“According to recent test data, operations can achieve more than a 10% increase in productivity with the use of JoyRide shuttle car suspension technology,” Joy global haulage design engineer Toby Cressman said.

“Furthermore, depending upon market and mine conditions, operations can realize payback in as little as one month when investing in this ‘next generation’ four-wheel independent suspension system, which has been enhanced by a new and improved JoyRide strut system that offers the best-in-class ride available on the market today.”

The JoyRide suspension systems are available on all Joy low, mid, and high-seam shuttle car models as an option, and design work is underway for the future release of ultra-high seam models.

One benefit is superior vibration dampening characteristics that reduce forces on the machine chassis that result in less wear and tear on shuttle car components, reduced material loss, and less rutting in roadways.

Better yet, less energy and impact transfers to the operator, which lets them safely and comfortably maintain higher shuttle car speeds with less fatigue.

“As has been proven in suspension cars already operating underground, improved ergonomic performance means more trips per shift, which means more tons per day at a lower cost,” Cressman said.

“This positive affect on operator safety, as well as productivity, is why we are seeing a higher percentage of our customers moving toward the suspension system option.”

The backward-compatible and improved JoyRide strut design is the result of ongoing and innovative design initiatives as well as meticulous component and underground machine testing, the OEM said.

This has ultimately allowed similar advancements in above-ground earth moving equipment suspension systems to be applied to space-efficient underground equipment.

“In fact, the JoyRide strut design tested favorably against ISO standards for human body vibration exposure,” Cressman said.

“Also, the JoyRide strut is a simple, self-contained unit, and can be retrofitted to suspension machines currently in the field without a new chassis being required.”

JoyRide suspension shuttle cars are in operation on four continents.