EPCA Tackles Cat 793 Retrofit Challenge with Sigma Powertrain, Dayton-Phoenix
Electric Power Conversions Australia (EPCA), Sigma Powertrain and Dayton-Phoenix Group have teamed up for an ambitious project to convert a Caterpillar 793C mechanical drive truck into a battery-electric haul truck. The project, which received an end-of-life truck from Northern Star Resources' KCGM Operations in Western Australia, aims to support the advancement of battery-electric mining technology in the country.
EPCA has previously successfully retrofitted heavy diesel mining equipment for electric operation, including a Cat 777 haul truck. The company claims that advances in battery, drivetrain and power electronics technology now make it commercially viable to retrofit these trucks using proven components.
The project will utilize the TERRAMAX gearbox from Sigma Powertrain and drive motors and inverters supplied by Dayton Phoenix. EPCA is confident that they can achieve acceptable runtime and charging performance with this setup.