Elphinstone R1500 LHD

R1500: first fully designed and manufactured LHD loader

Built on a passion for mining and manufacturing, it’s no surprise Elphinstone has been leading the way in equipment innovation and design for half a century.

Following an economic downturn in the mid-1980s, mining companies wanted to reduce their tunnel sizes, which required smaller machines with equal capacity.

In 1986, Elphinstone accepted the challenge and, in just 7 months, they produced and sold their first fully designed and manufactured load haul dump loader (LHD), the R1500.

The following year, Elphinstone sold its first R1500 overseas to Henderson Mine in the US - now owned by Freeport McMoRan.

Dale recalls negotiating with the purchasing team at Henderson Mine: “The guy said to me quietly, you realise that your machine price is double your competition, and I said back to him quietly, I had no idea what the price of our competition was, because we sell the value of our product and what it will do for you”.

Elphinstone replaced 36 of the competition’s loaders at Henderson with just 10 Elphinstone R1500 LHD loaders.

Henderson Mine, Colorado

The Henderson mine is near the Urad mine, which produced molybdenum from 1914 to the 1960s, before exhausting its orebody. Owner Climax Molybdenum Co. recognised the potential for deeper orebodies in the area, and discovered the Henderson deposit in 1964. The mine was named after mining engineer Robert Henderson.

Production began in 1976; on Jan. 4, 2010, workers mined the billionth pound of molybdenum. In 2006, remaining ore reserves were estimated to be 500 million pounds of recoverable molybdenum.

The Henderson mine was considered by the National Science Foundation as one of the two final candidates for the Deep Underground Science and Engineering Laboratory, but lost to the Homestake Mine in South Dakota.


Elphinstone 923 Tyre Handler

Tyre handler was safer and more efficient for operators

Manufactured in 1983 using a modified Caterpillar 920 wheel loader, the Elphinstone 923 Tyre Handler was a specialised piece of equipment designed to make changing tyres on underground equipment safer and more efficient for operators.

Elphinstone sold the 923 Tyre Handler to Renison Mine, located in Rosebery on the West Coast of Tasmania. Dale Elphinstone travelled to the mine to train the operators in person. The second owner was Dick Beckett, of Becketts, Exeter, Tasmania, where the machine presently resides.

The 923 Tyre Handler was one of 7 underground service units designed and manufactured by D.B. Elphinstone Pty Ltd in the 1980s. The range also included the 814 Underground Dozer, 980 Rock Bolter, 925 Scaling Unit, 925 Service Unit (with basket), 4000 Forklift Truck, and the AP20 Articulated Personnel Carrier.

Machine Record - 923 Tyre Handler

Machine history records show the following:

  • Based on: Cat 920 Wheel Loader
  • Machine serial #: 0507816
  • Engine serial no: 48V58580
  • Customer: Renison
  • Elphinstone job#: 1344
  • Delivery date: 31.10.1983

Renison Tin Operations

Tin was first discovered in the Renison Bell area in 1890 by George Renison Bell. In the 1930s, extensive exploration of the region led to a surge in mining activity.

In 1958, Mount Lyell Mining and Railway Company Limited acquired the site, investing in considerable infrastructure to bring mining activities into line with modern production methods.

Expansion continued well into the 1990s with ownership changing hands several times, but each investing in the modernisation of mining operations.

In the early 2000s, Renison Tin Operations was born under the operation of Bluestone Mines Tasmania Joint Venture, a partnership between Metals X Limited and Yunnan Tin Group.


Careers in STEM

What is STEM?

STEM is an approach to learning and development that integrates the areas of science, technology, engineering and mathematics. Through STEM and its pathways, students develop key skills including problem solving, creativity, critical analysis, teamwork, independent thinking, initiative, communication, and digital literacy.

Why is STEM important?

The global economy is changing. Current jobs are disappearing due to automation and new jobs are frequently emerging due to technological advances.

Advanced technology is changing how students learn, connect and interact. The skills students develop through STEM provide a foundation for success at school and beyond.

Employer demand for STEM qualifications has increased with new positions being created faster than they can be filled. Currently, 75 per cent of jobs in the fastest-growing industries require workers with STEM skills. For the Australian workforce to remain competitive, it needs people who can adapt to a changing workplace.

