Coshocton, OH-based Oxford Mining Company recently took delivery of a modern mining “system” consisting of a Caterpillar 994F wheel loader and two Cat 789C off-highway trucks.

Following a luncheon March 10 at the Wallace Lodge at Sally Buffalo Park in Cadiz, OH, guests headed to the mine for a demonstration of the new system.

The Cat 994F is the largest wheel loader manufactured by the company, with a gross operating weight of 430,858 lbs. (195,434 kg) and bucket capacity of 25 cu. yd. (19 cu m). It is the only operational 994F in Ohio.

Oxford Mining worked with Ohio CAT, the Cat equipment and power systems dealer of the state of Ohio, to identify a system that would increase productivity in the ever-competitive coal industry.

The key factor in the decision-making process was the evolution of the 994 into the “F” Series.

The 994F is the result of more than 10 years of development work that began with the introduction of the original 994 in 1990, providing reliability and durability unmatched in this size class.

Another important factor was the Cat Vital Information Management System (VIMS), which provides real-time machine condition and production information to the operator and supervision, and helps them make informed decisions that directly affect safety, machine availability, and ultimately the productivity of the mine.

“The VIMS system is truly remarkable and provides the user with a tremendous amount of information that directly impacts productivity,” said Paul Liesem, vice president of Major Account Development at Ohio CAT, who worked with Oxford on the purchase. “In addition, it relays information on the condition of the machine to help maintenance managers and technicians minimize unscheduled downtime and improve Oxford’s asset management.”

Oxford took delivery of the 994F in January after it was shipped from the factory in eight truckloads and assembled by Ohio CAT technicians at Oxford’s mining site in Cadiz, OH.

Technical, maintenance and operator training were held the last week of January and the machine was immediately put into service with the two new 789Cs that had already been assembled.

The 994F and 789C mining system offers maximum mine efficiency and productivity. The 994F can load the 200-ton 789C in five to six passes, minimizing load time and maximizing the volume of material moved to keep per-ton operating costs low.

Oxford Mining Company is the largest surface-coal miner in Ohio and operates sites in the Appalachian region.

For more information, call 740/622-6302 or visit www.oxfordmining.com.

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