Meeting the ever-increasing demand for iron ore and steel worldwide, mining is the main economic activity in West Australia. Most of the continentโs iron ore is mined in the Pilbara region, where Roy Hill runs a 55 million tonne per annum (mtpa) mining, rail and port operation, currently rising to 60 mtpa. Here, Hitachi equipment plays a vital part in supporting the business export to key international markets. As a margin-focused business, Roy Hill aims to maximise the return for each tonne of ore produced. This focus means the operation is not simply concerned with the amount of iron ore dug from the ground, but rather the sustained, low-cost production of iron ore, of consistent quality and grade. Roy Hillโs iron ore travels 344km along its dedicated railway to Port Hedland, where the product is loaded onto ships at the port. Roy Hillโs first shipment was exported in December 2015. A constant supply of cargo has left the two-berth wharf ever since, bound for Japan, Korea, China and beyond.
The Roy Hill mine fleet includes 24 of Hitachiโs largest rigid dump trucks, the EH5000AC-3, as well as three of Hitachiโs largest excavators, the EX8000-6. This is in addition to five EX5600-6s, four EX3600-6s and a single EX1200-6 excavator.
All of these models are manufactured to the highest standards at the Hitachi Construction Machinery Co., Ltd factory, Hitachinaka-Rinko Works, in Japan. Here, they are assembled, painted, checked and tested, then disassembled for shipping to customers around the world. The factory is conveniently located next to Rinko port, and delivery to Australia takes approximately one month.
Hitachi dump trucks and mining excavators are designed to work perfectly together and share proven Hitachi technology and components. The dump trucks for example, include an advanced AC drive system developed for Japanโs high-speed bullet trains. Key electrical components are designed and manufactured at Hitachi Ltdโs Omika Works factory, located approximately 15km away. These include the control cabinet, rectifier and IGBT. Travel motors are manufactured at another Hitachi facility, Yamate, also located nearby to Rinko.
"Pink is the new orange..."
To ensure Hitachi machines are developed with high levels of quality, safety and durability, they are tested rigorously 24/7. This takes place at the Urahoro test site on the northernmost of Japanโs main islands, Hokkaido, where temperatures can reach -30ยฐCย in winter.
A 5km-long track has been specially developed for the dump trucks, with a 1km straight, and varying degrees of slopes to simulate mining conditions. During testing, Hitachi examine aspects such as the brakes and steering to ensure that they conform to the appropriate ISO standards. Tests on the Hitachi Drive Control System (consisting of slip side control, pitch control and side skid control) are designed to ensure stable haul cycle times, and high levels of productivity, safety and efficiency.
Further examples of tests at Urahoro include the peripheral vision system Aerial Angle, and software updates to the machineโs integrated computer systems. Such stringent procedures are a vital part of the development process at Hitachi. They ensure its equipment continues to meet the requirements of customers such as Roy Hill.
At Roy Hillโs mine site in the Pilbara, the process starts with clearing, removing and storing topsoil for progressive rehabilitation once pits have been mined. As part of Roy Hillโs environmental compliance, the land will be returned to its original state once mineral extraction is complete. Once the topsoil is removed, the remaining earth is drilled and loaded with explosives.
After drilling and blasting, an excavator loads the Hitachi AC-3 dump trucks with bulk waste, which is taken to various dumping locations. The ore product is transported to the crushers, where it is screened and sized.
Once processed, the ore is washed, dried and stockpiled ready toย be loaded onto train wagons for the 344km journey to Port Hedland. Twenty-six locomotives are used in various driving configurations with up to 236 ore cars hitched together.
At the purpose-built port facility, the ore cars are unloaded by the rotary car dumper, before ore is stacked and loaded onto ships bound for international markets.
Up to six of the 2.6km-long trains are loaded with iron ore every day to meet current production requirements. The reliability of the Hitachi dump trucks to move the initial bulk material and satisfy this huge demand cannot be underestimated.