STEM empowers individuals with the skills to succeed and adapt to this changing world.

STEM Careers, Internships and Work Experience

Would you like to gain valuable experience working with the most successful name in Australian-produced underground mining equipment and add a well-respected reference to your resume?

Elphinstone provides internships for undergraduate students over the summer university break in engineering (December to February). Disciplines and engineering specialisations include, but are not limited to; Mechanical, Electrical, Electronics, Mechatronics, Manufacturing and Project Management.

Your time with us will allow you to apply your skills in real-life situations, and give you access to experts in your field.

Elphinstone can provide a better understanding of our industry and business, and help you choose your future career.

Engineering Specialisations

Mechatronics Engineering is multidisciplinary and deals with integrating electrical and mechanical systems. It can include a combination of robotics, electronics, computing, telecommunications, systems, control, product engineering, and electronics to create functional, smart products. Some of the indicative activities that may be undertaken when practising mechatronics engineering are:

  • develop solutions to industrial problems
  • product design, development and testing
  • automation
  • manufacturing
  • by-wire technologies for vehicles
  • modelling and simulation
  • motion control
  • teaching and training.

Mechatronics Engineers usually have applied knowledge in engineering, physics, and maths. They tend to be creative thinkers with complex problem-solving and advanced analytical skills.

Electrical Engineering deals with electricity generation, transmission, distribution, electrical equipment manufacture, instrumentation and control systems. Some of the indicative activities that may be undertaken when practising electrical engineering are:

  • design
  • development
  • installation
  • maintenance
  • manufacture
  • operation
  • research.

Electrical Engineers enjoy maths, physics, computers and electronic equipment. They also have an interest in problem-solving, innovative thinking and embracing new technologies.

Mechanical Engineering deals with the application of the principles of engineering and physics with the study of advanced materials for the design, analysis, manufacturing, and maintenance of mechanical systems. Some of the indicative activities that may be undertaken when practising mechanical engineering are:

  • consultancy
  • design
  • development
  • installation
  • maintenance
  • manufacture
  • operations
  • project management
  • research
  • testing.

Mechanical engineering suits people with an aptitude for technology, machines and tools, technical design and physics. Good communication and teamwork skills are important.

Electronics Engineering deals with scientific and engineering design to develop computer modelling tools, sophisticated electronics, hardware, software and control systems for machines & communications.

Some of the indicative activities that may be undertaken when practising electronics engineering are:

  • design and documentation
  • installation, testing and commissioning
  • manufacture and supply
  • operation and maintenance
  • quality assurance
  • research and development
  • teaching and training.

Electronic Engineers enjoy working with computers but are also avid problem solvers, innovative thinkers and quickly adapt to new technologies.

Project Management deals with the discipline of initiating, planning, executing, controlling, and closing the work of a team to achieve specific goals and meet specific success criteria. Some of the indicative activities that may be undertaken when practising project management are to:

  • Understand the requirements of clients, wide-ranging stakeholders and society as a whole
  • Work to optimise social, environmental and economic outcomes over the full lifetime of the engineering project, program or process.
  • Exercise high-level business skills to identify cost, scope and time issues and develop an approach to ensure project delivery within the confines of the project constraints.
  • Ensure that technical and non-technical considerations are properly integrated.
  • Bring knowledge to bear from multiple sources to develop solutions to complex projects and inform project team members to apply those solutions effectively.
  • Exercise the necessary leadership to ensure that the engineering contribution is properly integrated into the totality of the project.
  • Interact effectively with other disciplines, professions and people.
  • Interpret technological possibilities for society, business and government.
  • Manage risk as well as sustainability issues in the delivery of projects.
  • Understand clearly how new developments relate to established practice and experience and to other disciplines with which they may interact.

Core qualities of a successful project manager include strong leadership abilities, excellent communication skills, adaptability to change, attention to detail, decisiveness, emotional intelligence & risk management skills.

For Students and Parents

If interested in Work Experience please speak with your school coordinator. We will always endeavour to accommodate the selected dates (ensuring at least 1-month notice is given), but unfortunately, this may not be possible in some instances. We will work with your school on an alternative if possible.

Before starting you (along with your parents and school) must complete the relevant paperwork or online modules provided.

