Complete fleet management from Metso

Manufacturer offers full range of fleet-management tools for Lokotrack mobile crushing plants

WITH remote monitoring of crushing data from quarries becoming a crucial element in mobile crushing and screening applications, Metso are offering complete fleet-management and automation systems, designed for all Lokotrack mobile applications.

Metso’s Fleet Management system consists of an IC process-control system, a satellite uplink and a Metso DNA Report portal. The system collects and presents a daily overview of the operating Lokotrack fleet including effective operating hours, fuel consumption, location of the units, alarms and parameter changes.

Metso’s IC process-control system, a standard feature in all Lokotrack crushing plants, collects crusher data continuously; this information is sent daily from the Lokotrack, via the satellite uplink, allowing the crushing data to be accessed via the Internet portal.

‘Without this system, collecting operating hours and other data manually is time-consuming. There are also delays before the numbers are at your fingers and the data can be inaccurate,’ commented Julius Mäkelä, project manager with Metso Mining and Construction. ‘Metso Fleet Management provides daily operating data automatically wherever you are, saving time and enhancing the accuracy of information.

‘Maintenance, ordering spares and wear parts, and re-fuelling can be organized in a more effective way when you know the exact fuel consumptions and operating hours of individual units. Here, the fleet-management tool can provide valuable assistance,’ he added.

Parameter changes have a direct effect on the crushing and screening process. Data and parameter changes are collected by the Metso DNA Report portal and data can be accessed anywhere using the Internet.

In the Report portal, users can compare data between units, days or weeks. Repeating alarms due to the misuse of the unit cannot be hidden anymore. Using the portal, operators have the means to utilize their Lokotracks more effectively and preserve the value of their investment.

In addition to the fleet-management system, last year Metso launched the ICr remote monitoring system for Lokotrack plants, providing real-time wireless operating data and unit control. The system improves working safety and comfort by allowing the excavator operator to adjust all basic crushing parameters without leaving the excavator cab.

For complete mobile plant automation, a Metso DNA automation system is available, featuring full process controls for feeders, crushers, conveyors, screens and hoppers. The system controls parameters such as material feed rate, recirculation and crusher loads, and provides real-time process information and camera images.

Metso say feedback to date has been very positive, with plant automation securing continuous production of high-quality end products and making the operating environment safer and more comfortable.