Singleton Birch choose Epiroc FlexiROC D50
Lime operator replaces 16-year-old ROC F6 drill rig with more fuel-efficient and productive model
WHEN leading lime suppliers Singleton Birch were looking to replace their 16-year-old ROC F6 drill rig, the priority was to improve the output and sustainability of the operation at their Melton Ross quarries in North Lincolnshire. Having been more than satisfied with the performance of the F6, they turned to Epiroc for advice and a long-term solution, and are already delighted with the performance of their new FlexiROC D50.
Having relied upon the ROC F6 down-the-hole drill rig for nearly 16 years, Singleton Birch were keen to replace it with a fuel-efficient and more productive drill rig. Although problematic in the last few years, they had found the F6 to be a reliable workhorse and Epiroc to be a trusted, long-term business partner, supplying and supporting them with surface drilling equipment, consumables, and aftermarket support, so were keen to purchase another Epiroc rig.
In addition to meeting demands for durability, cost efficiency, and sustainability, the company was keen to explore the latest features and benefits of a new drill rig. As part of the assessment process, the team from Singleton Birch visited a couple of quarries in Germany to see Epiroc’s FlexiROC and SmartROC drill rigs in action.
About to celebrate its 16th birthday, the ROC F6 has proved to be a steady and reliable workhorse
John Ross, assistant production manager at Singleton Birch, explained: ‘It was immediately apparent that we could achieve the significant increases in productivity and efficiency that we were looking for with the FlexiROC.
‘In fact, our initial assessment of using the new rig is that it has halved the time spent drilling and has significantly reduced our fuel consumption, thereby further contributing to our sustainability targets.’
Epiroc say the FlexiROC D50 offers the optimum combination of air flow and air pressure, which means high drilling economy and productivity. Built on a proven platform to ensure reliability and efficiency, and fitted with a standard feed, the FlexiROC excels at production drilling. The reliable Epiroc DTH hammer is matched with a powerful air compressor – providing a proven and effective team even in the toughest conditions.
As well as reducing running costs, Singleton Birch’s commitment to reducing their environmental footprint meant that fuel consumption of the new rig was a key factor. Inside the cab a lot of thought has been given to the layout of controls to provide an ergonomically designed and comfortable working environment for the operators.
Harry Georgiou, business line manager, explained: ‘The FlexiROC’s system is both intuitive and easy to learn, and presents live information to the operator. All four operators at the quarry have been impressed with the new rig and appreciate the increased productivity and ease of use.’
All four operators at the quarry have been impressed with the new rig, including the new 15in touch screen which has helped them to quickly and easily adjust drilling parameters
Summing up, John Ross said: ‘Our drillers have found the FlexiROC D50 to be easy to operate and really appreciate the comfortable cabin. Also, with the D50’s 25 bar compressor achieving a much higher percussion rate, we have seen a significant increase in productivity from the shotfiring team, combined with a reduction in fuel consumption.
‘We really appreciate the continuing support the Epiroc team are providing to ensure that we really get the most out of the new machine. The new FlexiROC drill rig is at the heart of our operations here, as it’s responsible for feeding the lime processing plant with over 1 million tonnes of material each year, so reliability and dependability are key.’
