MINING

Sandvik launches DS512i rock bolter

The latest bolter from Sandvik - the DS512i - is suitable for both mine and tunnelling applications

 The new DS512i rock bolter from Sandvik is suitable for both mining and tunnelling applications

The new DS512i rock bolter from Sandvik is suitable for both mining and tunnelling applications

Equipped with a completely new carrier, high-frequency rock drill, control system and ergonomic cabin, the DS512i offers high levels of safety and efficiency, providing peace of mind for all rock reinforcement operations.

The Sandvik DS512i is equipped with the new FOPS / ROPS cabin as standard, providing a safe, comfortable working environment for the operator. This reduces noise, vibration and dust levels and improves visibility while drilling and tramming. Furthermore, the spacious and ergonomic operating environment has an interactive graphic user interface enabling all bolting operations to be performed by a single operator in safety and comfort.

Intelligent control systems assist during drilling, grouting and bolt tightening, delivering high levels of automation. Machine efficiency is further maximized through easy to access service points from ground level, providing rapid maintenance and troubleshooting. The new DS512i comes ready for the AutoMine fleet and information management system and has multiple levels of automation, enabling the correct choice of rig for the specific application.

High levels of drilling performance are ensured, thanks to the use of the Sandvik RD314 high-frequency rock drill and the drilling control system which optimizes drilling penetration rates. The one-bolt automation function of the DS512i provides improved drilling productivity and extends operating lifetime of the drilling tools.

Peace of mind delivered

The new Sandvik DS512i provides the ultimate peace of mind in rock support. With up to 55 per cent increased operator visibility and 35 per cent higher penetration rates for greater productivity, performance and safety are seamlessly combined. An upgraded bolting head comes with different bolt lengths providing an extensive bolt selection, while the eight-rock bolt carousel ensures that the DS512i is capable of installing different types of rock bolts ranging from 1.6m (5ft) to 6m (20ft) in length. An automatic resin shooting and cement mixing system further guarantees a high-quality rock reinforcement process.

Able to carry a 1,200kg cement silo, the DS512i delivers increased meshing as well as hole angle measurement and an advanced boom manipulator. Bolting head movement is further optimised with new assistive and automatic features.

Designed specifically for tunnelling and mining, the DS512i has been developed based on a modularised concept leading to high levels of parts commonality with the Sandvik DT922i, enabling lower levels of total cost of ownership. The bolter has been designed for the integration of subsequent actions involved in the drill and blast process.

Designed for mines and tunnels

As well as being the ideal bolter for tunnelling, the new DS512i comes complete with certain features that make it the perfect choice for mining bolting operations. It possesses several types of bolt length and varieties within the same machine and an automatic cement mixer in parallel with automatic resin injection. Ideal for small and large headings, it enables high bolting and meshing coverage, with efficient operations being ensured through sharing high commonality of parts with other members of the 400i carrier series.

Automation levels to suit

As well as its leading performance features, at the heart of the new DS512i are the high levels of automation. These have been developed to suit the specific needs of the customers and come in two packages: Silver and Gold.

The Silver package comprises of ‘one-bolt' automation (collaring, drilling, grouting, bolt handling, tensioning) and hole angle measurement. The boom is fully instrumented with indicators for hole angles, tilt and rotation, as well as an advanced boom manipulator, automatic cement mixing and basic remote monitoring, amongst other features.

The Gold package has full instrumentation and fan bolt locations to show one or more bolt fans to the specific mine or tunnel coordinates. iSURE comes as standard along with MWD, Total Station Navigation, Tele-Remote bolting, ‘planned versus actual' bolting (which can be transferred to the control system) and full remote monitoring.

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