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The face of innovation

POWER AND
PERFORMANCE
The Rocket Boomer M2 C

The Rocket Boomer M2 C drills faster, moves faster and can be serviced faster. Ideal for
drifts up to 45 m2, this impressive new drill rig gives you power and performance like
never before.

Higher availability
A high-speed network system enables fast, active and accurate control of the drilling
process. The electronics are highly tolerant to disruption and cope extremely well with
harsh environmental conditions. Our interactive diagnostic system gives easier detection
and cor rection of malfunctions.

If you want more information,

please contact your local
Atlas Copco representative or
Atlas Copco Rock Drills AB,
SE-701 91 rebro, Sweden.
Fax: +46 19 670 7393.
www.atlascopco.com

Higher efficiency
Ergonomically designed operators panel with full colour display contains all information needed for direct operator-machine communication. PC card with preferred
drilling settings and logging enables the operator to work faster.
Interested? Visit our web site: www.facedrilling.com

Rocket Boomer M2 C.indd 1

2004-03-19, 15:33:10

LILJEDAL COMMUNICATION

Higher drilling output

The M2 C features the powerful COP 1838 rock drill, which incorporates the latest technology in an intelligent control system. The system feels the rock and adjusts impact
and feed to the actual rock conditions for maximum penetration and drill steel life.

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Page 1

Contents
Foreword
2 Foreword by Veikko Suvanto, product line
manager for face drilling, mechanized bolting
and production drilling at Atlas Copco Rock
Drills AB.

Talking Technically
3
6
11
15
17
19
22
26
28

Automation for Quality Drilling

Blasting Technology
Selecting Rocktools for Tunnelling
Getting Into Perfect Shape
Getting the Drift with Magnum SR
Economic Case for Bit Grinding
Rock Drilling With Diarot
Iredes Initiative
Rocket Boomers Install Rock Reinforcement

Case Studies
31 Spain: Vielha, Pyrenees with Rocket Boomer
WL3 C and L2 C rigs and Swellex Mn 12
rockbolts.
35 Switzerland: Mitholz, Ltschberg with Swellex
and drillrigs with advanced boom control (ABC).
39 Sweden: Trollhattan, Gothenburg with XL3 C
rig drilling accurate holes for grouting.
43 Norway: Spitsbergen, breaking records with
Rocket Boomer L2 C in Arctic conditions.
46 Finland: Viikinmki wastewater, using XL3 C
rig with COP 1838HF rockdrills and Diarot
analysis.
49 Norway: Tyin hydro, Atlas Copco rigs using
Secoroc rock tools, and Robbins raise borer
with RCS.
53 Sweden: Zinkgruvan mine, where mechanized
bolting has increased capacity with better safety.
55 Germany, Norway, US: improving limestone
production efficiency with job-matched
hydraulic rigs.

60 Norway: Skatestraum, fjord crossing using

three-boom WL3 C drillrig with ABC Total.
63 Portugal: Venda Nova hydro using Rocket
Boomer L2 Cs, Swellex, and Robbins raise borer.
67 Czech Republic: Mrazovka, Prague with L2 C
two-boom rigs installing Boodex.
71 Japan: Agatsuma, ABC Total produces less
overbreak when tested against ABC Regular.
74 China: MTRC and West Rail, Hong Kong with
computerized L2 C and WL3 C drillrigs.
77 Austria: Removing bottlenecks in the highway
system using Rocket Boomers L3 C and L2 C.
82 Finland: Kemi Mine, where RCS drillrigs are
helping optimize the production process.
85 Sweden: Sodra Lanken, Stockholms southern
link road where MWD was used effectively.

Product Specifications
88
i-iv
101
103
112
113
115
116
118
131
136
139
140
141
142
145
146
151

Rocket Boomer Drilling Rigs

COP 3038 Rock Drill
Hydraulic Rock Drills
Drillrig Options
Hydraulic Booms
Hydraulic Drill Support
Rod Adding System
Hydraulic Feeds
Secoroc Rock Tools
Grinding Machines
Boltec Mechanized Bolting Rigs
Swellex Manganese Line
MAI Self Drilling Anchors
Grouting Equipment
Wagner Scooptrams and Minetrucks
Pusherlegs and Stopers
Air Line Accessories
Aftermarket Products

Front cover: Atlas Copco Rocket Boomer XL3 C at work in

Trollhattan railway tunnel, Sweden.
This edition published 2004. Atlas Copco reserves the right to
alter its product specifications at any time. For latest updates
contact your local Sales Office or refer to www.boomer-rig.com

Produced by Reference Editions Ltd for Atlas Copco Rock Drills AB, SE-701 91 Orebro, Sweden, tel +46 19 670-7000,
fax -7393. Publisher Ulf Linder ulf.linder@atlascopco.com Editor Mike Smith mike@reference-editions.com
Picture Editor Jan Hallgren jan.hallgren@atlascopco.com Contributors Ake Ekloef, Alf Stenqvist, Anders Arvidsson,
Gunnar Nord, Hans Fernberg, Jorgen Appelgren, Lennart Soderstrom, Mark Bernthaler, Mohinder Singh, Olle Karlsson,
Rolf Andersson, Rolf Elsrud, Stig Olofsson, Turgay Ozan, all name.surname@atlascopco.com and Thierry Borca
research@tunnelbuilder.com
Designed and typeset by Dorchester Typesetting Group Ltd.
Printed by Stephens & George, Dowlais, Merthyr Tydfil
CF48 3TD, UK.

FACE DRILLING

Copies of all reference editions are available for multi-channel

delivery from the Editions section at www.reference-editions.com
Reproduction of individual articles only by agreement with the
publisher.

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Page 2

Foreword
Development With the User in Mind

dison believed in hard work, sometimes working twenty hours a day. He was quoted as saying Genius is one percent
inspiration and 99 percent perspiration!.
Hard work, systematic planning and strict discipline are also the main ingredients in the successful face drilling case
studies you can read about in this reference edition. Another common denominator, in all cases, has been high performance
equipment, and the participation of Atlas Copco.
There is always a better way of doing things, and Atlas Copco has a long history of continuously striving to arrive at more
efficient solutions. Involvement of customers, and listening to their needs, is one important part of our design process. High
performance is also important, and, in achieving this, the focus has been on simplicity in operation and maintenance.
The users needs are basically for reliable, high-capacity equipment, and economic drilling to contribute to the lowest cost
per tonne. The new generation of Atlas Copco equipment offers modular design with a computer-based drilling system, and
user-friendly communications with interactive diagnostics for easier trouble shooting and fault-diagnosis.
Technological development in equipment and supporting systems encourages all of us to move in this new direction. The
key driving forces are that both parties are focusing on their core competencies, and that the supplier can take a greater
responsibility for long term equipment performance. Customers know how to drive tunnels efficiently, and get ore out of the
ground safely and economically. This is why we have close interaction with our customers in our commitment to continuously
improve the quality and cost-effectiveness of our products and service.
Even though a new generation of drill rigs is ready to meet the current market demands, such as full automation and
extended software options, development work must go on. We are fully committed to our customers business, and are always
looking for ways to increase their productivity. If you want more information about the use of our products, you are more
than welcome to contact Atlas Copco.

Veikko Suvanto
Product Line Manager,
Underground Drilling Equipment,
Atlas Copco Rock Drills AB
veikko.suvanto@atlascopco.com

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TALKING TECHNICALLY

Automation for Quality Drilling

Technology Platform
for Drillrigs
The current series of Atlas Copco
Rocket Boomer drillrigs is based
on the latest, well proven
computer and information technology. These drillrigs are of
modularized design in both
hardware and software, so their
functionality is upgradeable step
by step. Options such as ABC
Regular, ABC Total, drillplan
generator, and communication
products are available to facilitate quality drilling.
Atlas Copco has applied the
same new automation technology for other drilling equipment
such as Simba production drillrigs, Boltec rockbolting rigs, and
ROC surface crawler rigs. For the
customer, this means commonality of components and training,
leading to a better understanding
of both the capability and the
maintenance of Atlas Copco
products. For the company, it
allows continuous product development, which can be applied
right across the range.

ABC Basic
Lowest level of
automation
manual positioning
angle indication of
feed
hole length indication
basic logging

ABC Regular
Medium level of
automation
computer guided
positioning
feedback on
operators display
navigation to tunnel
laser
logging of drilling on
PC card

Introduction
Atlas Copco has introduced a number
of new drillrigs for underground
excavation, using a common technology platform. This approach allows
development of new functionalities for
the drillrigs, by working in close
relationship with skilled tunnelling
contractors.
The current generation of drillrigs
is designed for high productivity,
quality drilling, and a comfortable
working environment for the operator.
Hole drilling constitutes an eversmaller share of the direct cost and
time of tunnelling, but has a major
impact on the other production
processes, because it affects fragmentation, overbreak, underbreak, support
and mucking.
Although great attention is paid to
penetration rate, and wear of drill steel
and bits, Atlas Copco is also interested
FACE DRILLING

ABC Total
High level of
automation
automatic, semiautomatic or manual
round drilling
hole to hole move
stragegy
boom collision control
hole sequence
programming

in what drilling can do to improve

rock excavation overall. The inputs to
this ongoing process come from
customers, and from research projects
where new technology is applied to
drilling operations.

Rig Control System

The automation platform for Atlas
Copco drilling and bolting equipment is
the Rig Control System (RCS), which
is based on standard PC-computer
3

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TALKING TECHNICALLY

External computer

WWW

Mine office computer

Local data network

Worksite's local proxy

server

At the worksite: Computerized rigs

with RCS system and the RRA option

External computer

Mine office computer

Rig Remote Access affords supervision or control of a drillrig.

technology. The new generation of

RCS rigs has taken a quantum leap
forward with respect to logging capabilities, serviceability and drilling
accuracy. CAN-bus technology provides
the backbone of the new rig control
system, RCS. This system is flexible
and easily expandable, allowing new
units to be added anywhere along the
data bus, without adding another cable.
The electronic modules are all
developed solely for the rigs, and are
ruggedized and protected from external magnetic and electric influences.
For face drilling rigs, the flexibility
of the system is highly utilized, and
can be adapted and configured for all
different types of products. Customers
can start at a low level of automation
and, as their requirements change, can
upgrade. New functionality can be
added, without major rebuilding of the
rigs.

