Credibility...EZ needs to release a PR with some news such as this, showing they are at least on top of the game of small-vein mining. Come on now, a double or triple boom Jumbo on a 1 meter wide vein?
This is what I would like to see from EZ as a sign they at least are keeping up with the appropriate technology. From: Mining News Digest
Atlas Copco launches new drill rig for narrow-vein mining
Major drillingequipment manufacturer, Atlas Copco has launched a new narrow profiledrill rig aimed specifically at narrow vein underground mining.
Posted:Wednesday,29 Sep 2010
OREBRO, SWEDEN -
A new face drilling rig for narrow tunnels and mines has beenintroduced by Swedish headquartered drilling equipment manufacturerAtlas Copco. Based on its well-proven predecessor, the Boomer 104, thenew Boomer T1 D is said to offer an impressive array of technical andenvironmental improvements.
In the world of underground mining where narrow tunnels and driftshave limited space, a small and flexible face drilling rig can be worthits weight in gold. Since the 90's, this role has been filled by AtlasCopco's Boomer 104. Now the company has launched its successor - theBoomer T1 D.
The new machine retains the features andcapabilities of the well-liked Boomer 104, but now introduces anextensive range of improvements and upgrades, all aimed at improvingproductivity, safety and operator comfort.
The range of newimprovements and options include a more powerful and cleaner Tier 3engine for higher tramming speed and environmental benefits. The boomsuspension system reduces stress on the machine, thereby increasingservice life and improving operator comfort when driving. A moreergonomic and comfortable cabin with better visibility is part of theoptional extras, and the serviceability has been improved with moreaccessible service points.
An important improvement was madeon the carrier frame. The new frame is stronger, has a lower centre ofgravity and has an oversized articulation to cope with demandingoperating conditions.
The first Boomer T1 D was tested at theLovisa lead/zinc mine in Sweden where it achieved top results comparedto the mine's previous Boomer 104. Operators of the machine praised theimproved ergonomics and drilling performance during the trial.
- We know our customers liked the Boomer 104 for its flexibility andsmall size, but we think people will fall in love when they see theBoomer T1 D, says Peter Bray, Product Manager Face Drilling EquipmentAtlas Copco.
Meetingthe challenges of modern narrow-vein mining: The newly launched BoomerT1 D face drilling rig from Atlas Copco is claimed to incorporate animpressive range of technical and environmental improvements.