For Schools

  • Adequate timeframe - Elphinstone requires a minimum of one (1) month's notice for all Work Experience (Work Placement) requests. Please note that there is no guarantee on certain dates, but we will do our best to find a solution if the requested dates are unavailable.
  • Paperwork - Before placement can be confirmed, all paperwork must be signed by the student, parents, and the school.
  • Insurance - Students must be covered by the school's liability insurance to be placed in the Elphinstone Work Experience Program. All schools must provide evidence of adequate insurance coverage before placement can be undertaken.

To find out more about our Work Experience and Internships, please call our Human Resources team on +61 3 6442 7777 or email careers@elphinstone.com

Elphinstone Pty Ltd is an equal opportunity employer committed to providing a working environment that embraces and values diversity and inclusion.


Elphinstone E15 Delivery

Maximum Payload

16,620 kg

GVM 35,860 kg

Engine

Cat C7.1 ACERT

Tier 3 - Standard / Tier 4 Final - Optional

Gross Power Tier 3

168kW/228hp

Tier 4 Final 151kW/202hp

Rated Lift Capacity

8.8 TM

7.7 m Outreach

New E15 Delivery for day-to-day heavy lifting

Choosing the right support vehicle for an underground mining operation can significantly increase the productivity of the production fleet and reduce operational costs.

The E15 Delivery is the second model in the series to be released, adding another application to the existing range of Elphinstone E10 Underground Hard Rock Support Vehicles (formerly WR810) and rapidly expanding E15 underground support fleet.

Elphinstone’s new range of E15 underground support vehicles are designed to thrive in the harshest underground hard rock mining environments.

Safe and effective load handling

The fully integrated Hiab X-HiDuo 092 crane features a rated lifting capacity of 8.8-tonne metre (TM) and a 7.7-metre outreach, providing an impressive and reliable solution for day-to-day heavy lifting.

Safety features include emergency crane stops on the manual control station, a wireless joystick remote and preset exclusion zones.

The stabiliser legs manually pivot and extend featuring levelling sensors and park brake interlock that provide a safe foundation with easy pack up for safe transit.

Machine dimensions

E15 Agitator Machine Dimensions
(Select image to enlarge)

Impressive payload

With a payload of 16,620 kilograms, the E15 Delivery ensures parts, components, equipment, and maintenance personnel are transported safely and securely throughout the mine.

The 4.5m by 2.5m deck features a steel tread plate floor bordered by multiple tie-down points and provision for ratchet load binders. Dual-sided three-point access with high-visibility green handrails is enhanced with a cleverly designed removable guard rail system with onboard storage.

Other features include five storage compartments and a hand wash dispenser.

Machine Commonality

The cab chassis is common to all E15 models and can be easily configured to suit your mine site application requirements. The high number of common configurable parts and components allows for reduced part stocking, plus simplified maintenance and operation. The E15 components provide a high level of reliability, durability and superior parts availability worldwide through the global Cat dealer network.

Front-mounted cab with a 180-degree view

At 2.4m high, the front-mounted operator cabin features 3-person seating, air conditioning, an ergonomic central driving position with a clear 180-degree view, and a dial controller for the retarder, speed and implement controls. Operator comfort and convenience are further enhanced with an air-cooled compartment for lunch box storage, cupholders and smartphone charging ports.

High level of operator comfort

The A-frame front axle suspension, oscillating hitch and air-suspended seats deliver a high level of machine comfort to the operator and passengers.  The oscillating hitch ensures 4-wheel ground contact and reduced wear on the hitch and steering components. Nitrogen-charged hydraulic suspension cylinders and A-frame provide superior front axle ride quality over rough terrain.

Shared engine front frame

Common to the E15 and E10 range, the engine front frame can accommodate optional Cat C7.1 Tier 3 or Tier 4 Final engine arrangements featuring Caterpillar’s breakthrough ACERT™ Technology to meet exhaust emission reduction standards.

The engine’s efficient fuel delivery, air management, and electronic control lead to high productivity and exceptional service life. An optional full-flow DPF may be fitted in place of the standard muffler and catalytic converter on Tier 3 models.

All engine and machine isolation functions are conveniently located on one panel accessible from ground level on the left-hand side.

Common rear frame

All of the application modules pin and bolt to the common rear frame. The frame is adaptable for multiple applications With 16.00R20 tyres, heavy-duty axles and different weight distribution, the machine has greater carrying capacity.

