New automated SmartROC D65 drill rig
Epiroc launch updated rig featuring their innovative automation-ready platform as its foundation
WITH automation technology transforming the mining industry and empowering drilling operations across the globe, Epiroc say their updated SmartROC D65 is the latest drill rig to make evolutionary strides. The tried and trusted rig now has Epiroc’s innovative automation-ready platform as its foundation.
According to Epiroc, the new SmartROC D65 has the intelligence and power to consistently and efficiently drill high-quality blastholes with accuracy and precision, and is loaded with smart features such as automated drilling and rod handling.
The automation-ready platform also includes the new Auto Feed Fold feature. At the press of a button, Auto Feed Fold allows the operator to fold the feed for tramming or position it for drilling. This is also particularly useful when operating one or more drill rigs remotely.
‘The SmartROC D65 really proves the power of autonomous machinery and brings the future of mining within reach today,’ said Mattias Hjerpe, global product manager at Epiroc. ‘Automation is revolutionizing the industry, and we want our customers to remain at the forefront to secure the rewards.’
The SmartROC D65 is available in three different feed beam sizes to carry 5-, 6- or 8-metre pipes and has the capacity to drill down to a depth of 56m. When using 8m pipes, it is possible to drill a 16m production hole with the addition of just one rod. The added power of the COP M7 hammer allows the SmartROC D65 to drill holes from 110–229mm in diameter.
Thanks to intelligent control of compressor load and engine rev/min, the SmartROC D65 not only helps to optimize the blasting process with improved fragmentation, but it also reduces an already low fuel consumption rate by a further 20% compared with the same size FlexiROC rig model. In addition, the rig offers multi-function joysticks and adjustable-speed tramming to further improve operator comfort and make trailer loading safer and easier.
‘The new SmartROC D65 will help our customers to decrease operational costs and boost productivity,’ said Mr Hjerpe. ‘Automation translates to greater efficiency, and efficiency translates to greater profits.’
The operator interacts with the rig’s advanced control system via a responsive, 15in touchscreen that presents everything from drilling parameters and diagnostics to real-time Measure While Drilling data (MWD).
In addition, the updated SmartROC D65 is equipped with an efficient hydraulic system that reduces fuel burn and works with fewer pumps and hoses than the previous versions. The new SmartROC D65 uses 300 litres less hydraulic oil than previous versions.
As other new features and improvements are released, they can easily be installed via software upgrades to keep the SmartROC D65 up to date and at all times. The new SmartROC D65 will premiere at Bauma in Munich, from 8–14 April.
Furthermore, another intelligent new rig from Epiroc, the SmartROC D60, has been updated with the new automation-ready platform. This robust and dependable surface drill rig features a shorter boom specially designed for efficient and demanding quarry work.
