Caterpillar reveals flexible new electrification system for large mining trucks

Caterpillar has developed a new electrification system for diesel-electric and battery-electric mining trucks. Cat Dynamic Energy Transfer (DET) transfers energy to large mining trucks while they are working around a mine site. Caterpillar says this new energy management solution can also charge a machine’s batteries while operating with increased speed on grade, improving operational efficiency and machine uptime.

“We believe Cat DET provides a technological leap for the mining industry. Our team of innovators designed this system to provide immediate benefit to miners who want to lower their operating costs and greenhouse gas emissions today while also creating flexibility for the future,” said Denise Johnson, Caterpillar’s Resource Industries group president. “We know customers need choices to fit their unique site objectives. We are proud to deliver an innovative, integrated solution that can support their needs of today and those of the future.”

Cat DET is a customizable electrified rail system

Cat DET includes a power module that converts energy from a mine site’s power source, an electrified rail system to transmit the energy, and a machine system to transfer the energy to the truck’s powertrain.

Caterpillar says the rail system is a highly deployable, mobile solution that can be customized to customers’ specific site layouts, including high-speed and curved haul roads. The connecting arm can be installed on either side of a truck and on multiple truck models. It can also be used on mature or developing sites, and it can be easily moved or expanded to allow maximum mine site coverage.

Caterpillar integrates electrification and autonomy solutions

Cat DET will integrate with Cat MineStar Command for hauling, merging Caterpillar’s autonomy and electrification technologies for the mining industry.

Caterpillar Senior Vice President Marc Cameron explained, “We believe mine sites will benefit from enhanced efficiency with the integration of electrification and automation. When combined, these technologies will help miners achieve production targets while simultaneously managing energy demands.”