"We are very excited to show this super-efficient rig at MINExpo. I'm convinced that the new generation SmartROC CL will be a great addition to mining and quarrying companies all over the globe", says Mattias Hjerpe, Global Product Manager, Epiroc Surface division.
The COPROD technique being used on the updated SmartROC CL combines the high penetration rates normally only achieved in tophammer drilling together with the superior hole quality that comes with Down-The-Hole (DTH) drilling.
The new generation SmartROC CL comes with the new heavy-duty COP QM50CR – next generation 50 kW rock drill specially designed for the COPROD drilling system. Improvements over its predecessor make COP QM50CR more reliable and durable, significantly reducing the total cost of ownership (TCO).
"The higher efficiency of the COP QM50CR itself, together with the upgraded rig control system, also makes a significant contribution to overall energy efficiency. In fact, the new generation SmartROC CL also burns 45% less fuel compared to traditional DTH drilling which makes it a more sustainable alternative," says Hjerpe.
The new generation SmartROC CL can drill holes up to 216 mm in diameter. To further assist when drilling larger holes, the upgraded COPROD 140 drill string reduces pressure loss, which leads to higher penetration and lower fuel consumption.
The improved Rig Control System (RCS) on the SmartROC CL features an intuitive touchscreen display that gives the operator all the necessary information and assistance during troubleshooting, keeping downtime to a minimum.
"The control system fitted to this rig is now the same across all our SmartROC rigs. This means that current operators will feel right at home in a new SmartROC CL," says Hjerpe.
