Welsh quarry takes delivery of Epiroc drill rig

A new FlexiROC D55 rig from 8798 Epiroc has been delivered to Criggion quarry in Wales.

The quarry is operated by 8023 EPC-UK, which specialises in the manufacture, storage and distribution of commercial explosives, and drilling and blasting services. The company says the purchase of the new rig continues its investment in its drilling capabilities. The FlexiROC is one of seven new Epiroc rigs that form part of a scheduled renewal of EPC’s fleet during 2019.

The D55 has high-performance capabilities in both quarry and mine environments and EPC says it matches its high standards for innovation and safety, whilst also delivering in terms of economy and productivity.

The rig will be used to drill 4–5in diameter holes and is capable of drilling to depths of up to 40m, as well as having free air delivery of 729 cubic feet per minute (345 litres/s) at 30-bar pressure. The D55 is designed to deliver a 20% faster penetration rate than a 25-bar drill rig, and therefore provide greater fuel efficiency and more cost-effective results. The compact machines is designed to be easily transportable.

EPC-UK says the FlexiROC D55 is a rig that has been part of its fleet for some time and has proved itself as an important part of its efficient and productive drilling operation.

"We are specialists within the drilling and blasting sector and to consistently achieve our exacting standards, we only invest in the most suitable, efficient equipment. Epiroc provide this for us with their drill rig product range," said Ben Coppock, EPC-UK national operations manager.