With protected hydraulics, sensors and cables, the new Boomer M20 is designed and built to minimise unplanned stops and maximise uptime and performance in highly demanding operations.
A challenging part of underground work is the everyday wear and tear on hydraulic hoses. Falling rocks and debris and the continuous wear against tunnel floor and walls means constant hose repairs. The Boomer M20's heavy-duty, hose-less boom design minimises unplanned stops for hose repairs, keeps the rig up and running even in the toughest conditions.
"The Boomer M20 has been developed in close collaboration with key customers and is the result of extensive research and real-world testing. This is the perfect choice for mining houses and contractors that wants to out-drill the competition through innovation,", said Niklas Berggren, global product manager face drilling equipment at Epiroc.
Automated features
High precision and performance are ensured thanks to onboard automation features, teleremote capabilities and digital drill plans which give higher reliability and quality of the full drill cycle. By utilising high-performance development, the M20's operator can adjust and download drill plans directly at the face eliminating the need for adjustments on the surface.
"With digital drill plan handling, drill rounds will be longer, more precise and give far less overbreak. We have seen total cost savings of up to 25 per cent and up to 40 per cent productivity increase," Berggren said.
Safer work environment
The Boomer M20 is designed with safety in mind, thanks to several features the rig secures a safe working environment for operators. "Safety has been with us since day one. It's our top priority and we have made great efforts in improving safety for operators with this rig," said Berggren.
Through teleremote capabilities, operators can drill from a safe distance away from hazardous areas at the tunnel face and keep production going also over shift changes.
Thanks to the multi-functional joysticks operators can keep their eyes on the task at all times. The unique cabin is designed to give optimum visibility and thanks to noise and vibration dampening materials, the noise level is kept as low as just 65 decibels. The safe bolting platforms is another great advantage that avoids any operation under an unsupported rock.
Battery driveline option
Epiroc continues to work towards electrification in underground mining and the new Boomer M20 comes with a battery-electric driveline option. A battery-powered Boomer M20 brings additional savings on health, maintenance, ventilation and cooling.
"With the on-board charger, the operator does not need to plan for charging, as it automatically takes place while connected to the grid for drilling. Thanks to the high capacity battery, Boomer M20 has a fantastic driving range, and there is nothing to disturb the drift cycle," Berggren explained.
"We are in this for the thrill of solving the real problem. For the adventure and energy found in new perspectives. The Boomer M20 is another great example of how we make a difference through innovation," added Epiroc's president and CEO, Helena Hedblom.
Got a story? Email: duncan.moore@aspermontmedia.com
