and safety of mine workers. Despite these advantages, only 0.5% of mining equipment is currently fully electrified. Haul trucks, which transport ore from the mine face to the dump point, are particularly energy-intensive and therefore prime candidates for electrification.
However, electrifying heavy-duty mining vehicles presents unique challenges. Their large-capacity batteries require high charging power to be replenished quickly, ensuring minimal downtime. Staubli’s QCC-5000 system is designed to meet these demands, delivering up to 5,000 amps of continuous current at 1500 V DC.
Alain Schierenbeck, Business Development Manager Charging Solutions at Staubli, emphasizes the importance of reliability and safety in mining environments. “Any charging solution capable of supporting the mining industry must withstand harsh and rugged conditions. To guarantee uninterrupted charging cycles, the seals and touch protection must keep the contacts clean from water and dust. The reliability and high number of mating cycles of our robust charging connectors guarantee a long service life even in the harshest environments.”
Staubli’s QCC-5000 system stands out for its combination of charging power, safety, and automation. The hands-free design allows trucks to automatically mate with the charger without the driver leaving the cab, minimizing connection times and eliminating the need for manual handling of high-voltage connections. The automated connection is IP55 qualified, ensuring protection against water and dust, and only reveals the charging contacts when the pin and socket are fully connected, enhancing worker safety.
Beyond its core functionality, the QCC-5000 system offers a variety of integration options. It can be combined with a standard Staubli guiding system, mounted to a robot arm, or even customized to meet specific customer needs. The system also maintains compatibility with the existing QCC-1500 system, allowing for flexible use across different charging power levels.
To ensure interoperability across the mining industry, Staubli’s QCC-5000 system aligns with the SAE J3105/3 electric vehicle charging standard. This open standard ensures compatibility between charging solutions from various suppliers, promoting widespread adoption of electric mining equipment.
Staubli’s commitment to innovation and sustainable solutions is evident in its new 7.5 MW quick charging connector system for electric mining trucks. This technology represents a significant step towards a cleaner, safer, and more efficient future for the mining industry.
