Epiroc has launched the Scooptram ST4, a new 4-t-payload underground loader aimed at offering increased productivity in narrow-vein mining.
The Scooptram ST4 has been developed in close collaboration with customers, resulting in a compact underground loader tailored to the needs of small drift mines, Epiroc says. It features a Stage V engine and has already undergone field testing, demonstrating impressive results in safety, productivity and reliability, according to the company.
Mary Zhu, Global Product Manager Scooptram – Small Segment, said: “The Scooptram ST4 builds on years of experience from its predecessor, the Scooptram ST2G, and features major upgrades, particularly in productivity. With a completely new powertrain system and redesigned rear frame, combined with our proven safety features, this compact yet powerful loader is already making a positive impact in our customers’ operations, as seen in earlier field trials.”
The new powertrain system, which includes updated components such as the transmission, converter and engine options, significantly enhances the Scooptram ST4’s overall performance. It is available with both Tier 3/EU Stage IIIA and Tier 4/EU Stage V engine configurations. Notably, both engine alternatives offer 20% more power than the Scooptram ST2G’s current engine. In addition to faster cycle times and improved efficiency, the Stage V engine meets the highest emission standards, significantly reducing particulate matter and nitrogen oxides in mining operations, thus improving underground air quality, Epiroc claims. These environmental benefits are further amplified by the loader’s compatibility with HVO100 fuel, which helps reduce the overall CO₂ footprint.
Zhu added: “The new powertrain is the foundation of the Scooptram ST4’s superior mucking capabilities. Field trials show a 26% increase in average traction force compared to the ST2G, along with a 19% improvement in mechanical breakout force.”
Additionally, the loader demonstrates a 27% increase in revolutions per minute during mucking and hydraulic operations, and a 13% reduction in total cycle motion time. This results in faster bucket movements and hydraulic responses, leading to better fill factors and quicker loading. The enhanced powertrain enables the Scooptram ST4 to achieve up to 45% faster tramming speeds on flat ground with a loaded bucket and maintain higher gears even when tramming uphill under full load, delivering a notable boost in tonnage output per cycle.
Another key upgrade is the redesigned rear frame, which improves both safety and reliability. The new layout lowers the frame by 100 mm, significantly enhancing operator visibility. High-quality components, such as a reinforced drive shaft and the optional passive Diesel Particulate Filter system, further increase reliability by enabling longer service intervals, reducing maintenance needs and ensuring consistent performance in demanding underground conditions.
The Scooptram ST4 is designed for drift sizes with a minimum height of 2.8 m and performs exceptionally well at high altitudes, according to Epiroc. Field trials conducted at a mine located 4,100 m above sea level showed the loader delivering up to 12% more power compared with the previous model.
