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Company Profile
(Coal
People Magazine August 2002 Issue)
by Mack Blackwell
Damascus
Corporation Rolls Out
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New
Diesel
Transporters
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| Mac
3D |
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Two
new diesel-powered underground personnel carriers are being introduced
by Damascus Corporation in the beautiful green hills of Southwest
Virginia. "But they're not for golf courses," jokes Walter
M. Stewart, Damascus founder and president. "They're our latest
MAC-8DI and MAC-3DI personnel carriers designed for transporting
personnel underground, primarily in coal mining operations, and
they fill a broad spectrum of payload needs, ranging from two to
ten passengers."
The
Damascus winning design philosophy is 'Simpler is Stronger.' Starting
with the proven dependability of hydrostatic drive, a concept tried
and field-proven by Damascus since 1992, these designs have increasingly
emphasized a rugged hydrostatic transmission. While automotive type
transmissions are slipping and overheating, this hydrostatic transmission
system is enduring the harshest emissions load testing year after
year. Thanks to its closed loop, high-performance transmission system
it has been used daily for years on grades up to 18%.
| Mac
8D |
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But
hydrostatic drive is just one of several outstanding design features
of these contemporary machines. Traction is yet another. Stewart
says. "Three quarters of the MAC-8DI's weight is located over
the drive wheels, providing excellent traction in almost all normally-encountered
conditions. For extreme conditions, the drive wheel motors can be
locked together, through an optional traction lock valve, for an
integral positive traction system."
The
brawny 41 horsepower 4LC1 Isuzu powerplant, backed by a 60-month
Major Engine Component Warranty by American Isuzu Motors Inc., has
been strategically located in the rear, putting the effects of fumes,
heat and noise away from the operator and passengers. The Damascus
radiator cooling system is driven by the engine itself. Problem-prone
electric add-on fans were avoided for reliability purposes. This
provides efficiency and simplicity.
As
a precautionary design measure, both new units boast an "over-temperature"
circuit that shuts the engine down when necessary, increasing engine
life and reducing engine wear.
"Being
able to 'stop on a dime' is just as important
as being able to move personnel comfortably..."
"Being
able to 'stop on a dime' is just as important as being able to move
personnel comfortably. The torque-hub wheel units contain built-in
enclosed wet-multi-disk brakes. This system is backed up by a maintenance-free
hold-back service brake. Again, simplicity is the key: depress the
tramming pedal to go; release the tramming pedal to stop, "
noted Stewart.
But
there's more to Damascus Corporation's new diesel personnel transporters
than engines, wheels and brakes. There's ruggedness. There's attention
to detail. A strong tubular frame, designed for years of rugged
use, embraces the occupants and the componentry. And all Damascus
transporters are built by caring, experienced craftsmen who take
considerable pride in every unit they build.
But
don't just take Damascus's word for it. Give them a call at 800-390-7635
and they will be glad to give you the opportunity to kick the tires
and see for yourself. If you wish to learn more about Damascus Corporation
on the Internet, visit our web page at www.damascuscorp.com.
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