Flexible Computerization
Included in all Rocket Boomer RCS
systems is a standard level of automation. It consists of computer controlled
boom and feed movement allowing
accurate proportional movement from
the same set of joysticks on the panel,
or, if there is more than one panel, then
control of any boom from any panel.
The unique RCS system also includes precise control and supervision
of the drilling process for high productivity and longer life of drill steel and
bits, using RPCF and anti-jamming functions for straight holes, while virtually
eliminating stuck steel, and active
supervision and diagnostic functions.
4

As an option, the rigs can be

equipped with Advanced Boom Control
(ABC). There are three levels of ABC,
namely Basic, Regular and Total.
ABC Basic has the lowest level of
automation, providing an operatorcontrolled, computer-supported drill
feed guidance tool for precise drill
hole alignment. It includes: graphical
operator-machine interface; all rig
functionality electronically controlled
from a single operator panel; system
monitoring and fault diagnostics; automatic code loading procedure; angle
indication of feed position; hole
length indication; basic logging;
manual drill unit positioning; manual
rod handling functions; and basic drill
functions, including RPCF and anti
jamming.
ABC Regular provides a medium
level of automation, assisting the operator to accurately position, align and
drill holes to the required depth, and to
gather drilling data for office analysis.
For a Rocket Boomer drillrig, ABC
Regular includes the ABC basic functionality, plus: computer guided positioning of booms and feed according
to pre-designed drill plan; boom position feedback on operators display;
navigation to tunnel laser; logging of
drilled hole on PC-card which can
be analyzed in the office, using the
Tunnel Manager Lite software (see
p.5).
ABC Total enables a complete
round to be drilled automatically, converting the operators role to that of
supervising the drillrig. For face
drilling applications, the number of
operators can be reduced from three to

one for a large three-boom configuration. ABC Total for a Rocket Boomer
drillrig includes the ABC Regular
functionality plus: automatic round
drilling from pre-selected drill plan;
semi-automatic, with one hole automatic including positioning to the next
hole; automatic drilling, with manual
positioning, automatic collaring and
drilling; electronic parallel holding;
hole to hole move strategy; boom
collision control; hole sequence programming; and computer guided positioning of booms and feed, according
to a pre-selected bolt plan.

Common Automation
All Rocket Boomer drillrigs can be
equipped with a series of automation
options, which include Measure
While Drilling (MWD), Mine Map
Navigation (MMN), Drill Plan
Generator (DPG), and Drill Rig
Remote Access (RRA).
MWD logs several drill parameters
during probe hole drilling, and data
can be used for prediction of geological and geomechanical variations
ahead of the tunnel face, allowing
appropriate measures to be taken
before reaching what might be difficult and dangerous formations. A standard Rocket Boomer equipped with
RCS can be upgraded for MWD application, and will collect data from all
manner of probe holes, pregrout holes,
and even normal blastholes. Eight
drilling parameters are recorded at predetermined intervals that can be set as
low as 2 cm. One, or all, of the booms
on the rig can be equipped, with the
data being recorded on a PC card,
which can be immediately transferred
to the office for plotting and evaluation.
MMN eliminates navigation errors,
and places the drillrig at the correct
location in the tunnel. Reference
points and tunnel alignment are presented on the operators display.
DPG is an option to ABC Regular
that generates a drill plan at the tunnel
face to counter any roof or floor drill
plan area misalignment. The drill plan
will always be correctly adapted to the
actual face.
The RRA option integrates the
drillrig to the customers site computer
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TALKING TECHNICALLY

network. This enables functionality

such as work order handling, log data
transfer, and remote troubleshooting.
Using RRA, drill plans can be
uploaded to the drillrig, or log files
downloaded to the controllers PC, via
a modem, mobile phone or LAN
connection. Drillrig status can be
observed on-line using a standard web
browser on a remote PC.

Tunnel Manager Lite

Tunnel Manager Lite (TML) is a
Windows-based support software for
the drilling operation in mining and
tunnelling projects that runs on a regular office PC. It is primarily used for
the creation, organization and administration of drilling and tunnel data for
Rocket Boomer rigs equipped with the
optional ABC (Advanced Boom
Control) Regular, ABC Total, MWD
(Measure While Drilling), or Boltview
functions.
Different sets of data related to a
specific project are stored in a hierarchical structure with easily identifiable
headings. This allows easy and quick
retrieval of data.
Well-designed, easy-to-use functions create relevant information, such
as tunnel profiles, drill patterns, and
alignment. Data is easy to create
and transfer between the office PC and
drillrig.
Before starting a tunnel, a set of
drawings and standard information on
the project is produced. The planning
department uses TML and converts
this information to detailed construction plans, such as drill patterns, alignment tables, and charts defining the
position and alignment of the laser
beam. These are transferred to the
drillrig on a PC card, on which the
data collected during drilling can be
recorded for office analysis using
TML, which can then generate hard
copy reports.
On-screen, TML works with two
windows: a left window showing
structured project information; and a
right window showing information
about tunnel line, profile, and drill
patterns, laser line, and log reports.
Data for different work sites are stored
in a hierarchical tree structure.
FACE DRILLING

IREDES
In order to facilitate use of different
equipment from different producers in
the same organization, Atlas Copco,
together with other major machine
manufacturers, mining and construction companies and third party
suppliers, is currently establishing a
standard for data exchange between
rock excavation equipment and users
computer systems. This International
Rock Excavation Equipment Data
Exchange Standard, or IREDES, is the
common language in data exchange
for mining and tunnelling, and is
described elsewhere in this edition.
Atlas Copco drillrigs will be adapted
to IREDES.

Learning Curve
More than 90% of Rocket Boomer
RCS drillrigs are now manufactured
with the ABC Regular/Total options.
For operators, the learning curve is
short, and both beginners and experienced drillers are capable of production drilling after a couple of days
of training. To use new technology
like ABC Regular requires training in
new areas, such as navigation, and
understanding of the tunnel design
drawings.

Drilling Economy
The new generation of computerized
drillrigs offers a very precise adaptation of the drilling parameters to
actual rock conditions, resulting in
better drilling economy.
Once properly set up for the actual
rock conditions, the feed force can
only be increased within set limits,
and correct adjustment to the rock
conditions ensures precise collaring,
straight holes without deviation, and
extended lifetime of drill steel components. The drillers experience counts,
but RCS assists him to do a good job.
Modern tunnels are associated with
very precise requirements, because
they are usually concrete lined or supported with steel arches. To ensure
efficient use of time and materials,
overbreak and underbreak have to
be minimized by precise drilling and

ON THE PANEL
These functions are displayed on
the operators control panel:
1. Displays rotation, percussion, feed and dampening pressures.
2. ABC Basic manual
positioning and the display
in the operators cabin
shows feed direction.
3. ABC Regular, also
manual positioning. The
display shows drill pattern,
including collaring point,
hole direction and depth.
Logging via PC card of hole number,
type and drill time.
4. ABC Total (Automatic)
fully-automatic drilling of
the pre-selected drill plan
with sequences.
5. ABC Total (Semiautomatic) automatic drilling of individual holes in
the pre-selected drill plan
with sequences.
6. ABC Total (Automatic
drilling) manual positioning of the feed and automatic
drilling of individual holes.
Buttons on the operators control panel.

blasting. A well-designed drill plan

adapted to the actual rock conditions,
correct drillrig navigation, accurate
drilling, precise explosives loading,
and correctly timed blasting all ensure
a good profile. The Rocket Boomer
with ABC Regular or Total assists the
contractor to fulfil these requirements,
and control the profile.
Since introducing the Rocket Boomer
L2 C in 1998, Atlas Copco has
released more than 10 different configurations of face drilling equipment,
including a diesel hydraulic powered
rig. The modular concept of mechanical, hydraulic, electronic, and software
components introduced with the new
generation rigs has made this possible.
Atlas Copco strategy with RCS is
to develop a complete programme of
electronically controlled drillrig products for the mining and construction
businesses, and to introduce automation options for all product lines.

by Rolf Elsrud
5

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Blasting Technology
Improving the
Quality of
Excavation
There are two reasons to go
underground and excavate: to
use the excavated space for storage or transport; or to make use
of the excavated material. In both
cases, tunnelling forms an important part of the entire operation.
In underground construction, it is
necessary to gain access to the
construction site by tunnelling,
but the tunnel can also have
its own purpose as a conduit
for road, railway, sewerage and
utilities.
On mines, drifts are used
as adits, and for preparatory
work, as well as for internal
communication.
Tunnels can be driven horizontally, or close to horizontal, but
can also be inclined shaft raises,
ranging from vertically upwards
to vertically downwards.
Construction of rock chambers
involves tunnelling, as do mining
operations. Correct matching of
modern drilling equipment with
the latest explosives technology
will yield a higher quality excavation accompanied by lower
overall costs.

Recent Development
Drilling techniques have, in the last 25
years, developed from pneumatic to
electro-hydraulic, and drilling jumbos
now have a very high capacity. The
focus of this development has not just
been on speed, but also on the quality
of drilling. Quality includes the basic
parameters, such as location, straightness, and length of holes, together
with control and balancing of the
drilling parameters, such as percussion
pressure, applied torque and feed
force, to reduce and practically eliminate jamming and loosening of the
drill string components. CAN-bus
computer technology has entered into
the drilling operation, to control and
monitor all activities performed by the
6

L
Look-out (L)

The look-out should only be sufficient to allow space for the drillrig to drill the next round.

modern drillrig, and improve the

quality of drilling.
The charging of the blast holes can
be carried out quickly, either manually
with plastic pipe charges, or with
mechanical charging equipment for
bulk explosives. In the latter case, the
amount of explosives needed per
metre of blasthole can easily be
adjusted. The development of explosives has moved in the direction of
safer products, with improved fumes
characteristics. Modern emulsion explosives are oxygen-balanced, generating
a minimum of noxious fumes, and far
less smoke.
Initiating systems like NONEL
have shortened the charging time, and
added further safety to the blasting
operation due to their non-susceptibility
to electrical hazards. Electronic detonators, giving no spread in the
detonating intervals, are also available. These are sparsely used, due to
their relatively high price, but are
economic in situations where a smooth
contour is essential, with only little
over- and under-break.
Modern equipment has shortened the
drilling time, the NONEL system has
made connecting of the detonators safer
and faster, and emulsion explosives have
shortened the ventilation re-entry time.
All of the above contribute to a
faster work cycle for drilling, charging,

blasting, ventilation, scaling, support

work, grouting, loading and transport,
and setting out for the next blast.
Nowadays the face does not have to be
marked up, as the drillplan is stored in
the drillrig computers.
Langefors,
in
The
Modern
Technique of Rock Blasting, says
about drilling precision: The scattering of the drill holes as a quantitative
factor is often disregarded. It is included quite indefinitely in the technical
margin, together with the rock factor.
In discussing blasting as a whole, it
would be a great advantage if attention
could be paid to the drilling precision
in calculating the charges, and in constructing the drilling pattern; for the
blasting of the cut it is essential. With
computers, this is now possible, and it
is likely that it will come about within a
few years.

Free Face
The main difference between tunnel
blasting and bench blasting is that
tunnel blasting is done towards one
free surface, while bench blasting
is done towards two or more free
surfaces. The rock is thus more constrained in the case of tunnelling, and a
second free face has to be created
towards which the rock can break and
be thrown away from the surface.
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This free face is produced by a

cut in the tunnel face, which can be a
parallel hole cut, a V-cut, or a fan-cut.
After the cut opening is made, the
stoping towards the cut will begin.
The stoping can be compared with
bench blasting, but it requires a higher
specific charge, due to higher drilling
deviation, the need for good fragmentation, and absence of hole inclination.
In addition, overcharging of a tunnel
blast does not have the same disastrous
effect as in an open air blast, where
high precision in calculation is a must.
In the case of Vee cuts and fan cuts,
the cut holes will occupy the major
part of the width of the tunnel.
The contour holes around the roof,
sidewall and floor, have to be angled
out of the contour (look-out), so that
the tunnel will retain its designed area.
The look-out should only be big
enough to allow space for the drilling
equipment for the coming round. As a
guide value, the look-out should not
exceed: 10 cm + 3 cm/m hole depth,
which keeps it to around 20 cm.
The consumption of explosives in
tunnel blasting is higher than in bench
blasting. The specific charge is 3 to 10
times higher than that for bench blasting, depending mainly on reasons
mentioned above, like large drilling
scatter, the confinement of the round,
heave of lower rock upwards to ensure
swell, and lack of cooperation
between adjacent blastholes in the
fragmentation work.
The consumption of explosives will
be greatest in the cut area of the blast.
A 1 m x 1 m area around the empty
hole(s) in a parallel cut will consume
approximately 7 kg/cu m, and the
Typical designs of large hole cuts.

a = 1.5 d
d
a = 1.5 d

FACE DRILLING

specific charge will decrease with the

distance from the cut, until it reaches a
minimum value of about 0.9 kg/cu m.

