Caterpillar’s AD63 Underground Mining Truck Adds Torque, Payload

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Caterpillar’s new 69-ton AD63 articulated haul truck supersedes the AD60 with 5% more payload capacity. (Photo courtesy of Caterpillar.)

Caterpillar’s new 69-ton (63-metric-ton) AD63 articulated haul truck supersedes the AD60 with 5% more payload capacity, while still maintaining commonality with other AD60 bodies. The AD63 also comes with more torque, better gear retention on variable grades, and extra rimpull from a standing start. Oh, and it can operate nearly two miles under the surface of the Earth. The Cat AD63 is slated to arrive in late 2020.

New Features

A new torque converter gear ratio isn’t the only novel feature in the AD63’s drivetrain. An optimized transmission shift strategy makes uphill driving smoother and more comfortable for the driver. External displays on both sides of the truck tell the loader operator the weight of the contents at a glance. A new, lightweight dump body with 50.1 cubic yards (38.3 cubic meters) of capacity is available as an option.

Outside the cab, there’s a new access ladder with fold-flat handrails. The cab now tilts for ease of maintenance access. Cat redesigned the AD63’s engine cooling system to keep the work going even at high temperatures. The cooling package is also designed to be easier to service. In a like manner, the radiator core now has serviceable tubes to reduce downtime.

Speaking of the AD63’s engine, it’s a 789-horsepower Cat C27 diesel that meets EU Stage V emissions requirements without the use of diesel exhaust fluid. It can, however, be outfitted with a diesel particulate filter, such as the Cat Wall Flow Filter. The engine now can operate at an expanded range of altitudes, from 10,000 feet (3,048 meters) underground to 5,500 ft (1,524 m) above the surface.

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Inside the AD63’s cab is a roomy, forward-facing trainer seat and a battery-electric HVAC system with nine adjustable louvers. (Photo courtesy of Caterpillar.)

A Better Training Truck

Inside the AD63’s cab is a forward-facing buddy seat with more room for a trainer to sit comfortably. The HVAC system, which thoughtfully sports nine adjustable louvers, is powered by a battery-electric system so it can run without fuel consumption on the part of the diesel engine.

Cat’s Product Link Elite remote monitoring comes standard on the AD63. It allows direct troubleshooting access and condition monitoring from Caterpillar and Cat dealers. The system can also share data with multiple destinations and fill in data gaps during periods of loss of network signal.

Source: Caterpillar