Developed through extensive research and collaboration with its customers, Komatsu's new small-class ZJ21 jumbo drill and ZB21 bolter utilise a common platform that allows operators to convert their machine from a jumbo to a bolter, or vice versa. The platform offers 100 per cent design commonality between bolter and jumbo from the rear skirt to the outer boom structure, making for a seamless conversion.

The versatility provided by the common platform was created to help mining operations realise advantages in job site efficiency and — with the common parts, service and maintenance — help reduce costs. In addition, operator controls are universal between the jumbo and the bolter, to benefit mining organisations from a user training and adoption perspective.

The ZJ21 jumbo drill is designed to provide excellent coverage in a small jumbo platform, delivering up to 66sqm of face coverage. The unique boom design promotes zero contact with the operator's enclosure or the carrier or levelling jacks when drilling anywhere on the face.

The ZB21 bolter enables operators to bolt in any direction and is capable of handling up to an 8ft bolting head. Operators can perform 100 per cent of the bolting cycle from inside the enclosure using the integrated screen handler and innovative chemical injection system, helping mining operations drive toward zero harm.

"Our new drilling and bolting platform was specifically designed to meet the tough challenges faced by our customers in underground hard rock," said Doug Eamer, director of Underground Drilling at Komatsu. "The ZJ21 and ZB21 are only the first two of a planned 14 new models, so you can look forward to seeing more from us soon."

The diesel version of both the ZJ21 jumbo and the ZB21 bolter are available to order now, with a battery option scheduled to roll out next year.