LIEBHERR has developed a loader for use in the extreme temperatures found in slag handling applications at steel mills.
The 23t LR 634 STM Litronic is said to withstand both direct heat radiation and high temperatures from contact through the bucket and the undercarriage.
The mining equipment manufacturer says hydrostatic crawler unit has a heavy-duty undercarriage which is protected by track guards and sealed D6 chains with 45cm 3-grouser track shoes. The machines chains, rollers, special bucket and a double sealed and electronic monitoring final drive with a protection ring are all heat-resistant.
The unit’s diesel tank is also isolated by a guard, high temperature resistant isolation mat and a filler guard while sheet metal and a chain curtain protect the lift cylinder which has a solid steel hydraulic feed pipe.
The supplier says extra warning lights show fuel reserve and diesel temperature and there is a temperature sensor installed in the hydraulic circuit.
The operator is kept safe in a heavily fire-guarded, heat-resistant, air-conditioned ROPS and FOPS cab. Furthermore, the machine can be specified with wireless remote control, allowing the operator to carry out hazardous tasks from a safe distance.