Roy Hillโs Head of Mining, Ian Wallace, explains: โThe Hitachi dump trucks are operating in tough conditions, and the fact that theyโve been rigorously tested in Japan gives us confidence.
โWe have 24 of the EH5000AC-3s on site and theyโre ideally matched to the scale of our operations, and to our EX8000-6 excavators. They provide us with an economy of scale in our bulk waste movement and there is also the benefit of maintaining electric drive machines over conventional mechanical drive models.โ
With the mine running 24/7, machine reliability, or โasset healthโ as it is known in Australia, is paramount, requiring close collaboration between Roy Hillโs specialist technicians and Hitachi representatives. Preventative maintenance and access to operating performance data from Hitachiโs remote monitoring solutions, including Global e-Service and ConSite, is key.
โSince having the EH5000s weโve had so much support from Hitachi,โ says Kevin Weary, Superintendent, Hauling & Ancillary. โWeโve got a couple of Hitachi representatives on site full time and they help with all the asset health. They give us the data we need as and when required.
โMoving forward with the remote monitoring system, weโll get the data daily and be able to improve our maintenance packages as a result. Since the trucks have been on site, theyโve performed really well, weโre very happy with them.โ
Operator safety and comfort are also vital. Shifts are long, conditions are always challenging, and the sheer size of the trucks isย significant. The operator sits high above ground level andย commands a 500-tonne machine capable of speeds up to 56km/h,ย carrying loads up to 296 tonnes.
Fortunately, the Hitachi trucks have been designed and developed with safety and performance in mind. Ergonomics play a key part in the cab design, which offer superior operator comfort and a great field of view. Another benefit is the Aerial Angle system, which provides the operator with all-round vision of whatโs happening outside of the truck.
Ancillary Operator Tarra Ninyette explains: โThe Aerial Angle is a fantastic safety system thatโs fitted to the Hitachi trucks. It provides us with object detection and collision avoidance technology that allows the trucks to operate in a safe and productive manner.
All the Hitachi EH5000AC-3 dump trucks owned by Roy Hill have their trays painted bright pink in support of breast cancer patients and research, and to honour the large number of women working alongside the men in these often tough conditions.
โOur Executive Chairman, Mrs Gina Rinehart, actively supports breast cancer patients and research, having started back in the early 1990s Australiaโs then first breast cancer foundation, and the pink trucks campaign continues this initiative,โ confirms Ian.
โMany of the trucks are named after people in the company whoโve been affected by and battled breast cancer, or partners of Roy Hill. This has touched many of our staff who are also champions of the cause. We have five pink locomotives, 130 pink ore cars and will soon have a pink WHIMS (wet high intensity magnetic separator) plant. In addition, our Chairman is also Godmother of the worldโs first pink bulk ore carrier ship, the Berge Toubkal, the newest in the Berge Bulk fleet, and the largest ship to carry the Roy Hill ore.โ
While the colour of the equipment sends a clear message, the performance of the Hitachi dump trucks and excavators also speaks for itself. As a result of high-quality manufacturing and engineering in Japan, and proven in-house technology from the Hitachi Ltd. group, as well as rigorous testing and continuous after-sales support, the Hitachi machines at Roy Hill are delivering long-term reliability in arguably the toughest conditions on the planet.
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Excitement is in the air! We`ve delivered a Hitachi ZX360LC-5 Excavator to ACT Hire โ the largest in their fleet, joining the likes of ZX55, ZX135, ZX225, and ZX290. Ryan, the Director of ACT Hire, couldn`t be happier with this latest addition.
The ZX360LC-5 is a testament to the firm and growing relationship between Hitachi Construction Machinery Australia and ACT Hire. Their consistent support and trust in our machinery fuel our commitment to excellence.
Here`s to more groundbreaking achievements and reaching new heights together!
#Hitachi #OrangeFamily ๐ #HitachiConstruction #ACTHire #BigMachines #ConstructionMachinery #Partnership #ExcavatorLife
We`re delighted to share a photo of our service team in Melbourne who has successfully assembled a brand-new EX1900-6 for one of our valued customers in Victoria. This achievement is not just about technical prowess but collaboration, safety, and efficiency.
