The Load – Haul – Dump (L.H.D.) is a key mechanical device widely used in underground mine mining. It integrates the functions of loading, hauling, and dumping, which significantly improves the efficiency and automation level of mine mining.
In terms of structure, a mining L.H.D. is generally composed of a power system, a transmission system, a working device, a traveling device, and an operating system. The power system usually adopts a diesel engine or an electric motor to provide strong power support for the equipment. The transmission system is responsible for rationally distributing power to each working component to ensure the stable operation of the equipment. The working device includes a bucket, a boom, etc., which can efficiently complete the loading operation of ores. The traveling device gives the L.H.D. the ability to move flexibly in narrow and complex underground roadways. Common types include tire – type and crawler – type. The tire – type has the characteristics of fast driving speed and good mobility, while the crawler – type is more suitable for soft or rough ground. The operating system enables operators to precisely control various actions of the equipment.
During actual operations, the mining L.H.D. first scoops up the blasted ores or rocks with its bucket, then transports them to the designated dumping location, such as a mine car or a draw – shaft, relying on its own hauling capacity. Finally, it unloads the materials by controlling components such as the boom. This continuous operation process greatly shortens the time for material transportation in mine mining, reduces the workload of manual handling, and improves the production efficiency of the mine.
In addition, modern mining L.H.D.s are continuously evolving towards intelligence and automation. Some advanced L.H.D.s are equipped with functions such as automatic navigation and remote control, which can achieve unmanned operation in complex and dangerous environments, further ensuring the safety of operators. At the same time, it also improves the operating efficiency and reliability of the equipment.
