A suspended load test was conducted on a Marion Dragline to assist with bucket sizing and dragline productivity improvements. Live measurements were taken including the current bucket weight, the fill factor and the operating rope forces, which were used to inform the new bucket design process.
The test provided detailed weights and forces of each dig cycle, as well as comparisons of the OEM’s rated suspended load to the actual suspended loads.
Maintenance personnel were able to evaluate the effects of the carry angle, the rigging configuration, and the subsequent material washout, to better optimize the productivity of the dragline.
