Liebherr Mining launches fuel-efficient R 9300 Generation 8 Excavator

The latest addition to Liebherr Mining's range, the R 9300 Generation 8 excavator, is now available for purchase internationally. Expected to begin serial production in 2024, the backhoe configuration will be available in the first quarter, followed by the face shovel configuration in the second quarter. This new excavator is set to replace the R 9250 in Liebherr's lineup of 250 metric ton excavators. Customers got their first glimpse of this machine at Bauma 2022 in Munich.

As the second Generation 8 excavator in Liebherr's product line, the R 9300 comes equipped with the latest Liebherr Mining technology as standard. These technological advancements offer improved on-site performance, compatibility with Liebherr's Assistance Systems, and potential future enhancements such as automation, zero-emission technologies, and digital services.

The R 9300 prioritises fuel efficiency without compromising productivity and performance. It features Liebherr Power Efficiency (LPE), an exclusive engine and hydraulics management system that reduces fuel consumption by 15 per cent compared to its predecessor, the R 9250. This decrease in fuel consumption leads to a 25 per cent increase in fuel efficiency. Liebherr is also developing an electric-drive version of the R 9300 to further enhance fuel efficiency, which will be available soon.

The R 9300 incorporates various design improvements to boost productivity and efficiency. It boasts an updated attachment design that is both lighter and stronger than that of the R 9250, including a new stick and boom design and aluminum covers, all provided as standard. These enhancements have allowed for increased bucket size in both the backhoe and face shovel configurations.

With standard bucket sizes of 16.5 cubic meters and 16 cubic meters in the backhoe and face shovel configurations, respectively; the R 9300 is well-suited to match trucks with payloads ranging from 100 to 180 metric tons. Furthermore, it shares parts commonality with Liebherr's current excavators, reducing maintenance costs and simplifying inventory management. The lifespan of the R 9300 has also been extended to 60,000 hours, a 33 per cent increase compared to its predecessor, aligning better with the service life of major components.

Operators will appreciate the enhanced ergonomic design of the new cab, featuring larger touchscreens, a redesigned control panel, and optimal visibility.

Before its release to customers, the R 9300 underwent rigorous testing. Liebherr Mining collaborated with Karunia, a mining contractor based in East Kalimantan, Indonesia, to validate the new machine. A pre-series unit of the R 9300 was operated by Karunia at the Tabang mine, removing and loading overburden into 100- and 130-tonne trucks. During this phase, the R 9300 achieved an average of 486 operational hours per month and an availability rate of 94 per cent, surpassing Karunia's performance benchmarks.

In March 2023, an additional production study was conducted, revealing impressive results for the R 9300. The excavator achieved an average cycle time of 26 seconds, resulting in instantaneous productivity of 1,371 bank cubic meters (BCM) per hour (equivalent to 3,017 metric tons per hour) and a fuel efficiency ratio of 9.22 BCM per liter of fuel burned.