EXPLORATION
virtually universal RCS (Rig Control System) found on many types of Atlas Copco units. Tis control format, which offers many ‘autonomous’ features, makes it easier to make fully automatic systems. Facilities include auto drilling and auto levelling to facilitate accurate drill positioning. Te Pit Viper 270 series has a choice of towers for single- or multi-pass drilling in the diameter range 6¾- 10⅝in (171-270mm). More recent models have operator cabins with refinements such as more ergonomic design of layout and controls, air conditioners and radio. Although the older, former
Drillmaster range do not have RCS they are still very popular in some quarters. For example, the DML is a multi-pass drillrig with a hole diameter range of 5⅞-10⅝in (149-270mm), and a maximum hole depth of 62.5m (207ft). All rigs equipped with high- pressure compressors can switch between rotary and DTH/DHD operation for variable rock conditions. Another takeover was the
development of Caterpillar’s range of rotary rigs after taking over Bucyrus International between 1997 and 2011. Caterpillar offers six models of high- capacity blasthole rigs covering hole
diameters of 6-17.5in (152-445m). Single pass maximum hold depth range from 12.8 to 21.3m (42-70ft), with multipass capabilities up to 85.3m (220ft) hole depth. Te latest Cat model is the mid- range MD6420B, which offers the new Cat 345 undercarriage with greased and lubricate track, and a choice of three powertrains and three mast lengths (10, 13 and 16m) for multipass depths to 74.4m (244ft). Tis ‘autonomous ready’ rig has optional Terrain for Drilling within the Caterpillar MineStar software control suite. Tis includes GPS positioning and automatic production monitoring and reporting to integrate with mine management systems, communications networks and overall safety systems. P&H is now an operating
subsidiary of the Joy Global mining equipment group. Te Joy Global P&H range of rotary blasthole drills is comprised of three main models on crawler carriers covering hole diameters from 7⅞ to 17½in (200- 444mm). All three have a single pass hole depth of 19.8m (65ft) whilst the largest has a slightly larger mast available for a 21.3-m (70-ft) hole depth. l
A collection of three Atlas Copco Pit Viper 351 rigs at Kumba Iron Ore’s Sishen Mine in South Africa drill some of the hardest iron ore possible. Kumba Iron Ore is majority owned by Anglo American.
Photo: Maurice Jones
I
ncreasing recognition of the importance
of safety and operator comfort in loss control and efficiency has led to many refinements in new and revised designs of rotary drilling rig. Such refinements include better access with ready fixed ladder availability, automatic fire extinguishers as options, better visibility from cabs, and a more ergonomically designed interior.
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