PRESS RELEASE: Banks Mining has taken delivery of its first Komatsu PC3000-6 mining shovel, which is being used as part of the earthmoving fleet deployed to remove overburden to expose the coal at the Shotton site and will also be used for the site’s restoration.

The 265t face shovel has been supplied by Komatsu Germany (KMG) and Bank Mining stated that it reflects its commitment to investing in the equipment and resources that its skilled teams require to operate their sites safely, responsibly and efficiently.

It's the latest investment by Banks Mining in Komatsu machinery and sits alongside a large number of Komatsu rigid haul trucks that already operate at Shotton.

Designed to offer high production figures with a low overall cost, the PC3000-6 is fitted with a single Tier 1 Komatsu V12 diesel engine delivering 1,260hp (939.6kW). The reliable single engine design allows for lower fuel consumption, lower emissions and provides a maximum breakout force of 1066kN to the 16m³ bucket. In addition to providing lower fuel consumption figures, the single engine design lowers servicing costs and decreases the servicing time significantly. 

The V12 engine is housed in a well-designed compartment that allows unrestricted access to all components thanks to the non-slip walkways. A major benefit is the ability for maintenance teams to be able to stand up around the components, something that is not always possible on other large excavators. All fluid filling points are located in a drop down Wiggins service arm located under the rear of the machine and allow for the quick and safe filling and emptying of fluids. The operators of the PC3000 will benefit from a comfortable working environment thanks to the modern and ergonomically designed cab being mounted on viscous pads. Equipped with the KOMTRAX Plus monitoring system, the machine’s working parameters can be monitored remotely ensuring that any issues can be seen and dealt with immediately.

The purchase of the machine meant a 563km relocation from its previous owner’s operation at Hinkley Point to the Shotton surface mine near Cramlington. Using the skills of KMG’s own team of highly qualified fitters and managed entirely by KMG Warrington, the shovel was broken down into nine loads which were transported to the Shotton site where Banks Mining had prepared a suitable pad on which to rebuild their new purchase.

Aided by 120t and 200t capacity cranes, the shovel was rebuilt over seven days by the team of three fitters skilfully working on the excavator and bringing it back to life. As part of the deal with Banks Mining, KMG undertook the replacement of various wear parts on the machine including a new PTO gearbox and new injectors for the engine. An upgraded access system was installed along with supplying a new, heavy- duty 16m³ bucket. Various hoses were replaced on the 2012 machine before it underwent a full service and planned maintenance clinic. The PC3000 will be looked after by KMG, with a dedicated fitter being stationed on site along with a stock of service items to ensure that the machine availability key performance indicators are met.

Borrowing on the incredible longevity and reliability of the machine’s predecessors, some of which are still working on a daily basis having clocked up over 50,000 hours, the new shovel joins a fleet of equipment in the Banks Mining fleet tasked with removing the remaining overburden at Shotton before commencing the ongoing restoration of the site over the next four years.

Robbie Bentham, plant director at Banks Mining, said: "Enhancing our plant fleet with the required equipment is essential for helping our teams working our surface mining sites in the safest, most responsible and most efficient, low emission, way possible, and this is the latest investment that we've made in recognition of the skills and expertise that they bring to the job. We have a good relationship with the Komatsu team, and the reliability and quality of the product made it the right choice for this task."