Epiroc RCS update benefits SmartROC top-hammer cabin rigs

07 June, 2024

The Epiroc SmartROC T45 top-hammer drill rig

Rig Control System update offers significant new features for SmartROC T35, T40 and T45 rigs

VALUABLE new features are now available on all Epiroc MkII SmartROC top-hammer cabin drill rigs. The additions are accessed via a new version of Epiroc’s Rig Control System (RCS) and will benefit the rigs with a number of improvements and a more stable RCS.

SmartROC top-hammer cabin rigs can now access RCS version 6.27, which will increase productivity through the ability to use features such as One Hole Automatic (OHA). The new RCS version also delivers additional automation, which will help reduce wear on consumables and can save money. Furthermore, there will be added value for customers, as the update has the potential to increase the functionality of their existing SmartROC cabin rigs.

Ulf Gyllander, global product manager at Epiroc, said: ‘The SmartROC T35, T40, and T45 will profit from these extra benefits due to this upgrade. The rigs will have access to improved drill plan handling, a possibility to enable auto hole reset, high-altitude functionality, easier-to-read fuel consumption, and improved information around drill functions related to anti-jamming, in the display.’

The new update for RCS enables OHA, creating the possibility to drill down to the desired depth, adding rods automatically as required with minimal intervention from the operator. Once the hole is complete the rig will pull up all the rods automatically. OHA is already available on SmartROC down-the-hole (DTH) machines, as well as the SmartROC CL and SmartROC C50.

With the new RCS update, OHA is now available as an option on the SmartROC T35, T40, and T45. By increasing automation it will mean more time spent drilling and less time spent changing rods. It will also deliver greater consistency in operations, reducing wear on valuable consumables.

Epiroc global product manager Mattias Hjerpe commented: ‘The SmartROC D50, D55, D60, D65, and SmartROC C50, already include many of the benefits coming from this new RCS version. However, as a result of this upgrade, these rigs will feature an improved automatic rod-handling sequence which further optimizes OHA and minimizes operator input.’