SAFETY EQUIPMENT PROJECTS

SAFETY EQUIPMENT PROJECTS

Project:  Folding Walk-Way Extension                   

Problem Statement:  The existing cab design does not allow the operator to safely clean the windshield of the equipment prior to and/or during their shift.  The windshield wipers are not sufficient at cleaning the windshield.

Scope:  Design a folding walk-way extension that allows for the safe cleaning of a windshield at an elevated height.  The walk-way must be counter-weighted for ease of lowering and raising and it must lock into position.

Specification:  System must have the following:

  • Provide a 40” extension to the existing walk-way
  • Counter-weighted with a less than 40 pound force to raise the walk-way
  • Certified to BC Mining Act Safety Standards
  • Minimize visibility impact over current walk-way encroachment
  • 6” high toe kick & 44” high railing & 22” high knee railing

safety extension folding walkway comparison

safety extension folding walkway comparison with bill of materials

safety extension folding walkway comparison up and down

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Project:  Hydraulic Cylinder Removal System

Problem Statement:  Large heavy hydraulic cylinders are difficult to remove and/or replace on mining equipment.  There is no dedicated machinery that can safely support the weight of a cylinder while it is being removed or installed on a piece of equipment.  Currently, chains are used to support the weight while forklifts try to maneuver around the equipment.  This presents unnecessary hazards.
Scope:  Design a custom piece of machinery that can be bolted to a tire manipulator and that can be maneuvered into position against a hydraulic cylinder.  The hydraulic cylinder can then be bolted to the machinery.  Once bolted to the machinery, the cylinder can then be easily and safely moved around.
Specification:  System must have the following:

  • All plate steel shall conform to CSA Standard G40.21-300W
  • All structural HSS shall conform to CSA Standard G40.21-350
  • All pipe shall conform to ASTM Standard A252 Grade 1 or better
  • All bolts shall conform to ASTM Standard A325
  • All weld material shall conform to E70XX
  • Adapter bolts to an IMT 3565 Tire Manipulator
  • Dedicated cylinder jigs are required for each cylinder
  • Laser cut cylinder type into cylinder jigs

safety system for removal of hydraulic cylinder weldment drawing

safety system for removal of hydraulic cylinder base weldment drawing

safety system for removal of hydraulic cylinder drawing with tire manipulator

safety system for removal of hydraulic cylinder photo

safety system for removal of hydraulic cylinder weldment drawing

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Project:  Safe Door Release Mechanism

Problem Statement:  The heavy door release pin wears down and requires shims to be installed on a weekly basis.  Shims are added or removed by hand which presents a danger to the person handling those shims.  A solution is needed to enable the technician to safely remove or add shims.

Scope:  Design a mechanism that can safely relieve the pressure of the door pin on the shims.  Furthermore, the mechanism must be able to prevent the door release action from changing the gap where the shims are placed during a shim adjustment cycle.

Specification:  System must have the following:

  • Custom screw-jack application to raise and lower a C-Clamp Door Release
  • Adjustment of the mechanism is done with a ¾” socket
  • Power screw designed to support 20,000 lbs. of load
  • Protective dust/debris boots covering power screw
  • Smooth operation between -50 Celsius to +75 Celsius
  • Heavy steel plate protecting the power screw mechanism

top level assembly drawing for custom power screw application

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