High-capacity electromagnetic retarder

Fitted as standard to the rear frame is a high-capacity electromagnetic retarder which provides superior braking performance on grade, and diagnostic capabilities with alarm and fault conditions reported back to the 12-inch touchscreen operator display.

The integrated Retarder Control System (iRCS) combines control and power functions into a single unit. The innovative electronic design significantly reduces the retarder’s energy consumption, preserving electric circuits.

Speed control

The E15 also features ‘speed control’ whereby the operator can set the maximum speed on grade and the machine uses the retarder and the inertia of the powertrain to maintain the speed. When on flat ground the operator can accelerate over the maximum set speed, but when the accelerator pedal is released, the machine speed will revert to the original maximum speed setting.

Front and rear hydraulic jacks

An optional feature of the E15 is the front and rear hydraulic jacks. The front jacks operate with a “park” function allowing the operator to exit the cabin while the machine is operating. The rear jacks are used to level or lift the machine for discharge. All jacks can lift the machine off the ground for changing tyres.

Ground-level access for servicing

All service points such as tanks, filters, lubrication points and compartment drains are conveniently located at ground level for servicing.

Downtime during service and maintenance is reduced markedly on the E15 due to clever engineering and design features, incorporated with service personnel in mind.

Quick change air filters and 500-hour engine oil service intervals reduce downtime and keep machines in operation longer for greater productivity. A centralised onboard service centre includes fast fill, evacuation, and fluid sample points for analysis.

Summary of key features:

  • A fully integrated Hiab X-HiDuo 092 crane features a rated lifting capacity of 8.8-tonne metre (TM) and a 7.7-metre outreach, providing an impressive and reliable solution for day-to-day heavy lifting.
  • A 4.5m by 2.5m deck featuring a steel tread plate floor bordered by multiple tie-down points and provision for ratchet load binders.
  • Maximum payload of 16,620 kilograms,
  • Front-mounted 3-person operator cabin (Height of 2445mm).
  • Air conditioning.
  • Centre driving position with a clear 180-degree view.
  • A dial controller is located on the operator's armrest for retarder and implement control.
  • Air-cooled compartment for lunch box storage, cupholders and phone charging ports.
  • Caterpillar C7.1 Tier 3 or Caterpillar C7.1 Tier 4 Final engine.
  • Excellent manoeuvrability and turning circle.
  • Outstanding ride and handling.
  • Common front frame, engine, and transmission, with the E10 model.
  • A-frame front suspension with nitrogen-filled suspension cylinders.
  • Oscillating hitch to ensure all wheels maintain contact with the road surface.
  • A high-capacity electromagnetic retarder is standard on all E15 configurations.
  • Speed control for maximum speed on grade.
  • Common rear frame for multiple applications.
  • 16.00R20 tyres and heavy-duty axles are standard.
  • Optional full-flow DPF can be fitted in place of standard muffler and catalytic converter on Tier 3 models.
  • Optional front and rear hydraulic jacks.
  • Air-ride seats for the operator are standard and optional for passengers.
  • A 12-inch touchscreen with onboard advanced diagnostics is a standard feature.
  • Optional in-cabin filtration complying with ISO23875.

Battery Electric

Leveraging its existing portfolio of underground support vehicles, Elphinstone is developing Battery Electric Vehicles (BEV) in collaboration with its customers and supply chain partners.

The vision is to provide a Battery Electric Vehicle solution at the forefront of technology whilst maintaining a reputation for high quality, premium and reliable products, well-positioned and recognised globally in the underground hard-rock mining industry.

Please contact your Elphinstone Regional Sales & Support Manager or your local Cat dealer for more information.


Elphinstone E15 Agitator 7m3

Gross Vehicle Mass

35,860 kg

Engine

Cat C7.1 ACERT

Tier 3 - Standard / Tier 4 Final - Optional

Gross Power Tier 3

168kW/228hp

Tier 4 Final 151kW/202hp

Drum Volume

7m3 Capacity

Nominal Capacity

Outstanding ride and handling with excellent manoeuvrability

Elphinstone's new E15 Agitator is a welcome addition to the existing range of Elphinstone E10 Underground Hard Rock Support Vehicles (formerly WR810). The significance of the E15 model number is 'E' represents Elphinstone, and '15' indicates the nominal capacity in metric tonnes (depending on the configuration).