With a focus on safety first, our team worked hand-in-hand with the customer, ensuring every process step was executed flawlessly. The result? Completing the build way ahead of schedule sets a new benchmark for excellence.
This accomplishment is a testament to the exceptional technical capabilities of our Victoria branches, showcasing our commitment to delivering top-notch service and solutions.
We want to extend a huge thank you to everyone involved in making this project a resounding success. Your dedication and expertise continue to drive us forward.
#Hitachi #OrangeFamily ๐ #HitachiConstructionMachinery #EX1900 #MelbourneSuccess #EngineeringExcellence #Teamwork #SafetyFirst
Special Delivery! Hitachi Construction Machinery Australia is excited to announce a landmark event with @ram.equipment in Adelaide. We`re not just celebrating a number but a significant first - delivering the first ZX360LC-7 to South Australia! ๐
This event was more than just a handover; it was a cultural blend and a shared passion. The Aussie BBQ ๐ sizzled alongside the delicate art of sushi ๐ฃ, symbolising the diverse yet unified spirit that drives us.
Adding a touch of tradition to innovation, we were honoured to present RAM Equipment with a bronzed scale model of an excavator, commemorating their EX300 milestone. This symbolises not just a number but the quality and strength of our ongoing partnership.
Here`s to pioneering firsts, enduring partnerships, and shared successes. Thank you, RAM Equipment, for being an integral part of this journey and for bringing the ZX360LC-7 to South Australia.
#Hitachi #OrangeFamily๐ #HitachiConstructionMachinery #FirstZX360LC7inSA #EX300Milestone #PartnershipGoals #AussieBBQ #SushiCelebration #InnovationAndTradition
Today, let`s celebrate the strength in self-care. Remind your mate: his well-being matters too.
Happy #internationalmensday! ๐ช
#orangefamily #takecaremate
Big day for @lampreycivil_lccs! Jakeb just upgraded his fleet with a sleek Hitachi ZX55U-5 excavator. Delivered right to Devonport, Tasmania, by our very own Sales Representative Bob. Cheers to the start of a groundbreaking partnership!
#Hitachi #OrangeFamily ๐๐ค #HitachiConstruction #NewBeginnings #ExcavatorExcellence
๐ ๐ง๐ถ๐บ๐ฒ`๐ ๐ง๐ถ๐ฐ๐ธ๐ถ๐ป๐ด, ๐ค๐๐ฒ๐ฒ๐ป๐๐น๐ฎ๐ป๐ฑ! ๐
Don`t miss out on the ๐ณ๐ถ๐ป๐ฎ๐น ๐๐๐ผ๐ฝ๐ of our exclusive Demo Day tour with Hitachi Construction Machinery Australia!
๐ ๐จ๐ฝ๐ฐ๐ผ๐บ๐ถ๐ป๐ด ๐๐ผ๐ฐ๐ฎ๐๐ถ๐ผ๐ป๐ & ๐๐ฎ๐๐ฒ๐:
๐ 8th-9th Nov: Bundaberg Sugar, Gooburrum Road Bundy
๐ 10th-11th Nov: Maryborough Noel Gerritz, 108 Owanyilla Boundary Road
๐ ๐๐ฒ๐ฎ๐๐๐ฟ๐ฒ๐ฑ ๐ ๐ฎ๐ฐ๐ต๐ถ๐ป๐ฒ๐:
1๏ธโฃ ZW220-7 Loader
2๏ธโฃ ZX135-7 Construction Excavator
3๏ธโฃ ZX55-5 Mini Excavator
4๏ธโฃ ZX17-5 Mini Excavator
This is your ๐น๐ฎ๐๐ ๐ฐ๐ต๐ฎ๐ป๐ฐ๐ฒ to experience our cutting-edge construction machinery in action! Our experts will be there to provide insights and answer any questions you may have.