Large Hole Cut

The most commonly used cut in
tunnelling today is the parallel hole
cut, or large hole cut. All holes in the
large hole cut are drilled parallel to
each other, and the blasting is carried
out towards one or more empty large
drill holes, which act as an opening.
The parallel hole cut is a development of the burn cut, where all the
holes are parallel, and normally of the
same diameter. One hole in the middle
is given a heavy charge, and the four
holes around it are left uncharged. In
other cases, the middle hole is left
uncharged and the four holes are
charged.
However, burn cuts generally result
in a smaller advance than for large
hole cuts, so this method can be
disregarded.
The cut may be placed at any location on the tunnel face, but its location
influences the throw, the explosives
consumption, and the number of holes
needed in the round.
If the cut is placed close to a sidewall, there is a probability of better
exploitation of the drilling pattern,
with less holes in the round.
Furthermore, the cut may be placed
alternately on the right or left side, in
relatively undisturbed rock. To obtain
good forward movement, and centring
of the muckpile, the cut may be placed
approximately in the middle of the
cross section, and quite low down.
This position will give less throw, and

less explosives consumption, because

of more stoping downwards. A high
position of the cut gives an extended
and easily loaded muckpile, with
higher explosives consumption and
more drilling, due to upwards stoping.
The normal location of the cut is on
the first helper row above the floor.
The large hole cut comprises one or
more uncharged large diameter holes,
which are surrounded by small diameter blastholes with small burdens
to the large holes. The blastholes are
drilled in squares around the opening.
The number of squares in the cut is
limited by the fact that the burden in
the last square must not exceed the
burden of the stoping holes for a given
charge concentration in the hole.
The cut holes occupy an area of
approximately 2 sq m. Small tunnel
faces may need only cut holes and
contour holes.
When designing the cut, the following parameters are of importance for a
good result: diameter of the large hole;
burden; and charge concentration.
In addition, the drilling precision is
of the utmost importance, especially
for the blast holes closest to the large
holes. The slightest deviation can
cause the blast hole to meet the large
hole, or the burden to become excessively big. Too big a burden will only
cause breakage or plastic deformation
in the cut, resulting in lower advance.

Hole Diameter
One of the parameters for good
advance of the blasted round is the
diameter of the large empty hole. The
larger the diameter, the deeper the
round may be drilled, and a greater
advance can be expected.
One of the most common causes of
short advance is too small an empty
hole in relation to the hole depth.
An advance of approximately 90%
can be expected for a hole depth of
4 m, and one empty hole with 102 mm
diameter.
If several empty holes are used, a
fictitious diameter has to be calculated. The fictitious diameter of the
opening may be calculated in accordance with the formula D = d n,
where D = fictitious empty large hole
7

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TALKING TECHNICALLY

diameter; d = diameter of empty large

holes; n = number of holes.
In order to calculate the burden in
the first square, the diameter of the
large hole is used in the case of one
large hole, and the fictitious diameter
in the case of several large holes.
The distance between the blasthole
and the large empty hole should not be
greater than 1.5 times the diameter of
the larger hole for the opening to be
clean blasted. If the distance is longer,
there is merely breakage, and when
the distance is shorter, there is a great
risk that the blasthole and empty hole
will meet.
So the position of the blastholes in
the first square is expressed as: a =1.5d
Where a = CC distance between
the large hole and the blasthole, d =
diameter of the large hole.
In the case of several large holes,
the relation is expressed as: a =1.5D
Where a = CC distance between
the centre point of the large holes and
the blasthole, D = fictitious diameter.
The holes closest to the empty
holes must be charged carefully. Too
low a charge concentration in the hole
may not break the rock, while too high
a charge concentration may throw the
rock against the opposite wall of the
large hole with such high a velocity
that the broken rock will be recompacted there, and not blown out
through the large hole. Full advance is
then not obtained.

Tunnel Contour
The contour of the tunnel is divided
into floor holes, wall holes and roof
holes. The burden and spacing for the
floor holes are the same as for the stoping holes. However, the floor holes are
more heavily charged than the stoping
holes, to compensate for gravity and
for the weight of the rock masses from
the rest of the round, which lie over
them at the instant of detonation.
For the wall and roof holes, two
variants of contour blasting are used:
normal profile blasting; and smooth
blasting.
With normal profile blasting, no
particular consideration is given to the
appearance and condition of the blasted
contour. The same explosives as in the
8

11

5
20

20

20

20

20

20
20
19

20
19

20

19

19

11

19
16

16

15

15

19

19
16

15

16

14

14

19

19

13 >90

Cut

15

13

19

Wall holes *

19

19

22

18

18

20

12

>5

21

19

19

10

20

18

17

20
19

7
2

20

Stoping holes

18

21

10

20

12

Roof holes *

14

16
21

16

14
21

21

21

21

20
22

Floor holes *
Firing sequence of a typical hole pattern (*contour holes).

rest of the round are utilized, but with

a lesser charge concentration, and the
contour holes are widely spaced. The
contour of the tunnel becomes rough,
irregular and cracked.
The smooth blasting technique has
been developed to obtain a smoother
and stronger tunnel profile. Smooth
blasting, where the contour holes are
drilled close to each other and weaker
explosives are used, produces tunnels
with a regular profile, requiring substantially less reinforcement than if
normal profile blasting is used.

Firing Pattern
The firing pattern must be designed so
that each hole has free breakage. The
angle of breakage is smallest in the cut
area, where it is around 50 degrees. In
the stoping area, the firing pattern
should be designed so that the angle of
breakage does not fall below 90
degrees.
It is important in tunnel blasting to
have sufficient time delay between the
holes. In the cut area, the delay
between the holes must be long
enough to allow time for breakage,
and throw of rock through the narrow
empty hole, which takes place at a
velocity of 40 to 60 m/sec. A cut
drilled to 4 m depth would thus
require a delay time of 60 to 100
milliseconds to be clean blasted.
Normally, delay times of 75 to 100
milliseconds are used in the cut.

In the first two squares of the cut,

only one detonator of each delay
should be used. In the following two
squares, two detonators of each delay
may be used. In the stoping area, the
delay time must be long enough to
allow movement of the rock, to generate space for expansion of the adjacent
rock to be loosened, say, 100 to
500 milliseconds.
For the contour holes, the scatter in
delay between the holes should be as
small as possible, to obtain a good,
smooth blasting effect. Therefore, the
roof should be blasted with the same
interval number, normally the second
highest of the series, and here we can
benefit from electronic detonators, as
their scatter is practically nil. The
walls are also blasted with the same
period number, but with one delay
lower than that of the roof.
Detonators for tunnelling can be
electric or non-electric.
Electric detonators are manufactured as MS (millisecond) and HS
(half-second) delays, and non-electric
detonators as deci-second and halfsecond delays.

Vee and Fan Cuts

The most common cut with angled
holes is the Vee cut. A certain tunnel
width is required, in order to accommodate the drilling equipment.
Furthermore, the theoretical advance
per round increases with the width,
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TALKING TECHNICALLY

The principle of the fan cut is to

make a trench-like opening across the
tunnel face. Like the Vee cut, it
requires a certain width of tunnel to
accommodate the drilling equipment to
attain acceptable advance per round.
The constriction of the holes in a
fan cut is not large, making it easy to
blast. The drilling and charging of the
holes are similar to that of the cut
holes in the Vee cut.

Contour Blasting

Vee cut drilling layout.

and 45-50% of the tunnel width is

achievable. By applying a more
advanced arrangement of the blastholes, larger advances can be
achieved, but this requires a far better
accuracy in the location of the blastholes than normal.
The angle of the cut must not be too
acute, and should not be less than 60
degrees. More acute angles require
higher charge concentration in the holes.
The cut is normally a double Vee,
but in deeper rounds may be triple or
quadruple Vee. Each Vee in the cut
should be fired with the same interval
number using MS detonators, to
ensure coordination between the blastholes with regard to breakage. The
delay between different Vees should
be in the order of 50 milliseconds, to
allow time for displacement and
swelling.
Fan cut layout.

2 4 6
1 3 5
2 4 6

5
3
1

FACE DRILLING

Accurate blasting is a priority,

especially in those tunnels where the
overbreak has to be replaced with
expensive concrete.
Numerous blasting techniques have
been used to control overbreak. They
all have one objective in common: to
minimize the stress induced by the
blasting, and consequent fracturing of
the rock beyond the theoretical excavation line, by reduction and better
distribution of the explosives charges.
In tunnels, and road and railway
cuttings, it is of the utmost importance
that the rock around the profile is
sound, otherwise rockfall, rockslides
and excessive maintenance work will
result.
It is often claimed that good overbreak control cannot be expected in all
geological formations. That is true, but
carefully executed blasting will minimize overbreak, even in severe
geological conditions.
The first approach to control overbreak was by Line Drilling, which
simply involved a single row of
uncharged holes closely spaced along
the perimeter of the excavation, providing a weak plane to which the blast
could break. Line Drilling was modified over the years, and the holes were
charged with light charges and their
spacing increased.
When cushion, or smooth, blasting,
the contour holes were ignited after
the main blast, and when presplitting,
they were ignited before the rest of the
round.
In all four methods, the charge
calculations have to consider not only
the contour holes, but also the holes
closest to the contour line. These have
to be charged in such a way that they

do not create cracks beyond the

perimeter of the blast.

Smooth Blasting
Smooth blasting was developed and
refined in Sweden during the 1950s
and 60s. Smooth blasting holes are
fired together with the main round,
using later delays. Small diameter
light explosives, with low velocity of
detonation (VOD) and relatively low
gas content, were developed, such as
Gurit. This is a nitroglycerine based

Crack zone from conventional blasting.

explosive containing kieselguhr, first

used by Alfred Nobel to tame the
nitroglycerine.
The contour holes must be carefully
charged with joined-up charges, which
are locked in the hole by stemming.
To prevent the sand from running
Crack zone from smooth blasting.

