A new specially designed skid-mounted cable reeler has been provided to Rio Tinto Hail Creek open-cut coal mine. The truck was supplied by Crokers Trucks in Mackay and was a
6 x 6 Mack. A special body was designed to accept the trailing cable payout and pickup powered drum which incorporates a special retractable boom arm making it possible to place the trailing cable on top of the bund beside the road. This means that the cable is less likely to be run over by trucks or other machinery. When picking up trailing cables, it is fed back onto the drum via the rear mounted rollers. The whole drum assembly is capable of pivoting +/- 25° to assist with laying cable on the initial layer.

The unit is PTO powered from the truck transmission and all controls are radio. Two radio remotes are provided ndash; one for the observer and one for the truck driver. Suitable cameras and lights are provided making it possible to lay the cable out with complete control from the truck cab. Cable can be laid out or picked up at a speed of 5-6 km/hour. The skid-mounted unit is fixed to the truck tray body via container locks and quick release couplings for hydraulic and electrical supply. The body features diesel powered generator and air compressor and has been specially designed to accept bucket teeth and replacement pins. The truck has been set up to make it as versatile as possible. When the drum rotator assembly has been removed, the tray back truck is available for other purposes. The unit also features a truck loading crane mounted behind the cab. This crane is intended for loading and unloading the truck and also for picking up the trailing cables for connection or disconnection. This new design vehicle has been developed in conjunction with experienced mine staff from Rio Tinto Hail Creek. Please refer to the mine section of our website for more detailed information.