Built to thrive in the harsh underground environment, the first E15 models to be released include the E15 Agitator 7m3 (pictured), E15 Delivery (with optional 8.8 TM crane) with optional deck configurations, and E15 Tilt Tray. Additional models are being developed and will be released in the future.

Headlining the E15 series is the Agitator 7m3, built to thrive in harsh underground hard rock mining conditions, providing outstanding ride and handling with excellent manoeuvrability and turning circle.

Machine Commonality

The cab chassis is common to all E15 models and can be easily configured to suit your mine site application requirements. The high number of common configurable parts and components allows for reduced part stocking, plus simplified maintenance and operation. The E15 components provide a high level of reliability, durability and superior parts availability worldwide through the global Cat dealer network.

Front-mounted cab with a 180-degree view

At 2.4m high, the front-mounted operator cabin features 3-person seating, air conditioning, an ergonomic central driving position with a clear 180-degree view, and a dial controller for the retarder, speed and implement controls. Operator comfort and convenience are further enhanced with an air-cooled compartment for lunch box storage, cupholders and smartphone charging ports.

High level of operator comfort

The A-frame front axle suspension, oscillating hitch, and air-suspended seats deliver a high level of machine comfort to the operator and passengers.  The oscillating hitch ensures 4-wheel ground contact and reduced wear on the hitch and steering components. Nitrogen-charged hydraulic suspension cylinders and A-frame provide superior front axle ride quality over rough terrain.

Machine dimensions

E15 Agitator Machine Dimensions
(Select image to enlarge)

Shared engine front frame

Common to the E15 and E10 range, the engine front frame can accommodate optional Cat C7.1 Tier 3 or Tier 4 Final engine arrangements featuring Caterpillar’s breakthrough ACERT™ Technology to meet exhaust emission reduction standards.

The engine’s efficient fuel delivery, air management, and electronic control lead to high productivity and exceptional service life. An optional full-flow DPF may be fitted in place of the standard muffler and catalytic converter on Tier 3 models.

All engine and machine isolation functions are conveniently located on one panel accessible from ground level on the left-hand side.

Common rear frame

All the application modules pin and or bolt to the common rear frame, including the 7m3 agitator bowl. The frame is adaptable for multiple applications With 16.00R20 tyres, heavy-duty axles and different weight distribution, the machine has greater carrying capacity.

High-capacity electromagnetic retarder

Fitted as standard to the rear frame is a high-capacity electromagnetic retarder which provides superior braking performance on grade, and diagnostic capabilities with alarm and fault conditions reported back to the 12-inch touchscreen operator display.

The integrated Retarder Control System (iRCS) combines control and power functions into a single unit. The innovative electronic design significantly reduces the retarder’s energy consumption, preserving electric circuits.

Speed control

The E15 also features ‘speed control’ whereby the operator can set the maximum speed on grade and the machine uses the retarder and the inertia of the powertrain to maintain the speed. When on flat ground the operator can accelerate over the maximum set speed, but when the accelerator pedal is released, the machine speed will revert to the original maximum speed setting.

Front and rear hydraulic jacks

An optional feature of the E15 is the front and rear hydraulic jacks. The front jacks operate with a “park” function to enable the operator to safely exit the cabin with the engine operating. The rear jacks are used to level or lift the machine for discharge. All jacks can lift the machine off the ground for changing tyres.

Ground-level access for servicing

All service points such as tanks, filters, lubrication points and compartment drains are conveniently located at ground level for servicing.

Downtime during service and maintenance is reduced markedly on the E15 due to clever engineering and design features, incorporated with service personnel in mind.

Quick change air filters and 500-hour oil service intervals reduce downtime and keep machines in operation longer for greater productivity. A centralised onboard service centre includes fast fill, evacuation, and fluid sample points for analysis.