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TALKING TECHNICALLY

down the hole, a paper plug can be

placed on top of the last cartridge.
The holes directly adjacent to the
contour holes must also be lightly
charged, to avoid spoiling the contour.
The quality of the remaining rock
depends to a large extent on the relation
between the spacing of the holes (S) and
the burden (B). For a good result, the
ratio S/B should be around 0.8, making
the burden greater than the spacing.
The increased demand for stable
rock surfaces in permanent underground
chambers has resulted in smooth blasting being prescribed as the standard
method for controlled contour blasting.
Also, less fissures in the remaining rock
means less rock reinforcement.
Because the stoping holes in a
tunnel blast are closely spaced and
constricted, the crack formation from
these holes may extend beyond the
final contour if they are overcharged.
SVEDEFO has worked out an
empirical formula to predict the vibration velocity which can be expected
from different linear charge densities
at different distances. Well-balanced
charges in the holes next to the contour
holes are a must for the best result.
The table below gives the recommended charge and drilling patterns
for different diameters of contour
holes (upgraded recommendations are
presently being developed).
The smooth blasting explosive
Gurit may be replaced by detonating
cord, which has a very high velocity
of detonation. Its small diameter in
relation to the blasthole diameter, and
its low gas content, cause minimum
damage to the surrounding rock. Gurit
11 mm can be replaced by 40 g/m
cord; Gurit 17 mm by 80 g/m cord;
and Gurit 22 mm by 160 g/m cord.
The charges should be connected
together, string charged, and the hole
plugged, otherwise they may be
sucked out of the hole by adjacent

10

V mm/s

Small diameter blastholes

3000

3m
2000

0.23

1000

0.5

1.5

2.5 kg/m
Range where
damage begins

700

3 R, m

Vibration velocity (V) as a function of the distance (R) with

different charge concentration

Vibration velocity with different charges.

explosions. A special blasthole plug

has been developed which locks the
charge in the hole efficiently. These
measures are not necessary, however,
with modern bulk explosives.
The firing of the contour holes
should be carried out with the same
period number for the best result.
To summarize, smooth blasting
offers the following advantages:
increased hole spacing with reduced
drilling cost; better result in incompetent rock formations; simultaneous
excavation; and light and well distributed charging of the perimeter holes.

Cost of Overbreak
Deviation in the excavation of a tunnel
from the theoretical line imposes an
increased construction cost. Traditional
drilling techniques accept an element
of overbreak as normal. However,
more modern technology, such as
Advanced Boom Control, ensures that
blastholes are drilled accurately with
respect to collaring, orientation, length

Contour
hole diam.
mm

Charge
concentration
kg/m

Charge type

2532
2548
5164
5164

0.11
0.23
0.42
0.45

11 mm Gurit
17 mm Gurit
22 mm Gurit
22 mm Emulite

Burden
m
0.30.5
0.70.9
1.01.1
1.11.2

and straightness. The accuracy of such

drillrigs can maintain the true excavation line around 10 cm closer to the
theoretical excavation line.
Four main cost items associated
with accurate drilling have been
identified as: mucking of excessive
rock material; primary shotcrete support; secondary concrete lining; and
extension of construction time.
The following is a summary of the
costs related to excess overbreak on a
tunnel with a cross-section of 70 sq m
and a perimeter of walls and roof of
22 m.
Mucking
Shotcrete support
Concrete lining
Excess time

11/m
66/m
264/m
70/m

By comparison, the cost of explosives and detonators per metre of

tunnel is 181, assuming 4 m rounds.
So, it can be concluded that
accurate drilling will yield savings
equivalent to more than twice the total
explosives costs.

Spacing
m

by Stig Olofsson

0.250.35
0.500.70
0.800.90
0.800.90

This article is extracted from Stig

Olofssons book entitled Applied
Explosives Technology for Construction
and Mining, ISBN 91-7970-634-7,
published by Applex, PO Box 71, S-640
43 Arla, Sweden.
FACE DRILLING

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TALKING TECHNICALLY

Selecting Rock Drilling Tools

for Tunnelling
Optimizing
Penetration Rates
In order to achieve best possible
penetration rate, a bit should be
chosen where the total contact
area between the cemented carbide and the rock creates the best
possible penetration per blow. As
a rule of thumb, the following
penetration rate index can be
used: button bit with full-ballistic
buttons, 150; button bit with ballistic buttons, 130; button bit with
spherical buttons, 115; insert bit,
100. However, when bits are compared for hole straightness, a different order emerges, with the
insert bit on top, followed by the
button bit with full-ballistic or
ballistic button, and lastly, the
button bit with spherical button.
The following article is intended to guide the driller through
the range of bits, rods and shank
adapters to assist with the best
choice of rock tools for the
particular job.

Bit Selection
Button bits dominate 95% of face
drilling applications, so they should
normally be the first choice. It is only
in very special conditions that insert
bits are a better choice.
A number of tests have been carried
out to compare the performance of bits
with spherical or ballistic buttons. The
results have shown that the bits with
ballistic buttons outperform the bits
with spherical buttons with regard to
penetration rate, and in some cases
also offer better service life and longer
grinding intervals.
A bit with ballistic buttons should
be the first choice, but rock conditions
can influence the choice.
Secoroc bit model -37-67 (-67 for
ballistic buttons) is the first and best
choice if the rock is medium hard to
hard.
FACE DRILLING

Model -37-67

Model -37-66

On the other hand, if the rock is

soft to medium hard, the first choice
should be the new Secoroc soft rock
bit model -37-66 (-66 for full-ballistic
buttons).
For very hard and abrasive rock,
model -39 with extra large gauge
buttons is recommended. Model -39 is
available with spherical or ballistic
buttons.
Problems with hole deviation can
best be solved using Secoroc guide bits.
Model -37-30 (-30 for guide bit with
square skirt) has the same front design as
model -37, and is available with spherical or ballistic buttons, but with a longer
square skirt to give extra guidance.

3 front buttons. All the buttons are

full-ballistic and have a 20-25%
higher protrusion than standard ballistic buttons.
The higher button protrusion and
the more pointed profile helps the bit
to penetrate deeper into the rock with
each hammer stroke. The bit also has
improved flushing capacity for the
removal of the cuttings in front of
its head. This has been achieved
by using three front flushing holes,
one side flushing hole and big flushing
grooves at the front and sides of the
bit head, combined with the extended
protrusion of the full-ballistic buttons.
During tests in limestone formations in North America and Europe,
the new -37-66 bits have shown the
same service life as standard ballistic
button bits, but with much higher
penetration rates.

Bit Designs
Full-ballistic button bit for soft
rock Model -37-66
Atlas Copco Secoroc is launching a
new bit model designated -37-66 for
drifting and tunnelling in soft rock formations. The designation -66 stands
for full-ballistic buttons.
The new model is designed with 9
buttons 2 + 2 + 2 gauge buttons and

Model -37
This is one of Secorocs best selling
bit designs. It has proved to be a very
reliable bit in most rock formations,
including hard rock. With a 9-button
design, and very good flushing, it gives
11

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TALKING TECHNICALLY

-37-30-67) or spherical buttons (model

-37-30).
Model -34
This bit design offers good penetration
rate, and is suitable for most rock
formations. It is available with both
spherical (model -34) and ballistic
buttons (model -34-67).

Model -56
This is the oldest Secoroc bit design,
and still going strong. Suitable for
medium hard to hard rock, this model
is available only with spherical buttons.

Model -37

a very high penetration rate. It is available with both spherical (model -37)
and ballistic buttons (model -37-67).
Model -37-30
With 9 buttons and excellent flushing,
model -37-30 offers a very good penetration rate, and is ideal for most rock
formations. When there is problem
with straight holes, this bit should be
the first choice, since it has a steering
guide skirt to avoid hole deviation.
For smaller hole sizes the model
-27 design should be used. These
bits are available with ballistic (model

Model -56

Model -34

Model -27
This design, with the large gauge buttons, is suitable in rock where there is
heavy gauge wear, but not too much
frontal wear. This bit is available with
both spherical (model -27) and ballistic buttons (model -27-67).

Model -39
This is the ideal choice for very hard
and abrasive rock. With extra large
gauge buttons, and the same design
and flushing as model -37, it also
offers good penetration rate. This bit
is available with spherical as well as
ballistic buttons.

Model -39

Insert bit

Model -37-30

12

Model -27

An insert bit produces extremely

straight holes, but has less penetration
rate than a button bit. Normally, it
also has shorter grinding intervals and
service life compared to a button bit.
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TALKING TECHNICALLY

cross-section. Round 39 mm rods are

getting more and more common, especially if hole lengths are 4 m and
longer. The bit end of the rod is slimmer, and has a smaller thread in order
to fit the small bits and hole sizes
used.

Hexagonal vs Round Rod

Insert bit

On the other hand, there are

extreme formations, like iron ore formations and some types of limestone
formations where this bit may be the
only possible choice. Such formations
include very abrasive rock or rock
types, where heavy snakeskin can
occur on the cemented carbide buttons.

Drifter Rod Selection

For drifting and tunnelling, two types
of drill rods can be chosen. Standard
drifter rods have male threads at both
ends. Speedrods have a male thread at
the front end, and an integrated
coupling with a female thread at the
shank end. Both rod types are carburized, which means that all surfaces,
including the inside of the flushing
hole, are hardened.
The carburization gives better wear
resistance, and a higher fatigue
strength, compared to an induction
hardened rod. Standard drifter rods,
as well as Speedrods, are produced
with either a hexagonal or a round
rod section.
For a given hole size, the largest
possible rod cross-section should be
chosen, commensurate with the
required hole size and the rock drill.
This is in order to achieve the best
possible service life, hole straightness
and penetration rate. Normally, a rod
with a T38 or R38 thread in the shank
end will be chosen. The long middle
section of the drifter rod is generally
hexagonal, with a 32 mm or 35 mm
FACE DRILLING

Hexagonal rods are todays standard,

while round rods, diameter 39 mm,
have started to become more and more
common. The round rod is a stiffer
rod, because of more material in the
cross-section. Round rods give
straighter holes, and are therefore recommended when hole deviation is a
problem. Using the round rod, the
flushing properties for clearing the
cuttings out of the hole are not as
good as with the hexagonal rod. This
can result in higher risk of jamming
round rods when drilling in fractured
rock formations, mainly when drilling
45 mm holes or smaller. In homogeneous rock, this is normally not a
problem.

Conventional Rod vs
Speedrod
The connection between the shank
adapter and the drifter rod has traditionally been a separate coupling
sleeve. The Speedrod, with integrated
coupling, has the advantage of approximately 50% less energy loss in the
joint, the normal energy loss can be
reduced from 7-8% down to 3-4%,
because it has only one joint,

compared with two joints for the

coupling sleeve alternative. In practice,
the energy advantage of the Speedrod
joint compared to standard coupling is
even greater, since it is easier to keep
the Speedrod joint tight during
drilling.
In drifting and tunnelling, however,
most of the drilling is done with a
single rod, which makes the energy
argument less important. More important is the fact that the connection
between shank adapter and Speedrod
will be less flexible, compared with
the coupling sleeve alternative. This
could result in shorter service life for
the shank adapter if the maintenance
of the drillrig is not of good standard,
or if the operator is not observant.

Magnum SR Drifting
System
The hole sizes in drifting and tunnelling are small, normally from
38 mm up to 64 mm. Worldwide, the
most common hole size, by far, is
45 mm. The conventional thread size
for a 45 mm bit has, for a long period
of time, been the R32.
With the introduction of more
powerful hydraulic rock drills and
longer rounds, the old thread systems
started to show weakness. It was high
time for fresh ideas, and the new
Secoroc Magnum SR35 thread is the
system for the future in drifting and
tunnelling.
The difference with the Magnum
SR35 design is that the thread is
conical. The diameter is 35 mm at the

Magnum SR35

13

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TALKING TECHNICALLY

end of the thread, and 32 mm at its tip.

