Epiroc Launches Automatic Bit Changer for SmartROC D65 and D60

en.Wedoany.com Reported - Epiroc has released the Automatic Bit Changer (ABC) system for SmartROC D65 and D60 surface drill rigs. The system is suitable for SmartROC D65 and D60 rigs equipped with the COP M6 down-the-hole hammer, enabling bit changes with a single push of a button from inside the cab, or remotely from the control room via the Common Automation Panel, without personnel coming into direct contact with the drill string.

The new system incorporates bit removal, selection and installation into an automated sequence. For rigs using the COP M6 down-the-hole hammer, a single bit can weigh up to 28 kg, and the system is equipped with a dedicated bit loading platform to reduce manual handling. Depending on bit size, the Automatic Bit Changer can pre-load up to 5 bits; with 203 mm bits, it can hold 4.

In remote operation mode, operators can select, add or remove bits via the Epiroc Common Automation Panel and complete bit changes directly, without the need for on-site technician assistance. This configuration enables the SmartROC D65 and D60 to further reduce the frequency of personnel entering the drill rig's working area during remote drilling operations.

Epiroc had previously applied automatic bit changing technology on its large Pit Viper drill rigs, and is now extending this capability to the large down-the-hole SmartROC D65 and D60 rigs. The company states that the automatic bit changing sequence can reduce drill rig downtime caused by manual bit changes, while maintaining a work rate close to that of manual bit changing.

The ABC is currently available as an optional configuration for the SmartROC D65 and D60, compatible with the COP M6 down-the-hole hammer. The SmartROC series is primarily used in surface mining, quarries and large-scale earthworks drilling operations, and this newly added configuration is part of Epiroc's continued expansion of automation features for surface drill rigs.