Summary of key features:

  • Front-mounted 3-person operator cabin (Height of 2445mm).
  • Air conditioning.
  • Centre driving position with a clear 180-degree view.
  • A dial controller is located on the operator's armrest for retarder and implement control.
  • An air-cooled compartment for lunch box storage, cupholders and phone charging ports.
  • Caterpillar C7.1 Tier 3 or Caterpillar C7.1 Tier 4 Final engine.
  • 7m3 Agitator Bowl Carrying Capacity
  • Excellent manoeuvrability and turning circle.
  • Outstanding ride and handling.
  • Common front frame, engine, and transmission, with the E10 model.
  • A-frame front suspension with nitrogen-filled suspension cylinders.
  • Oscillating hitch to ensure all wheels maintain contact with the road surface.
  • A high-capacity electromagnetic retarder is standard on all E15 configurations.
  • Speed control for maximum speed on grade.
  • Common rear frame for multiple applications.
  • 16.00R20 tyres and heavy-duty axles are standard.
  • An optional partial-flow DPF can be fitted in place of standard muffler and catalytic converter on Tier 3 models.
  • Front and rear hydraulic jacks are optional.
  • Air-ride seats for the operator are standard and optional for passengers.
  • A 12-inch touch screen with onboard advanced diagnostics is a standard feature.
  • Optional in-cabin filtration complying with ISO23875.

Battery Electric

Leveraging its existing portfolio of underground support vehicles, Elphinstone is developing Battery Electric Vehicles (BEV) in collaboration with its customers and supply chain partners.

The vision is to provide a Battery Electric Vehicle solution at the forefront of technology whilst maintaining a reputation for high quality, premium and reliable products, well-positioned and recognised globally in the underground hard-rock mining industry.

Please contact your Elphinstone Regional Sales & Support Manager or your local Cat dealer for more information.


Board of Directors

Dale Elphinstone, Elphinstone Pty Ltd

Dale Elphinstone

Executive Chairman and Founder

Dale Elphinstone has never been afraid of a challenge. He often tells people “We did it because we didn’t know we couldn’t”.

Dale's relationship with Caterpillar began in 1966 at 15 as an apprentice with Victorian and Tasmanian Cat Dealer, William Adams. He then was employed as a Field Service Mechanic across Tasmanian and King Island mine sites and later worked for Canadian Cat Dealer, Finning for 2 years.

Now, just 40 years later, Dale has established Elphinstone as a recognised Cat OEM, manufacturing Haulmax 3900 series off-highway haul trucks, Railmax RMT15F road-rail excavators and Elphinstone underground support vehicles.

Kelly Elphinstone, Non-Executive Director

Kelly Elphinstone

Non-Executive Director

Kelly is an Executive Director of the Elphinstone Group, a private, family-owned global enterprise which today consists of ten operating businesses and substantial property and equity portfolios.

Involved with the Elphinstone Group for over 30 years, Kelly is either a Director or the Chair on the Boards of all operating businesses within her responsibility, including ASX-listed company Engenco Limited.

Kelly also maintains the Group’s Government relations.

Outside of the Elphinstone Group, Kelly is a Member of the Young President’s Organisation (YPO) and Chief Executive Women (CEW).

Kelly is also a Director of the Tasmanian Mining, Manufacturing and Energy Council and a member of the Tasmanian Defence Industry Advisory Committee (DIAC).

Warren Young, Elphinstone Pty Ltd

Warren Young

Managing Director

Warren commenced his career with Dale B Elphinstone Pty Ltd (Underground Mining) in January 1989 as a cadet, combining on the job experience with Mechanical Engineering studies.

The company continued to expand globally as Warren worked extensively in research, development, and design, culminating in a Senior Management oversight role for several years prior to the sale of the business to Caterpillar Inc. in 2000.

Continuing with the Elphinstone Group, Warren was appointed the role of Managing Director at William Adams Caterpillar, combining considerable leadership experience and engineering knowledge in heavy equipment applications.

In February 2021, Warren was appointed Managing Director of Elphinstone Pty Ltd, overseeing the company’s product development, sales, and manufacturing activities. Warren holds several Elphinstone Group Directorships including the oversight of Phu Thai Cat, the Caterpillar Dealer in Vietnam.


Elphinstone MED210 / MED360

Eliminate unsafe extractions with the proven Elphinstone MED

The Elphinstone Mine Extraction Device (MED) has been designed, manufactured and engineer-certified with a pulling capacity of up to 360 Tonnes. The MED was developed for the extraction of bogged or buried underground equipment. Elphinstone is the OEM and owns the intellectual property. The Elphinstone MED has performed hundreds of safe, efficient and successful extractions in several underground mining operations (coal and hard rock) throughout Australia.

