BluVein, based in Brisbane, Australia, is developing dynamic charging technology in partnership with OEM truck companies to recharge mining vehicles during operation. The technology aims to increase utilization rates of electrified mining trucks, simplify installation and relocation, and reduce maintenance.
The system comprises a hammer that connects with a charging rail enclosing high-voltage conductors. In underground mines, the rail is mounted overhead, while in surface mining, it is mounted on short poles. BluVein offers two versions of the system: BluVein1 for underground applications with a 1MW charging speed, and BluVeinXL for open-pit applications with an 8MW charging speed.
According to BluVein CEO James Oliver, the system functions as an automated IP2X-rated power connection capable of transferring up to 8 MW of energy. Furthermore, preliminary studies have indicated that when combined with dynamic charging of sufficient capacity to power the vehicle and charge the battery, the system can potentially reduce battery size by as much as 60%.
The company is in discussions with major industry players like Sandvik, MacLean, Volvo, and Scania to prepare demonstration vehicles.
Source: THE DRIVEN
Image Source: BluVein