Caterpillar reveals innovative mining energy management system.

Charging diesel-electric or battery-electric mining trucks has been one of the most complex challenges of the industry’s energy transition. Construction Briefing reports that Caterpillar has developed an innovative solution called Dynamic Energy Transfer (DET) that allows trucks to be charged while they are working.

DET was described by Denise Johnson, Caterpillar’s Resource Industries group president as a “technological leap for the mining industry”.

Developed entirely by Caterpillar, the DET system consists of a power module that converts energy from the mine’s power source; an electrified rail that transmits the energy; and, a system on the truck to deliver energy to the powertrain. The rail system is suitable for installation on high-speed and curved haul roads and the connecting arm can be installed on either side of the truck. DET integrates with Caterpillar’s MineStar Command system.

“When combined, these technologies will help miners achieve production targets while simultaneously managing energy demands,” added Caterpillar senior vice president Marc Cameron.