Powering Underground Transport | Power Connect | John Deere US

In a coal mine, safety comes first. Becker-Warkop develops transport systems to move people and materials swiftly and safely in these hazardous underground environments. And to make the next generation of these systems a cleaner ride, Becker-Warkop upgraded its hydraulic pack to a Tier 3/Stage IIIA emission standard with a John Deere PowerTech™ E 6.8L engine. Already, more than 30 John Deere-powered systems have been sold worldwide and new, compact designs are in the works.

Becker-Warkop Sp. z o.o., headquartered in Swierklany, Poland, is a leading producer of underground transport systems made for coal mines, where methane and coal dust pose explosion hazards. Building on 30 years of experience and a commitment to constant improvement, the company designs mining solutions that combine the highest safety standards with productivity and flexibility. "Our systems let contractors move materials faster and safer, so they can increase their development of coal seams while saving on labor and maintenance costs," says Mateusz Koc, international sales department manager.

Next-generation of underground transport power

Finding the most suitable solution for the customer is one of the biggest challenges for Becker-Warkop. "Underground conditions can vary a lot: heat, dust, moisture. We constantly challenge ourselves to develop systems that work efficiently in extreme conditions," Koc continues.

Becker-Warkop uses a single power pack in its floor-mounted and suspended monorail systems. "For our next generation of diesel-driven systems, our focus was on optimizing key aspects, including fuel efficiency, air pollution, and heat emission. And we knew from experience that for the 'ideal' diesel engine, a power ratio of 150 kW (200 hp) power would be optimal."

The 6.8 liter engine fit the bill. "It could also be modified to meet explosion-proof certification, which is crucial in mining applications," explains Koc.