TRAMAC 700 and CDB40 KEEP THINGS RUNNING IN LARGE GOLD MINE
from our June, 2000 Issue

The Sigma Mine in Val D'Or, Quebec, faces the same challenges that confront the entire mining industry – one of which is keeping their crushers running jam-free with as little manual intervention as possible. This is a major efficiency consideration and a major safety concern.

Sigma, a division of McWatter Mine, is a large gold mine. They have been using Tramac hammers – 70, 100, 470 and 490S. In the fall of last year, they replaced the 490S mounted on a Tramac CDB40 Boom with a new Tramac 700. Their dealer is Pro-Ab Equipment, Val D'Or, Ontario.

Speed is the Issue
According to Jean-Pierre Tenhave, Equipment Manager at Sigma, the 700 has made all the difference in the world. "The 700 has a lot more power. It breaks well and is so fast that the boulders don't have a chance to jam against the sides of the crusher or the steel screen."

Christian Provencher, Mine Superintendent, told us the automatic stop is one of the most attractive features of his new hammer. The piston stops when not in contact with material – preventing blank firing, improving efficiency, and saving wear and tear on tool, hammer, and boom. He also commented on the hammer's trim, streamlined shape which increases maneuverability and makes operating a lot easier.

The 700, introduced in March, 1999, is a heavier version of the popular 600 model with a stronger cradle, heavier duty chuck housing, and larger diameter. It is designed for a wide variety of breaking jobs including oversized boulders, rock excavation and demolition of reinforced concrete.