Assessment of the Field and Engineering Parameters on the Specific Fuel Consumption (SFC) of Rear Dump Trucks (RDT) in Mines

RDTs are primarily responsible for transporting large quantities of overburden and coal from extraction sites to disposal sites in mining operations. Their efficiency, however, depends on a variety of factors, including geo-mining conditions, haul road quality, and the characteristics of the RDTs themselves, such as their age, capacity, make, maintenance and many other factors. These variables not only affect operational performance but also have a direct impact on fuel consumption and its environmental outcomes, particularly on the Greenhouse Gas Emissions (GHGE). This paper investigates the effect of some geo-mining conditions, age and tonnage factors of the RDTs on its performance in a large opencast coal mining project. Data from RDTs of different makes, ages, and capacities operating under varying haul road conditions and lead distances were collected for analysis. Using mathematical tools, the study draws inferences on how these factors influence diesel consumption, operational efficiency, and impact the environment. The results demonstrate that, while lead distance, haul road quality, and capacity of the RDTs are critical parameters, the make of the dumper also plays a significant role in the performance. Major Findings: The findings suggest that improving geo-mining conditions and proper maintenance could lead to reduced fuel consumption, lower GHGE emissions, and better cost-efficiency in surface coal mining operations.