By adding 25% more material at the
end of the thread, a substantially
increased metal fatigue resistance has
been achieved. More material where it
is really needed means less rod breakage, less tendency for deviation when
collaring, straighter holes, and considerably longer service life.
Summing up, the first choice for a
drifter rod should be a conventional rod
with male thread at the shank end and
Magnum SR35 thread at the bit end.
Speedrods can be used by highly
skilled operators, where there is a very
good maintenance programme in place.
Hexagonal or round cross-section
should be decided according to hole
characteristics and rock conditions.

Reaming Equipment
It is always necessary, in drifting and
tunnelling operations, to make an opening in the tunnel face to provide expansion space for the rock when blasting
out the complete round. The most
common method is the parallel hole cut.
Cut hole drilling of the large centre
hole, or holes, is usually carried out by
reaming, which first requires the drilling
of a pilot hole with the ordinary blasthole drillbit. The pilot hole is then
reamed from actual hole size to 76 mm127 mm. Please note that the stress
level on the rod will increase with
increased cut hole size. This can lead to
premature thread wear or rod breakage.

It is made from specially selected

material, to withstand the transmission
of impact energy and rotation from
the rock drill to the drillstring, and is
hardened through carburizing. Around
400 different shank adapters are currently available from Atlas Copco
Secoroc.
Shank adapters can be divided into
three main types, based on the technique used to transfer the rotation
motors torque to the drillrod.
The three types of shank adapters
are as follows:
Dome bit

Reaming can be carried out using

either a traditional pilot adapter with a
reaming bit, or the new Secoroc dome
bit. The dome bit offers a shorter total
time for drilling of the cut hole,
compared with conventional reaming
equipment. Due to the reverse flushing
on the dome bit, stress levels on drill
string, rock drill and drillrig are
reduced when withdrawing the bit
from the hole. The dome bit is also
easier to regrind when the buttons
have been worn.
There is also just the one product to
keep in stock, compared with pilot
adapter and reaming bit.

Leyner for older types of air-driven drills

Polygon, for the newest generation of air driven

drills. Note the female thread

Shank Adapters
The task of the shank adapter is to
transmit rotation torque, feed force,
impact energy, and flushing medium.

Matching face bits to differing rock conditions

Spline, for modern hydraulic rock drills

Shank adapters with female thread

are available for some adapter types.
They can be used when there are
length restrictions on the drillrig feed
beam. A shank adapter with female
thread will result in a stiff and inflexible connection to the drifter rod,
which may result in shorter service
life for the drifter rod. Good care and
maintenance of the drill rig, and an
observant operator, are required. The
first alternative should always be a
shank adapter with male thread.

by Alf Stenqvist
14

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TALKING TECHNICALLY

Getting into Perfect Shape

Accurate Contours
Promote Economy
Achieving accurate contours in
tunnelling operations dramatically improves the total economy of
the project. This is where Atlas
Copcos contour control system is
making its mark. It is now available in automated mode on
Rocket Boomer drillrigs, and the
cost benefits resulting from
reduced overbreak can make the
difference between a successful
contract, and working for nothing.

Introduction
An inaccurate contour, or planned outline, of a tunnel following drilling and
blasting, has long been a problem for
tunnellers the world over.
The dilemma is created by inexact
drilling of the blast holes. This results
in overbreak, or excess rock, being
blasted out, leaving irregularities in
the planned contour of the tunnel.
In simple terms, the more overbreak, the more time and money is
wasted. Transporting the excess rock,
perhaps over a considerable distance,
and restoring the tunnel to its smooth
contour with reinforcement and lining,
all means time lost.

Facts and Figures

The considerable costs of overbreak
can be illustrated by this hypothetical
example: a 70 sq m two-lane road
tunnel, 1 km long, is being built and,
according to the tender documents,
only theoretical volumes of excavated
rock will be paid for by the client.
Likewise, the cost of the secondary
lining will be paid. Geological overbreak is compensated for in the contract, and the perimeter length of the
tunnel is typically 22 m.
A reduced overbreak of 10 cm
resulting from more-accurate drilling
gives the contractor the following
savings in Euro: concrete secondary
FACE DRILLING

lining, 2,200 cu m x 120/cu m =

264,000; reduced mucking out,
2,200 cu m x 5/cu m = 11,000;
reduced shotcrete, 200 cu m x
300/cu m = 60,000; reduced construction time 100 hours x 700/h =
70,000. Total savings: 405,000.
These figures illustrate the magnitude of the overbreak problem.
However, placing holes accurately and
with a proper alignment is not new. It
could be achieved, even in the era of
hand-held drills, using short rounds.
But the problem was the amount of
time it took.

Best Technique
As far back as the mid-80s, an overbreak of less than 10 cm was recorded
on drill-and-blast sewage declines in
Sydney, Australia using both handheld and mechanized drilling.
During the same period, on the
Route 5 tunnel project in Hong Kong,
mechanized
drilling
operations
employed the best techniques then
available for accurate contours. They
involved accurate setting out of the
tunnel face, TAS (Tunnel Angle
System) for the alignment of the feeds,
an immediate monitoring of the profile, plus a bonus to the rig operators.
The results are shown in Figure 1.
More light at the end of the tunnel
came in recent years, in the shape of
a manual contour control system

Figure 1: Overbreak improvement at the Route 5

tunnelling project in Hong Kong.

introduced by the Norwegian company

Bever. It has been mounted on a large
number of drillrigs, mainly Atlas
Copco Boomer units. The operator is
guided by data on a TV monitor, while
manually positioning the booms to
achieve more accurately-located holes.
Then, in 1998, following years of
development, Atlas Copco launched
its own contour control system, which
is now integrated into its new generation of drillrigs. Initially, it was operational only in manual mode, but, since
the end of 1999, it has been available
for automated mode.
The following four examples of
what can be achieved with Atlas
Copco Boomer rigs equipped with
Bever control are from projects over
the past five years. The first two cases
involve drilling with Robot Boomer
rigs.

Henriksdal sewage treatment

plant, Stockholm, Sweden.
The contractor wanted very high
drilling standards, although there was
no secondary concrete lining in the
design. The length of the rounds was
4.5 m, and the size of the opening
some 80 sq m. The rock was hard
crystalline granites and gneiss, which
were not expected to cause major
deviation problems.
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TALKING TECHNICALLY

mine. The excellent results achieved at

Boliden are due to the skill of the dedicated rig operators, and the fact that
the rock itself does not generate any
noticeable overbreak.

Reducing Overbreak

Figure 2: Similar overbreak advances at the

Henriksdal and Escalette projects.

The skill of the operators was rated

highly, and conditions were favourable. However, incentives were not
strong, as there were no savings to
be made on concrete. The average
overbreak was 14 cm outside the
collaring line, and the distribution is
shown in Figure 2.

Escalette road tunnel project,

Southern France.
The two tunnel tubes were to be concrete lined, with a strong incentive to
keep overbreak down. Excavated sedimentary material was dominated by
limestone, which had clear bedding
planes with a gentle dip. The tunnels
were some 700 m long with an excavated cross-section of about 70 sq m.
Rounds were 4 m-long, or less if
ground conditions were poor. Tunnel
sections with geological overbreak
were excluded.
The results, also shown in Figure 2,
were very similar to Henriksdal,
although conditions were quite different. They showed what can be
achieved, by the equipment and good
operators, in moderate-size tunnels
without difficult geological conditions.

Mitholz tunnel, Switzerland.

The adit access to the AlpTransit
Ltschberg base tunnel showed most
encouraging results on overbreak,
using the Bever control system. The
1.5 km-long adit has an excavated section of 66 sq m, and the rock was
limestone and shale. Normally, 4 m
rounds were drilled using a Rocket
16

Boomer 353 S, and the average pull

was 3.8 m. In the 0.6 m-spaced
perimeter holes, smooth blasting
explosives were used, with electronic
detonators.
The contractor wanted as little
overbreak as possible, as he had to pay
SwF 300 for every cubic metre of rock
broken more than 6 cm outside the
theoretical line. Over the entire tunnel
length, this meant the penalty for
every extra centimetre of average
overbreak was SwF 93,000.
For the first 100-200 m of the
tunnel, average overbreak was 25 cm.
But by the time work had progressed
to 700 m, it had come down to 10 cm,
as the skill of the drilling crews
improved.

Bolidens Garpenberg Norra

Mine, Sweden.
An Atlas Copco Rocket Boomer 352 S
has been used on a recent section of
the ramp tunnel, and overbreak was
reduced from more than 20% to 9%,
or an average of 15 cm. This resulted
in a reduction of the muck volume of
3 cu m/linear metre of tunnel, and
savings on transport from a depth of
800-1,000 m. According to the mine
management, the savings achieved in
one year paid for the extra cost of
improving drilling operations at the
Improper collaring will result in major deviation of
the drill holes.

So what are the main factors in reducing overbreak?

First, the ambition of the site managers and operators is extremely
important. Close monitoring of the
tunnel face is a must, in order to register undue overbreak and take counter
measures, and a small bonus to the
people involved can lead to great
results.
Geological conditions can have a
large effect on hole direction. The drill
string has a tendency to deviate perpendicular to the foliation in
anisotropic rock like phyllite, schist
and gneiss. The problem is more acute
when longer rounds are used. A high
frequency of joints in the rock can also
influence the drilling direction.
Blasting is extremely important,
and employing the smooth blasting
technique with electronic detonators in
the periphery holes can contribute
greatly to a smooth tunnel contour.
Tunnel size affects drilling accuracy.
When booms and feeds are extended
to the full, they are not so rigid, and
deflections can occur. Exact computerized compensation is not easy to
achieve, and the further out the booms
are, the greater the collaring and orientation errors can be.
Alignment of the feed is critical at
the start of drilling. A tunnel face
which is not orientated perpendicular to
the drill rod may cause it to bend,
making for an inaccurate starting point.
Low feed force, and reduced impact at
the start, improves collaring, and thus
the straightness of the hole. The feed
force should be just enough to maintain
tight joints without bending the rod.
Fast and accurate drilling requires
dedication, experience, and reliable,
state-of-the-art drillrigs. With these
prerequisites, there are not many sites
where the economic advantages of
contour control can be ignored.

by Gunnar Nord
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TALKING TECHNICALLY

Getting the Drift with

Magnum SR
Battling Rod
Breakage
The tried and tested thread systems, R25, R28 and R32, have
served underground drillers well
for many years. However, with
the introduction of ever-more
powerful hydraulic rigs, these
battle-worn solutions started to
show weakness. Rod breakage at
the bit end, either just behind the
skirt or on the last thread, was
becoming distressingly common.
Why? Because its the most vulnerable part of the rod. Consequently, bits were lost, leading
to costly downtime. Even worse,
holes often had to be re-drilled,
sending productivity due south.
Putting it bluntly, drifting equipment was struggling to cope
with the power of the new rigs. It
was high time for fresh ideas.
Intensive
development
by
Atlas Copco Secoroc has come
up with the new Magnum SR
range, which counters problems
with breakage, and offers performance to match that of the
modern rock drill.

