Western Australia has begun trials of a new range of “super-quad” road trains, billed to enhance cost efficiencies in the mining sector.
Developed over the past two years by manufacturer Bruce Rock Engineering, the 60 metre long road trains have the potential to reduce the impact of heavy road traffic on road infrastructure in WA.
Bruce Rock managing director Damion Verhoogt said the company had made considerable investment in developing the international top line patented product.
“To date, we have invested more than $100,000 in engineering R&D into the trial process, however we are delighted to be able to proactively contribute to the industry a premium product that will not only save on costs for our clients but will reduce truck movements by up to 20 per cent which is a massive gain for the industry and general community,” he said.
The first tests were carried out in September, loading product from client Mineral Resources subsidiary Process Minerals, and transport contractor Fusion Contracting.
The first two full loads to be delivered by the new road trains were received on October 7.
Process Minerals transport manager Ken Walsh said, “We can see that this new technology will be of huge benefit to us and the resources sector, particularly with regards to productivity and cost efficiencies from our operators.”
“It will also positively impact road infrastructure with less vehicles on the road and more tonnage being loaded.”