โณ ๐๐ผ๐ป`๐ ๐๐ฒ๐ ๐ง๐ต๐ฒ ๐ข๐ฝ๐ฝ๐ผ๐ฟ๐๐๐ป๐ถ๐๐ ๐ฆ๐น๐ถ๐ฝ ๐๐๐ฎ๐! โณ
#Hitachi #OrangeFamily๐#HitachiConstructionMachineryAustralia #DemoDayReminder #QueenslandEvents #LastChance
The mighty EX3600-7BH has arrived on site to increase production for our valued customer. With maximized efficiency, durability, reliability and fuel saving features the EX3600-7BH is more than up to the challenge on site.
Our top notch build crew (the best in the business) delivering safely and on time.
A big thank you to Macmahon for trusting the EX3600-7BH to deliver!
#Hitachi #OrangeFamily๐ #HitachiConstructionMachineryAustralia #EX3600_7 #Macmahon #Mining
We are thrilled for MTS who has taken delivery of their first ZX135US-7 excavator! With its state-of-the-art features and compliance with the latest emission standards - all without the need for Adblue - the ZX135US-7 is perfectly tailored to meet the demands of their valued clients. Here`s to more milestones and achievements together!
#Hitachi #OrangeFamily ๐ #HitachiConstruction #ZX135US7 #InnovationInConstruction
Halloween vibes are in full swing, and our Zaxis-Prime is here to get in on the eerie excitement! ๐๐๐ป #orangefamily #halloween #halloween2023 #transformers #hitachi #excavator
Excitement is in the air! We`ve delivered a Hitachi ZX360LC-5 Excavator to ACT Hire โ the largest in their fleet, joining the likes of ZX55, ZX135, ZX225, and ZX290. Ryan, the Director of ACT Hire, couldn`t be happier with this latest addition.
The ZX360LC-5 is a testament to the firm and growing relationship between Hitachi Construction Machinery Australia and ACT Hire. Their consistent support and trust in our machinery fuel our commitment to excellence.
Here`s to more groundbreaking achievements and reaching new heights together!
#Hitachi #OrangeFamily ๐ #HitachiConstruction #ACTHire #BigMachines #ConstructionMachinery #Partnership #ExcavatorLife
We`re delighted to share a photo of our service team in Melbourne who has successfully assembled a brand-new EX1900-6 for one of our valued customers in Victoria. This achievement is not just about technical prowess but collaboration, safety, and efficiency.
With a focus on safety first, our team worked hand-in-hand with the customer, ensuring every process step was executed flawlessly. The result? Completing the build way ahead of schedule sets a new benchmark for excellence.
This accomplishment is a testament to the exceptional technical capabilities of our Victoria branches, showcasing our commitment to delivering top-notch service and solutions.
We want to extend a huge thank you to everyone involved in making this project a resounding success. Your dedication and expertise continue to drive us forward.
#Hitachi #OrangeFamily ๐ #HitachiConstructionMachinery #EX1900 #MelbourneSuccess #EngineeringExcellence #Teamwork #SafetyFirst
Special Delivery! Hitachi Construction Machinery Australia is excited to announce a landmark event with @ram.equipment in Adelaide. We`re not just celebrating a number but a significant first - delivering the first ZX360LC-7 to South Australia! ๐
This event was more than just a handover; it was a cultural blend and a shared passion. The Aussie BBQ ๐ sizzled alongside the delicate art of sushi ๐ฃ, symbolising the diverse yet unified spirit that drives us.
Adding a touch of tradition to innovation, we were honoured to present RAM Equipment with a bronzed scale model of an excavator, commemorating their EX300 milestone. This symbolises not just a number but the quality and strength of our ongoing partnership.
Here`s to pioneering firsts, enduring partnerships, and shared successes. Thank you, RAM Equipment, for being an integral part of this journey and for bringing the ZX360LC-7 to South Australia.
#Hitachi #OrangeFamily๐ #HitachiConstructionMachinery #FirstZX360LC7inSA #EX300Milestone #PartnershipGoals #AussieBBQ #SushiCelebration #InnovationAndTradition