CATERPILLAR has unveiled its new 793F Cat mining truck – the fifth generation of the 793, which promises higher standards of productivity, durability, operating ease, altitude capability, fuel efficiency and emissions control.

The 793F builds on the proven, 20-year performance record of its predecessors with a powerful 2,650-horsepower (hp) new engine, 250-tonne payload capacity, choice of power train options, and body systems and a completely redesigned operator station.

“The 793F also offers enhanced serviceability through its ground-level service points and 1,000-hour hydraulic filter service intervals. Its 16-cylinder, C175-16 diesel engine displaces 5.3 litres per cylinder, developing 235 hp more than its predecessor, the 793D,” says a spokesman for the company.

The cross-flow engine design uses four turbochargers, an air-to-air after-cooler and an electronically-controlled common-rail fuel system that senses changes in operating conditions and regulates fuel delivery for optimum fuel efficiency. Engine emissions meet EPA Tier 2 requirements.

The C175-16, with a 20-per-cent torque rise, allows the 793F to climb steep grades at productive speeds and to effectively negotiate poor underfoot conditions. The electronically-controlled cooling system incorporates a Mesabi radiator featuring a flexible-core design that is extremely durable and easy to service, the spokesman says.

The 793F’s electron six-speed planetary transmission, with an integral lock-up torque converter, drives through the massive rear-axle differential and double reduction final drives, which together provide an overall reduction-ratio of 29:1.

The 793F standard braking system combines three brake functions (primary, secondary and parking) with an automatic, hydraulically-actuated retarder operating on all four corners of the truck.

These sealed, oil-cooled assemblies use a number of 34.5-inch diameter friction discs stacked alternately with same-diameter steel plates. Compressing this assembly with a hydraulically actuated piston (primary braking/retarding) or via spring pressure (secondary/parking brake) slows and stops the truck.

The 793F is offered with three body options: X-Body; MSD II (mine specific design); and gateless coal body.