Epiroc to reveal SmartROC T35 E at bauma
Company to present its first-ever battery-electric surface top-hammer drill rig in Munich
THE first-ever top-hammer battery-electric drill rig from Epiroc, the SmartROC T35 E, will be presented at next week’s bauma 2022 show in Munich. The rig is seen an important step in the shift towards zero-emission drilling in surface mines and quarries all over the world.
The design of SmartROC T35 E is based on the well-proven SmartROC T35 surface drill rig. Utilizing invaluable experience gained from the development of Epiroc underground battery rigs, the new surface rig is designed to enhance the environmental standards of quarries and larger construction sites.
As well as its low emissions, the rig will provide a range of smart features and deliver high safety, reliability, and performance – in a quieter working environment.
‘We are proud to present this rig at bauma. It’s a product that indicates an important step in our shift to low-carbon operations within quarries and large construction applications,’ said Hakan Aytekin, vice-president of marketing, Epiroc Surface division.
‘The fact that we are removing emissions from the drilling process is an important step towards a better environment. This accomplishment shows that Epiroc have an important role to play in making our industry more sustainable.’
The SmartROC T35 E rig is equipped with both a battery and an electric cable, which improves flexibility. Operators can choose to drill with the most suitable alternative for the location and occasion. It also allows for quick and smooth transportation within and between sites.
The surface drill rig is fitted with the same type of well-proven batteries and subcomponents as in Epiroc’s underground battery solutions, thereby streamlining spare parts handling and service for customers with several different operations.
‘The SmartROC T35 E is a result of a successful collaboration between Epiroc and our customers. They have provided us with valuable input, making sure we deliver a rig with optimized performance and flexibility,’ said Ulf Gyllander, global product manager for top-hammer drill rigs, Epiroc Surface division.
With customer benefits including emissions-free operations, reduced noise pollution and vibration, and higher productivity, Epiroc’s battery-electric solutions are said to be attracting strong interest from the market.
The machines also play a vital role in Epiroc’s ambitious sustainability goals for 2030, which include halving CO2 emissions in operations and from sold products. In 2021, these goals were validated by the Science Based Targets initiative as being in line with keeping global warming at a maximum 1.5°C, consistent with the goal of the Paris Climate Agreement.
Epiroc say they are determined to offer their full range of underground equipment in an emission-free version by 2025, whilst for surface equipment they aim to offer the same by 2030.