Available in two pulling capacities

The MED is available in 210-tonne and 360-tonne capacities. The MED210 and MED360 were developed in line with industry growth. In addition to buried equipment retrieval, the higher capacity models can extract drill rods embedded in the rock face.

Please Note: All configurations sold prior to Elphinstone ownership are supported.

Minimises disruptions to mining operations

Mining operations can continue relatively uninterrupted during the extraction process with the Elphinstone MED.

The Elphinstone MED eliminates traditional recovery methods that result in production disruptions when other mining equipment (LHDs and or trucks) is used to conduct the recovery.

By using the MED, production equipment does not experience any damage, wear and tear plus the hazards associated with personnel working around mobile equipment in close quarters are reduced significantly.

Insurance support for proven system

The unique retrieval system has the support of numerous insurance companies with the recognition that if this system cannot retrieve a buried loader then the loader is not retrievable.

'Puller' Capabilities and Specifications

Features Include:

  • Pulling capacity of up to 360 Tonnes (MED360).
  • The extendable boom allows use in a range of underground operations.
  • Easy to tow into place and set up.
  • Operating pressure 180 bar, flow rate of 40-100 litres per minute.
  • Control pedestal and pilot valve.
  • Optional remote control.
  • Winch to assist rack positioning.
  • Cranes to assist in positioning racks (MED360 only).

Elphinstone and WesTrac partnership drives fleet upgrades at CSA Mine Cobar

Operating up to 2km underground in one of Australia’s deepest copper mines makes for potentially tough working conditions. But Elphinstone’s partnership with WesTrac to provide state-of-the-art machinery to Glencore’s CSA Mine near Cobar meets the challenges with aplomb.

Access to modern, robust equipment that can withstand the harsh, hot underground environment and perform to high standards is front of mind for CSA Mine’s Mobile Mechanic Superintendent Peter Patton and his 88-strong team of trades and planning experts.

Read more

Work Experience and Internships

Internships & Work Experience

Work Experience and Internships

Would you like to gain valuable experience working with the most successful name in Australian-produced underground mining equipment and add a well-respected reference to your resume?

Elphinstone provides internships for undergraduate students over the summer university break (December to February) in engineering. Disciplines and engineering specialisations include, but are not limited to; Mechanical, Electrical, Electronics, Mechatronics, Manufacturing and Project Management.

Your time with us will see you using your skills in real-life situations, and give you access to experts in your field.

We also offer work experience to secondary school students from February to November, with placements available in Fabrication, Assembly, Logistics and Warehousing, and Finance and Administration.

Elphinstone will provide a better understanding of our industry and business, and help you choose your future career.

For Students and Parents

If interested in Work Experience please speak with your school coordinator. We will always endeavour to accommodate the selected dates (ensuring at least 1-month notice is given), but unfortunately, this may not be possible in some instances. We will work with your school on an alternative if possible.

Before starting you (along with your parents and school) must complete the relevant paperwork or online modules provided.

For Schools

  • Adequate timeframe - Elphinstone requires a minimum of 1 month's notice for all Work Experience (Work Placement) requests. Please note that there is no guarantee on certain dates, but we will do our best to find a solution if the requested dates are unavailable.
  • Paperwork - All paperwork must be signed by the student, parents and the school before placement can be confirmed.
  • Insurance - To be placed in the Elphinstone Work Experience Program, students must be covered by the school's liability insurance. All schools are required to provide evidence of adequate insurance coverage before placement can be undertaken.

To find out more about our Work Experience and Internships, please call our Human Resources team on +61 3 6442 7777 or email careers@elphinstone.com

Elphinstone Pty Ltd is an equal opportunity employer committed to providing a working environment that embraces and values diversity and inclusion.


Introducing the new Elphinstone W35 Water Tank Module

Built to perform in the harshest mining conditions

The Elphinstone W35 water tank module is designed to fit a Caterpillar 740C, 745C and 745 bare chassis in place of factory applications. The module incorporates a robust under body structure that plays a crucial role in ensuring the tank shell is properly supported. All Elphinstone design and manufacturing processes consider the actual working conditions of the mining applications the water truck will be operating in.

Read more