Thread of Innovation
To solve the problem of rod breakage,
Atlas Copco Secoroc faced two
choices: either increase the dimensions
of the rods and bits in the same way as
everybody else, or find a new way.
Being notoriously stubborn innovators, the choice was easy.
During the creative process, three
important insights emerged. First, the
hole sizes should remain the same as
for drilling with standard equipment.
Second, the bits should be easy to
uncouple. And third, the old thread
design had to be replaced.
As with all genuinely groundbreaking endeavours, the solution was
deceptively simple. The secret of
the Magnum SR35 design is that the
diameter is 35 mm at the end of
FACE DRILLING

Magnum SR bits and rods.

the thread, and 32 mm at its tip. By

adding 25% more steel at the end of
the thread, the new design was given a
distinctive, conical shape. This concept not only upped the fatigue resistance of the rods, but also reduced the
tendency to deviate during collaring.
The bits are also successful,
because they are very easy to uncouple, so the patented Atlas Copco
Secoroc Magnum SR has already
proved a big hit with operators.
The new Magnum SR35 drifting
system, specially designed for the new
generation of powerful drillrigs,
delivers more and straighter holes per
shift, and has a considerably longer
service life than any competing system
or solution.

Field Tests Worldwide

Extensive field tests with the Magnum
SR have been carried out on four continents, and involved more than a half
million metres of drilling over a
period of one year.

The system was put through its

paces in mines, and in a variety
of tunnelling projects. The results
were unequivocal: service life and
rig availability both enjoyed sharp
increases.
The tests showed that the Magnum
SR35 system increased service life by
25-100% on the drifter rods, compared
to their conventional R32 counterparts; gave better service life of the
bits; and created very high operator
acceptance, due to easy uncoupling of
the drill bits. This resulted in higher
drilling productivity, thanks to easy
collaring, straighter holes and better
equipment availability during the
drilling cycle.

Expanding Family
The Magnum SR drifting system was
first introduced with the SR35, which
has a comprehensive selection of
equipment, including hexagonal 35 mm
in standard drifter and Speedrod
designs, and round 39 mm standard
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Dawn of a New Era

Magnum SR Dome bit ready for reaming.

drifter and Speedrods in lengths from

3.1 m up to 6.1 m-long.
The SR35 Focus button bits are
available from 43 mm up to 64 mm,
and reaming equipment comprises
pilot adapters and reaming bits, as
well as the new Dome bits.
For applications where accuracy
and straightness are paramount, the
Magnum SR Straight, with its 39 mm
diameter rod, plus SR35 guide bit, has
proved that it can deliver the expected
results.
The next addition to the family is
the Magnum SR28 range. Tests have
shown that SR28 is perfect for the
rapid drilling of holes for rockbolts,
but can also be used for small hole
drifting. This new line replaces the
traditional R25 system in drilling
33-35 mm holes.
Tests in rockbolting applications
have shown convincing increases in
service life, for both SR28 rods and
bits. As with all other Magnum SR
products, the bits are easy to uncouple,
and as a result the drillstring is
subjected to fewer damaging shockwaves, facilitating rapid changes and
more holes drilled. Altogether, that
means less downtime changing
bits and rods, and more time spent
drilling.
Magnum SR35, together with
Magnum SR28, are ultimately aimed
at helping drillers advance the tunnel
18

face, or drill bolt holes, quicker than

ever before.
A new member of the family is
SR32, which is specially designed for
hole diameters of 38-41 mm. The
product underwent extensive field tests
prior to its launch and is today a strong
member of the growing Magnum SR
family.

The trend in drifting and tunnelling

is clear: the rounds are getting
longer, and the rigs more powerful.
Magnum SR was designed to withstand the high pressures that are
typical of todays underground drilling
operations.
Although Magnum SR is an
innovative breakthrough product, the
enthusiasm with which it has been
received, and the performance that it
delivers, have given an indication of
the direction in which the product is
heading.
Atlas Copco Secoroc is genuinely
confident that Magnum SR marks the
dawn of a new era in drifting and tunnelling, as well as for rockbolting.
The success of this innovative
system is beyond dispute. Major
mines in Sweden, Canada and
Australia have switched completely to
Magnum SR equipment. Drillers using
it are not only drilling more and
straighter holes than before, theyre
also finding that Magnum SR lasts
longer than any competing solution.

by Anders Arvidsson

Magnum SR used in a bolting application.

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TALKING TECHNICALLY

The Economic Case for Routine

Bit Grinding
throughout its entire life. It has also
been shown that bit life is increased
considerably when grinding wheels
are used, rather than grinding cups.
Wheels also excavate steel around the
button, simplifying the grinding task,
and giving the bit a more exact profile.

Cutting Hole Costs

The button bit was originally
developed to do the job of an
insert bit, without the necessity
for frequent grinding. However, it
was soon found that the service
life of a button bit increased considerably if the cemented carbide
buttons were ground.
Nowadays, it has become
extremely important to grind
button bits at proper intervals, in
order to extend the service life of
the rock drilling tool, maintain
penetration rates, and drill
straight holes.
In all rock excavation operations, the cost is usually expressed
in cost per drilled metre (cost/dm),
in cost per cubic metre (cost/cu m),
or in cost per tonne.
The cost to produce a hole
depends on how fast it can be
drilled, and how many tools will
be consumed. The cost to produce a cubic metre of rock is
dependent upon the cost of the
hole, and the cost of blasting. If
the blasthole is of poor quality,
then more explosives will be
consumed in blasting the rock.
Worn bits very often give a poor
quality hole with deviation.
Grinding constitutes around
2% of the costs of the entire
drilling operation. To run the
business without grinding could
multiply this cost, with up to
100% added when production
losses are taken into account.
Labour and material are the highest costs, while the machine
investment cost is low when
utilization is high, with a large
number of bits to be ground.

Grinding Methods
There are two different methods of bit
grinding to restore the buttons. The
preferred method uses a diamond
coated profiled wheel, and the other, a
grinding cup.
The profiled wheel provides a
smooth and efficient grinding operation,
FACE DRILLING

Bit Life

The Secoroc Grind Matic BQ2 grinding machine

can handle drillbits up to 127 mm in diameter.

which, throughout its life, maintains

the correct button shape and protrusion. It features correct centring on all
buttons, producing a high quality
cemented carbide surface, with no risk
of cemented carbide nipple. Long bit
life, and higher penetration rates, will
result from good grinding quality.
Disadvantages of using the grinding
cup are that it may produce an incorrect
button shape and protrusion. It is difficult to centre the grinding cup over the
gauge button, and there is also a risk of
producing a sharp cemented carbide
nipple on the button, and a possibility
of scratches due to the larger diamond
grain used. Reduced bit life will result
from poor grinding quality.
Several tests have been carried out
to find which method gives the best bit
performance. The grinding wheel
gives the correct shape to the button,
regardless of the amount of wear on
the wheel, ensuring that the bit will
achieve standard penetration rate

With so many parameters involved, it

is difficult to estimate bit service life.
First, a proper grinding interval must
be established, preferably at the stage
when the button has a wear flat of one
third of the button diameter. When the
number of drilled metres to reach this
stage has been established, then a calculation of bit life can be made, by
multiplying by the number of times it
can be reground. As a general rule, a
bit can be reground 10 times, but
smaller bits may achieve slightly less
than this figure, while larger bits may
achieve more. So, if the grinding interval has been established as 60 drill
metres, then the average bit life will
be 660 drill metres (diagram 1). If a
bit is overdrilled, and the wear flat is
more than half of the button diameter,
there is a tendency towards cracked
buttons. There is always a sharp edge
created on the button, and this
becomes sharper the more the bit is
Diagram 1: Typical bit life grinding at different
intervals.

700

Total bit life

drill metres

600

10 regrindings
per drill bit

500

400

300

200

Grinding interval
drill metres

100

0
10

20

30

40

50

60

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TALKING TECHNICALLY

the surface has to be ground away,

otherwise the micro cracks lead to
more severe damage on the buttons.
Likewise, buttons which protrude too
much must be ground down to avoid
damage (diagram 2).

Penetration Rate

Diagram 2: Risk of total loss when a bit is overdrilled.

overdrilled. This sharp edge, especially on ballistic buttons, is very brittle.

Once the edge cracks, pieces of
cemented carbide break away and circulate in the hole, causing secondary
damage to the buttons.

When a bit doesnt show any visible wear flat, it may be suffering from
micro cracks on the cemented carbide
surface. This is known colloquially as
snake skin, and can be clearly seen
when using a magnifier. In this case,

Diagram 3: Penetration rate drops as the button profiles flatten.

When the right bit has been chosen for

the rock condition, it will provide
maximum penetration rate, along with
acceptable hole straightness. In rock
conditions like Swedish granite, with a
compressive strength of around 2,200
bar, the bit gets a wear flat after just
10-20 drill metres, accompanied by a
small drop in penetration rate. When it
has a wear flat equivalent to one-third
of the button diameter, the penetration
will have dropped by 5%. If the bit is
used further until it has a two-thirds
wear flat, the penetration will have
dropped more than 30% (diagram 3).
When a bit has a heavy wear flat it
tends to deviate, and, by the time it
reaches the bottom of the hole, it will
have deviated far more than planned.
As a result, the blast will produce
coarse fragmentation, and much secondary blasting may be required.
In contour hole drilling, it is of
utmost importance that the holes are
straight. If the holes deviate, the tunnel
walls will be uneven, making rock reinforcement more difficult than expected.
Rock formations with different
layers and joints are often characterized by heavy hole deviation, putting
extra stress on the remaining rock
tools in the drill string. A sharp bit
always cuts better, and will prevent
both deviation, and its disadvantages.

Grinding Machines
Two parameters guide the selection of
the right grinding machine: the
number of bits to be ground; and
whether the machine should be
portable or stationary. Several kinds of
grinding machines are available to satisfy these parameters. In most cases, a
simple machine will suffice for a small
operation, grinding only a few bits.
The semi-automatic machines are
more suitable for larger operations,
such as mines and construction sites,
20

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TALKING TECHNICALLY

9
8
7

Labour cost
6

Grinding material cost

5

Machine cost
4
3
2

Annual grinding volume buttons. Figures

1

on the left side of the diagram show cost index

0
100 000

75 000

50 000

25 000

10 000

5 000

per button.

Cost of grinding reduces dramatically with volume.

where the machine can be stationary,

and the rock tools can be brought to it.
Grind Matic HG is a water or aircooled hand held machine for grinding
cups. Both spherical and ballistic cups
are available. The machine is driven
by up to 7 bar compressed air, and is
suitable for a small grinding operation.
Grind Matic Manual B is an airdriven portable grinder using diamondcoated grinding wheels for spherical
and ballistic buttons. The machine is
mounted in a box fitted with wheels
and handles for easy set up. It is mainly
for threaded button bits, but small
down-the-hole bits can be ground in
this machine. A steel spring is mounted
in the profile of the grinding wheel,
Comparison of grinding wheel with grinding cup.

where it functions as a centring device,

allowing for easy grinding.
Grind Matic Manual B-DTH is
similar to the Grind Matic Manual B.
It is mainly intended for down-thehole bits, but can also be used for
threaded bits with a special bit holder.
As an optional accessory, the machine
can be equipped with a belt grinder for
gauge grinding.
Grind Matic BQ2 is the latest semiautomatic machine, with many features
such as auto-indexing device, timer
control, automatic feed, and an automatic centring arm. These features,
coupled to an ergonomic design, ensure
high productivity, and the machine is
designed to handle large volumes of

Grind Matic Manual B.

threaded button bits. Cooling water is

recycled after the waste product has
been separated in a container.
Grind Matic BQ2-DTH is the latest
grinding machine for mainly downthe-hole and Coprod bits. It can also
be used for threaded bits with a special
bit holder. The machine has the same
features as Grind Matic BQ2, and can
grind bits up to 7 in-diameter.

