Bobcat recently delivered two Bobcat S770 skid steer loaders to a leading mine based in the Northern Cape to meet above ground lifting and loading applications efficiently, reliable and safely.

According to Bobcat sales representative, Johann Cockrell, the mine is a long standing Bobcat customer and operates a number of smaller Bobcat machines at its various mine sites.

“Our customer is familiar with the proven quality and reliability delivered by our machines so when larger load and lifting capacities with the same all-important reliability and compact footprint were required for above ground applications at mines in the area, Bobcat was the supplier of choice.”

There is simply no compromise when it comes to safety and productivity on a mine. It is a harsh and dangerous environment that puts extreme demands on man and machine.  The robust 68.6kW S770 loaders have been specially designed to meet these demanding mining applications.

“Our total skid steer loader package delivers on all fronts,” says Cockrell and he elaborates, “Specially modified to comply with the mine’s stringent safety requirements, the loaders feature a number of special modifications including exhaust fume dilutors, oversize water traps, automatic greasing system, an automatic fire suppression system, mushroom type emergency operator stop switches and special lighting. The Northern Cape is a region known for high temperatures and Cockrell explains that the loader is ideally suited to these hot conditions due to the machine’s dual path cooling system.

Discussing operator safety and comfort, Cockrell highlights a number of features including an enclosed air-conditioned cabin, which is now 10% larger, with fully adjustable suspension seats and 45% larger door glass for best-in-class visibility and easy access. Operator comfort is further enhanced through reduced noise and vibration levels in the cabin. Every aspect of the re-designed S770 loader is aimed at faster and better delivery for optimum productivity; superior power and hydraulic performance, a rated operating capacity of 1569kg (ISO 14397-1), much higher load and lift capacities, more tipping load (3137kg (ISO 14397-1)), more pushing power, increased traction and lower ground pressure. The turbo-charged Kubota engine delivers 92hp (68.8 kW) and increased engine power. Optimised fuel capacity is achieved with the fitment of a larger fuel tank which allows 25% more run time between refuelling.

Optimum productivity is a direct outcome of uptime and Cockrell points out that maintenance is another important factor that impacts on productivity level.

“Easy access to daily routine and long term maintenance points, improved radiator cleaning, an auto tension drive belt, a maintenance-free chain case as well as forged steel rollers and idlers, all contribute to reduced maintenance time and costs,” states Cockrell.

The renowned versatility of Bobcat machines is complemented by more than 70 job-matched, quick and easy to fit Bobcat attachments, including angle brooms, augers, concrete pumps, dozer blades, heavy duty pallet forks, sweepers, trenchers, vibratory rollers and water kits, ideal for applications in mining, construction, demolition, road, forestry, agriculture and landscaping.

“Our solutions package also includes operator training as well as after-sales service.

Loader operators are trained by skilled, certified Bobcat personnel to ensure that the user friendly machines are used safely, correctly and at their optimum capacities for best performance. Coenie Jacobs, Bobcat Service Manager, based at our Kuruman branch, is responsible for maintaining and servicing the Bobcat loaders on the mines,” maintains Cockrell.