Epiroc has launched the Scooptram ST10 G, a battery-electric loader designed for smaller drift sizes.

The machine has a payload capacity of 10t and, with a nominal battery capacity of 270 kilowatt hours, has up to four hours of drive time on a single charge.

Epiroc global product manager Scooptram Mary Zhu said the Scooptram ST10 G was a good choice for mines with drift sizes down to 3.5m by 3.5m that were aiming to go electric.

"Based on the reliable Scooptram ST1030 and paired with our proven electric drive train and battery system, the technology used in this 10t loader already has thousands of hours from customer sites," Zhu said.

The battery can be swapped if needed or be charged using the onboard Combined Charging System charging interface.

The battery also has active and passive safety systems.

Epiroc has a battery-as-a-service offering that takes responsibility for the batteries from certification to maintenance plus technology upgrades.

According to Epiroc, the ST10 G can lower carbon dioxide emissions by up to 2.62t per year when compared to a traditional diesel-powered underground loader.

 Toxic gases, heat and noise are also reduced for operators working in the mine.

Epiroc global portfolio manager loaders Mattias Peterson said the company had worked with open standards and original equipment manufacturer-agnostic solutions to help make the transition to electrification easier for customers.

"The electric infrastructure and chargers can support not only our own machines but also other equipment in the mine, which is crucial to help accelerate the transformation towards more sustainable mining operations," Petterson said.