Caterpillar’s newest large mining truck, the 794 AC, made its mining show debut at MINExpo 2016. The 291-tonne (320-ton) capacity truck uses a combination of proven designs—a chassis design that has accumulated about 18 million operating hours and powertrain design that has racked up three million hours. The truck design focuses on class-leading productivity while delivering proven reliability and simple serviceability.
Following extensive field testing, controlled rollout of the new truck started last year. To date, the 794 AC is operating in four countries—working in applications ranging from deep pit copper in western USA to coal and copper in South America.
Mechanical availability of the 794 AC has averaged 90% or better from the introduction and has continued to improve with every new site introduction. The drive system is designed to power the larger Cat 795F AC, which has demonstrated drivetrain component life of more than 30,000 hours.
Due to the efficient, fully integrated Cat powertrain and machine configuration, the 794 AC has proven to be faster on grade than the competition. The new truck also features four-corner wet disc brakes as well as dynamic braking for stable handling and fast stopping. The 794 AC has industry-leading retarding capability in its size class with 4086 kW (5,480 hp) of continuous retarding.
Operators of the 794 AC state that they like operating the truck. They specifically cite fast speed on grade and the confidence the braking and retarding system gives them. Maintenance employees, too, provide positive feedback. Technicians at mines running the truck consistently praise the 794 AC for its simplicity and ample access for servicing tasks.
Optimized for the application
The 794 AC is designed and built to minimize total costs. The 794 AC is a true 291-tonne (320-ton) truck, as it accommodates additional weight allowances for options and body liners—so the truck can be fitted for superior durability without significant negative effects on production.
The 794 AC uses the Cat C175-16 engine and a proven Cat AC powertrain. System power is adaptable to accommodate changes in production targets and to work seamlessly in mixed fleets where truck speed differences can reduce productivity. Three power options—2,050, 2,312 and 2,610 kW (2,750, 3,100 and 3,500 hp)—are available using the same engine. High altitude configurations are also available.
The Cat High Efficiency (HE) Body is sized and configured to meet the specific needs of the mine, dictated by fragmentation, abrasion, cohesion and the loading tool. The 794 AC body is integral to the truck and is sized to meet the payload requirements without compromising vehicle balance, braking or control.
