Swiss mechatronics solutions provider Stäubli has introduced a groundbreaking quick-charging connector (QCC) system designed to enhance the efficiency and safety of charging heavy-duty electric mining trucks. The announcement was made during the MINExpo event, emphasizing the company’s commitment to facilitating a shift towards zero-emission mining operations.
The newly developed QCC-5000 fast-charging connector system is specifically tailored for the demanding conditions of the mining industry. This liquid-cooled system enables vehicles to automatically connect to chargers without requiring drivers to exit their cabs, significantly reducing connection times and minimizing the risk of operator exposure to high current.
The QCC-5000 features an automated connector that boasts an IP55 rating, providing robust protection against water and dust ingress. Notably, the system ensures that charging contacts are only exposed once the pin and socket are fully engaged, a crucial safety improvement over existing manual systems that leave contacts unprotected and vulnerable to failure.
Alain Schierenbeck, Stäubli’s business development manager for Charging Solutions, stated, “Any charging solution capable of supporting the mining industry must withstand harsh and rugged mining environments. To guarantee uninterrupted charging cycles, the seals and touch protection must keep the contacts clean from water and dust. The reliability and high number of mating cycles of our robust charging connectors ensure a long service life even in the harshest conditions, effectively minimizing maintenance and significantly reducing costs over the product lifecycle.”
To effectively manage heat, the QCC-5000 incorporates advanced cooling technologies for both its cables and charging pins, which have been validated through extensive testing. Stäubli reports that the system can handle impressive charging capabilities of up to 7.5 MW, with continuous current ratings of 4,250 A and peak levels reaching 5,000 A at 1,500 V dc.
Furthermore, the QCC-5000 complies with the SAE J3105/3 electric vehicle charging standard, which standardizes the design of charging pins and sockets, allowing for compatibility across various suppliers and solutions.
The QCC-5000 offers a range of integration options tailored to specific applications, vehicle types, and customer needs. These include compatibility with a standard Stäubli guiding system, which can be mounted on a robotic arm, as well as fully customized solutions. The system is also designed to be fully compatible with the existing QCC-1500, enabling the use of the same interface across multiple charging power levels.
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