Tow hitch for underground mines

According to Soto, the single-man operated tow hitch increases the operator’s control while towing by maximising turning, tilt and elevation deviation capabilities whilst maintaining rigid connection between vehicles.

The Safety Tow Hitch has the following features:
•    Rotating tongue to accommodate variations in floor surfaces and stabilise the vehicle.
•    Turnbuckles, to stabilise the hitch during attachment.
•    Elimination of draw bars.
•    Additional steering and braking kit.

Mechanical engineer for Centennial Coal's Myuna Mine, Barry Moore, partnered in the development of the tow hitch. He said the product has proved itself in practical tests.

“Myuna has trialled the tow hitch and found it to be a very responsive and controlled system for towing a shuttle car.

“The braking and steering for the shuttle car is controlled by the vehicle doing the towing, this allows the person driving to be removed from the operation.

“The tow hitch has a good level of control, operates in three different planes, is adaptable around corners and importantly maintains a rigid connection between the vehicles.”
Contact: www.sotogroup.com.au/towhitch