Grinding Advice
The Grind Matic machines secret of
success is that both the grinding table
and the diamond grinding wheel
rotate. The result is perfectly ground
button surfaces, regardless of whether
the buttons are spherical or ballistic.
In addition, the machines unique
diamond grinding wheel is designed to
ensure even wear on its grinding surface, while still retaining its profile.
This, in turn, guarantees the button
shape throughout the life of the wheel.
Secoroc advice is to use Grind
Matic grinding machines, with profiled
diamond grinding wheels, for grinding
button bits.
Correct grinding is important for
every drilling operation, particularly in
these days of cost consciousness and
fierce competition.

by Bo Persson
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Improved Rock Drilling With

Diarot Analysis
Simulation Assists
Problem Solving
For over a decade, Atlas Copco
experts have gathered data from
mining, surface drilling and tunnelling projects all over the
world. This information has been
stored in Diarot, a rock drilling
simulation program. Diarot is a
unique system, which makes it
possible to simulate rock drilling
on a particular rig, and then evaluate the result. All without leaving the office! Diarot assists the
customer in choosing the right
parameters for his rig before the
first hole is ever drilled. Likewise,
if a problem occurs in the field,
possibly because there has been
a change in the geology of the
rock to be drilled, Diarot can
delineate the problem and identify the solution. Numerous case
histories from different applications have been recorded where
Diarot has come up with the
right answer. Whether the drill
bit is wrong for the rock, or the
rock drill stroke is too long, or
the hydraulic oil temperature is
running too high, Diarot will
analyze the problem and make
recommendations to improve the
entire rock drilling process.
Diarot will always give an answer,
and, if the customer input is correct, the answer will be correct.

Introduction
Achieving the optimal performance
from a drillrig involves practical testing to evaluate penetration rate, grinding intervals, service life and costs, to
find the most efficient combination of
components such as drill bits and drill
strings.
Diarot contains a database, with
information on each of Atlas Copcos
rock drills and other components, as
well as rock data from various areas
throughout the world. The program
takes into consideration all the parts
22

Diarot will optimize drilling rates and drillsteel economy.

contained in a system, including the

rock drill, bits and drill steel, feed,
hydraulic system, parameter settings,
and the nature and condition of the
rock.
Good drilling economy requires
drill steel joints that are well tightened. A well-tightened joint is
obtained through sufficient rotation
resistance from the bit.
Friction losses in the hoses, the
rotation motor, and the gear in the
rock drill all contribute to the idling
rotation pressure. The geometry of the
drill steel threads, and the dimensions
of the bit, demand a certain torque for
joints to be well tightened, and this

torque increases with the rotation

speed. The torque in the drill steel is
proportional to the rotation pressure
increase from idling to drilling. The
drillrig control system should accordingly be designed so that the thrust
force is automatically adjusted to hold
the rotation pressure at a predetermined value. When drilling in softer
rock, the buttons penetrate deeper
into the bottom of the hole, and a
greater torque is required to rotate
the drill steel, unless the thrust force is
not reduced simultaneously. Diarot
tells the user what rotation pressure
should be applied to obtain welltightened drill steel joints. It simply
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TALKING TECHNICALLY

Rocket Boomer L1 C-DH drillrig at Linwood Stone.

specifies the settings for percussion

pressure, rotation speed, drill steel
dimensions, thread geometry, and so
on.

Unique Tool
Diarot is unique, with its library of
gathered information, and the possibility to simulate the activity of a
complete rig. For example, when projecting drillrig performance for a
tunnel, or when designing equipment
upgrades, it is possible to simulate
drilling with a large number of different rock drills, as their characteristics
are stored in the library. The settings
of these rock drills can be fine-tuned,
and tested, in order to arrive at the
right results for a particular project.
Likewise, different rock drills or drill
strings can be tested for the same
application in varying rock conditions,
in order to adjust settings such as feed
force, rotation speed, stroke position
and impact pressure.
The expected drilling rates can be
calculated, and the optimal setting of
the system can be delineated. It can be
decided whether new rock drills on
old rigs will be an alternative, or
whether it is better to buy new rigs.
Diarot will also work out if different
bit grinding intervals will make a difference to bit life.
Reverse calculations using Diarot
make it possible to determine the
character of a rock, based on measured
production results. That calculated
rock quality can then be used to investigate the effect of changing other
FACE DRILLING

parameters, such as rock drill, percussion pressure, and stroke lengths.

When it comes to rock drilling,
there are many factors governing the
overall result, and all parts of the
process must work smoothly. Diarot is
a unique tool, in that it is possible to
measure and control the entire process,
before the first hole is even drilled!

Better performance
At a worksite close to Stockholms
Arlanda international airport, an Atlas
Copco ROC 642HP drillrig was bench
drilling 76 mm holes. The temperature
on the coupling was 80 degrees C,
and a Diarot simulation was carried
Going full-ballistic at Linwood. The new Secoroc
button bit model -37-66, with longer button
protrusion and improved flushing capacity, for
increased penetration rate in soft rock.

out to evaluate different drill bits,

with reference to the optimal settings
of the COP 1838HE rock drill.
Ballistic bits were tested, and proved
to be the best, resulting in increased
performance.
The COP 1838HE rock drill being
used has different stroke positions, as
opposed to a conventional drill with a
single fixed stroke length. Changing
the stroke length gives an extra dimension in tuning the impact energy and
frequency. In this case, position 3,
with an impact pressure of 180 bar,
had been used for drilling to date. The
Diarot recommendation was to change
to a shorter stroke, using position 2,
with an impact pressure of 205 bar.
Different rotation speed and feed
force settings were adjusted to the
higher frequency produced by the rock
drill, and the Diarot simulation also
provided a full recommendation for all
settings. The rock drill ran much more
smoothly, and the coupling temperature halved, from around 80 degrees C
to 40 degrees C.
The rig used 3.6 m-long T45 rods
for drilling holes ranging between 6 m
and 15 m deep, and the regrinding
interval was some 50 m. After ten
regrinds, it was difficult to maintain
the ballistic profile of the buttons, and
the customer re-sharpened them to a
conventional spherical profile.
With the application of the new
Diarot settings, wear on the threads
was low, uncoupling the rods was
easy, and the life of the Secoroc bits
exceeded 1,200 m.
Weekly production increased from
1,400 m to an average of 1,700 m, with
a best week of 1,820 m. Fuel consumption was low at 15 lit/hour, a
figure which is less than half that of
comparable rigs, and which saved
more than a half litre of dieseline per
drilled metre. At 40,000 m/year, the
call to Diarot proved a great saver!

Improved Penetration
At Auersmacher in Germany, the Diarot
program was used on a diesel-hydraulic
single-boom Rocket Boomer L1 C-DH
equipped with a COP 1838HF rock drill
to establish the correct settings for the
rig. Blast holes of 51 mm diameter are
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TALKING TECHNICALLY

now being drilled to depths of 3.4 m in

limestone at 6-8 m/min, a doubling of
the previous standard performance. In
this case, the optimum rotation speed
was calculated to be 400 rev/min.
Dropping it to 300 rev/min reduces the
penetration rate by 2 m/min.
Another Rocket Boomer L1 C-DH
was delivered to the Linwood Stone
mine in Iowa, USA for use in limestone with an average compressive
strength of 165 Mpa. This rig is
equipped with RCS using ABC Basic
software for assisted boom positioning, collaring point, hole direction,
hole depth control, and statistics. The
result was actually better than calculated, because of changing the rotation
speed to 400+ rev/min and using a
newly developed button bit from Atlas
Copco Secoroc, with increased button
protrusion, and more and bigger flushing holes.
The Rocket Boomer L1 C-DH is
achieving penetration rates of 3.5 to
4.5 m/min, which is a doubling in
output over the previous generation
of drillrigs. The Diarot calculation
was used to find the correct settings
for the drillrig, without using trial and
error.
At Mineradao Serra Da Fortaleza in
Brazil, data was collected from a COP
1238ME rock drill mounted on a
Simba H254. The Diarot calculation
indicated that the regrinding interval
should be reduced to once every two
holes. The result was a penetration
rate increase to 1.09 m/min from
0.99 m/min. As a bonus, shank life
increased from 1,810 to 2,360 drilled
metres and rod life increased from 450
to 580 drilled metres.
At Companhia Vale Do Rio Doce
(CVRD) another COP 1238ME
mounted on a Simba H254 was studied, resulting in a recommendation
being made to decrease the regrinding
interval to one hole. Penetration rate
was increased from 0.99 m/min to
1.28 m/min. Shank life also increased
from 1,420 drilled metres to 2,450
drilled metres and rod life from 310
drilled metres to 530 drilled metres.
In both of these cases, the bits were
being over-drilled, with large risk of
button breakage, which can lead to a
reduction of the average drill bit life.
24

In all cases, not only the impact

pressure had to be changed, but also
the feed pressure and the rotation
speed. It is very important to change
all settings according to the calculations, in order to achieve the forecast
result.
The measuring of the coupling temperature during drilling is also important. The worst condition exists just
before regrinding the bit, at the time
when it generates the lowest torque. If
the torque becomes too low, then the
wear of the threads will increase, since
the joint runs open, with a reduction of
drill steel life as a consequence.

Bit Life
Consumption of drill bits forms a significant part of the costs of blast hole
drilling in construction and mining.
During drilling, the cemented carbide
buttons, or inserts, wear flat. When
drilling is carried out with constant
percussion pressure, the drilling rate
decreases with increasing wear flat. If
the drilling continues long enough
without regrinding, then the drilling
rate finally becomes zero. This occurs
earlier for bigger drill bits, and for
harder rock.
The drilling rate and the wear flat
increase are linked, and determined by
several input data, such as piston
mass, percussion pressure, drill steel
rotation rate, thrust force, drill steel
dimensions, bit diameter, number of
buttons and button size, button wear
resistance, flushing medium, and rock
hardness and abrasivity.
The ideal temperature on the coupling should be
down to 60C for air flushing and 45C for water
flushing.

For example, water flushing provides better cooling and less wear flat
than air flushing. However, when the
bit penetrates the bottom of the hole
with about the same velocity as the
impact velocity of the piston, which is
about 10 m/s, significant energy is
required to push away the water in
front of the bit. This results in a
reduced drilling rate in comparison
with air flushing.
The Diarot computer program uses
physical models for most factors that
determine the drilling rate and the
wear flat increase of the bit, and the
drilling economy. For the remainder,
empirical relations are used in terms
of analytical mathematical equations.
The constants in these empirical relations are always non-dimensional, and
are obtained by comparing calculated
values with measured ones from many
real drilling operations of widely
different character.

