Hitachi Construction Machinery Co Ltd has announced that an EX5500-6 ultra-large hydraulic excavator manufactured by the company has passed 100,000 hours of operation at the Moatize Coal Mine in Tete Province in the Republic of Mozambique.
The mine is operated by Vulcan Mozambique SA. To celebrate this achievement, a ceremony was held at the mine on August 27. Approximately 80 Vulcan and Hitachi Construction Machinery Group officials attended the ceremony, where appreciation was expressed and recognition given to the operators, engineers, and maintenance staff who have supported the machine’s operation for many years.
Vulcan operates the Moatize Coal Mine and is a global company with operations spanning more than 25 countries and six continents. As one of Mozambique’s leading mining companies, Vulcan engages in coal mining and supply and contributes to the country’s industry and job creation.
The EX5500-6 that achieved this milestone was delivered in June 2010 and reached a cumulative 100,000 hours of operation in July 2026. The Moatize Coal Mine operates 24 hours a day and is known for challenging mine planning and excavation due to the complex geometry of its coal deposits.
Maintaining stable machine operation while ensuring safety and productivity therefore requires sophisticated operational management and maintenance systems. Reaching 100,000 hours of operation under these demanding conditions HCM said is a testament to the robustness and durability of its products.
Five Hitachi Construction Machinery ultra-large hydraulic excavators and 14 rigid dump trucks are currently in operation at the Moatize Coal Mine. Hitachi Construction Machinery Mozambique, which is in charge of sales and service in Mozambique, continuously provides on-site technical support, maintenance and repair services, and parts supply. Through machinery inspections and maintenance, repairs, parts supply, and on-site technical support, the company supports the customer’s stable operations and helps maintain high productivity.
HCM added: “The EX5500-6, which continues to operate even after exceeding 100,000 hours, is also a symbol of the strong, long-standing partnership between Vulcan and the Hitachi Construction Machinery Group. Going forward, the Hitachi Construction Machinery Group will continue to contribute to safe and efficient mining operations for customers by providing high-quality products and comprehensive after-sales service.”
Source: International Mining