Snakeskin
The Diarot program allows the user to
calculate the stress on the bit that leads
to fatigue, or breakage of the buttons
or inserts.
Drilling in certain rock, such as
limestone and marble, causes negligible wear to the bit. The buttons are
heated by the friction, and cooled by
the flushing medium.
This results in micro-cracking in
the cemented carbide button surfaces.
When these cracks are not continuously
removed by abrasive wear, they grow
into the cemented carbide, and eventually become visible as snakeskin. If
such snakeskin is not regularly
removed by regrinding, then the buttons will eventually fall apart, or be
crushed.
Diarot does not allow longer
regrinding intervals than 400 m. If the
input data indicate a greater regrinding
interval than 400 m, then the program
adjusts the value of the regrinding
wear flat to below 400 m. The output
data indicates that 0.5 mm is ground
off the buttons to eliminate snake skin,
and that the number of possible
regrindings is calculated accordingly.
The total cost for the bit, including
regrinding, is of utmost interest for the
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TALKING TECHNICALLY

File name

LINWOOD DAVENPORT IOWA

LINWOOD1838HF
Linwood1838HF.DAT

customer. If the penetration rate drops,

the drill steel and the shank life
decreases, and excessive vibration and
wear results on the drillrig.

Application

DRIFTING

Diarot in Tunnels

Rig
Feed
Rock drill
Stroke length position
Percussion pressure
Rotation motor
Oil temperature
Oil viscosity at 40C

R.BOOMER L1 C-DH
BMH 6316
COP 1838HF-R38H35 05

The Diarot expert program is available

to owners of tunnelling drillrigs. All
that is required is for the customer to
provide reliable drilling information to
his Atlas Copco service engineer.
Details are needed of parameters, such
as percussion pressure, rotation rate,
and the corresponding accumulated
drilling rate, plus the wear flat on the
drill bit insert or button after one
regrinding interval. The service engineer will send the information to a
Diarot specialist for analysis.
He will start with a reverse Diarot
calculation to determine relevant rock
data, which is then used to work out
the most effective drilling rates for
other settings, situations and equipment. The results are presented to the
customer, and, once the recommendations are implemented, the Diarot specialist will monitor the feedback. All
communications can be via the
Internet.
In the Diarot system, calculation of
the total performance of drillrig, feed,
control system, rock drill, drill steel
and drill bit supports the concept of
Total Rock Drilling Technology.
At the Viiki Extension Project in
Helsinki, Finland, contractor YIT
compared the performance of a COP
1838ME rock drill with the new COP
1838HF.
Diarot calculations predicted a 20%
increase in performance. Practical
drilling at the site with both rock drills
produced the following penetration
rates for a 51 mm bit with ballistic
buttons: COP 1838ME 1.85 m/min;
COP 1838HF 2.33 m/min. In both
cases the relative drill stress was on
the same level. Parameters such as
impact pressure, feed pressure, and
rotation speed were set according to
the Diarot calculations. The HF version was the clear winner, with a 26%
higher penetration rate than its rival,
the ME.

INPUT DATA
Project

MPa

22,5
OMS 100
40
46

C
cSt

Rock designation
location
compressive strength
stamp strength
brittleness
indexation parameter
Cherchar Abrasivity Index
density

kg/m3

LIMESTONE
LINWOOD IOWA USA
165
1650
1,15
8,10
2,00
2700

Hole depth
Drilling direction (>0 is upwards)

5,1
0

Drill steel

MPa
MPa
mm

designation
length
male/female

R38H35
5,40
No
51
ballistic button
9
6
10,0
N
0,20
5,0
Air

Bit diameter
insert type
number of buttons
number of periphery buttons
periphery button diameter
RETRAC
Rock-bit friction coefficient
Regrinding wear flat
Flushing medium

mm

mm

mm

OUTPUT DATA
Project
File name

LINWOOD DAVENPORT IOWA

LINWOOD1838HF
Linwood1838HF.DAT

Application

DRIFTING

Percussion pressure
Impact frequency
Relative drill stress
Number of regrindings
Diameter wear after 2 regrindings
Recommended air flushing flow

MPa
Hz
%
mm
l/sec

22,5
69
91
2
1,7
18

Rotation rate

rpm

256

205

154

Accumulated drilling rate

Regrinding interval
Bit service life

m/min
m
m

3,62
1109
3326

3,53
1172
3516

3,26
1260
3779

Shank service life

Coupling service life
Rod service life

m
m
m

6 990
4 890
4 040

Optimum

Selected diarot input and output data for COP 1838HF.

FACE DRILLING

Reduced

by ke Eklf
25

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TALKING TECHNICALLY

The IREDES Initiative

Standard Formats
Cost pressure and cycling product prices are pushing mining
companies to a permanent
increase of automation. In major
mining houses, remote controlled and autonomous equipment is in operation today. A
further trend to be expected, and
already started, is the companywide concentration of all operation activities in centrally located
operation centres. Thinking
ahead, this philosophy will also
make the operation of smaller
mining sites feasible, some of
which are regarded as inefficient
today.
However, in such environments, all equipment in the mine
has to be data controlled. So, in
order not to end up in huge software projects, standardization of
the data exchange between the
equipment and central computer
systems has to be seen as a
precondition.
Tunnelling and mining operations are characterized by a
sequence of single operations,
generally performed using information technology systems.
All planning of drift layouts is
done using Computer Aided
Design (CAD) systems. Most
machines on site are controlled
electronically or by PC systems.
Quality assurance information
such as scans of the tunnel
profile, and many log files,
are stored by the machines in
different formats.
All of these single steps are
carried out by different machines
and different computer systems.
At this moment, there is no easy
way to make all these systems
talk with each other, or with
central computer systems, to
forward information required for
the subsequent steps.

Data Exchange
In an ideal situation, all computer systems and machines in the entire chain
of mining operations should be able to
talk to each other. In fact, the planning
is done a long time before the first
26

machine starts working, and this might

have been done on a CAD system
not able to communicate with the
particular drill rig used.
Consequently, all information from
the CAD system has to be newly
entered into the machines control
system. This is a laborious procedure,
and makes changes very difficult
to coordinate while the project is
running.
As an alternative to manual data
handling, automated import/export
routines may be used, if available.
Setting up these customized software
programs requires a high effort, which
often is limited to one single projects
lifetime. Consequently, this job is not
undertaken, leaving most of the logging information acquired during the
project unanalyzed. Such information
may have been advantageous to
enhance quality and efficiency of
work, if analyses had been possible in
real time during the project.
The GSM standard for cellular
phone systems has shown that standardization of corresponding data
exchange formats will have very positive effects on the productivity and
quality of operations, and on the use
of automated equipment in general.
Furthermore, the price of third party
products for data preparation and
analysis will be reduced. At the same
time, there will be more products
showing up on the market, which are
usable for more than one single project.

The IREDES Approach

IREDES, the International Rock
Excavation Data Exchange Standard,
is an initiative to standardize all data
exchange between rock excavation
machinery and central computer systems. These advantages are explained
in the following sections using blasthole drillrigs as an example for key
machines in underground mining
operations.
IREDES defines one common electronic language to be talked by the

machines and the central computer

systems. This language defines data
formats, such as to supply a drilling
rig with the planned drill patterns or
data formats that the drillrig uses, and
for production performance logs, production quality logs or tunnel scans.
Consequently, a CAD system, or
the underlying database, in the future
will need just one single export routine to supply all IREDES conformant
drillrigs, regardless of type or manufacture, with drill patterns using an
identical format.
When a drill pattern has been
drilled and blasted, an additional
tunnel profile scan might be available
too. If this scan was made using
IREDES compatible devices, the planning engineer is able to see the result
directly in his computer. He is enabled
to adjust the planning for future drill
patterns and the charging of explosives during the ongoing project. This
will enhance accuracy to reduce
overburden, and will consequently
reduce costs.

Tunnelling Applications
Once the IREDES standard is completely established, the working
sequence in a tunnelling project using
the drill and blast method may be
supported as follows.
The planning engineer uses his
CAD system to plan the tunnel. The
result is a tunnel line, together with
the corresponding profile information.
IREDES conformant information may
be used to specify the tunnel line.
The IREDES conformant tunnel
line is taken over by the software used
for drill pattern planning. As a result,
the drill pattern is available in an
IREDES conformant format as a
Planning Data Set.
The drilling rig regardless of its
manufacture receives the IREDES
Planning Data Set to set up the drill
pattern for automatic drilling.
During drilling operation, a number
of IREDES conformant data sets may
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TALKING TECHNICALLY

be created by the machine, as for

example, Production Performance
Log, Production Quality Log, and
Measurement
While
Drilling
Information (MWD).
After the pattern is drilled, the
MWD information may be used by the
charging equipment to adjust charging
of explosives according to the rock
conditions discovered while drilling.
The charging machine generates an
IREDES Production Quality Report
covering each single hole of the
charge operation.
After blasting and loading, a tunnel
scan may be performed, generating an
IREDES conformant tunnel scan.
The tunnel scan, together with the
MWD information and the charge
report, is taken over by analyzing software to propose and/or to perform
adjustments for drilling the next
pattern.
The example shows how completely different types of equipment and
software systems may work together,
and interact in an environment using
IREDES standardized interfaces. If all
systems involved do support the
IREDES standard, no further customized programming will be
required. This enables even smaller
companies and smaller work sites to
effectively perform high precision
mining projects at a reasonable cost
level, without customized software
development.
At the same time, all quality assurance relevant logging information is
generated automatically. For analysis,
all that is needed are software systems
enabled to read the standardized
IREDES logging format.

The IREDES Architecture

The IREDES standard covers both
traditional, file based data exchange
using floppy disks or memory modules as carrier media, and on-line
networking data exchange using any
kind of wire-based or wireless communication system.
In both cases, IREDES uses identical procedures, so the application
programs do not need to know how
the information is transferred. Consequently, no additional application
FACE DRILLING

IREDES supported
Drill and Blast
Cycles.

programming effort is required to

exchange, say, drill patterns via
network or phone modem instead of
using a memory card.
IREDES is based on current technology and uses the Extensible
Markup Language (XML), which
originally was designed to specify the
database generated content of Internet
pages, for on-line shops or similar
websites. Consequently, all major
databases today provide standard
XML import and export features. This
drastically simplifies the use of the
IREDES standard within database
environments. Furthermore, XML
import/export routines are, or will
become, available for all major
standard software.
In other industries, XML is also
becoming the preferred solution for data
exchange standardization activities.
The IREDES standard is set up in
different levels. The Application
Profile covers all general information
for one application purpose, such as
Planning Data or Production
Quality Log, which is commonly
used for all types of equipment.
The equipment specific information
is covered by the corresponding
Equipment Profile, which defines
detailed equipment specific information to be used within those application profiles applicable to the specific
equipment type. The first Equipment
Profiles available will cover drillrigs
and loaders.
Additional information may be
exchanged using optional information
subsets within each equipment profile.

However, standard compliant systems

may not require this information for
essential operation of the equipment.
This information might enhance accuracy or performance in accordance to
additional machine specific, and not
standardized, features.

Openness and Flexibility

The IREDES standard will be entirely
open and published in the released
versions. It will be extended to further
equipment types and application profiles as demanded by the users.
Due to the standards open architecture consisting of application and
equipment profiles, more than just
rock excavation equipment may be
integrated. It might be applicable for
charging equipment, rock reinforcement machines or ventilation equipment, without touching the existing
parts of the standard.
More than 20 leading mining and
construction companies are now
part of the IREDES initiative. Atlas
Copco has intensified development
to make its drillrigs IREDES compatible, and by end of 2004 all new
generation drillrigs will have
IREDES implemented. This will also
apply to the PCV software for planning and evaluation, such as ROC
Manager, Tunnel Manager, and ORE
Manager.

by Jorgen Appelgren
Part of this article is published by
courtesy of the IREDES Initiative.
27

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TALKING TECHNICALLY

Using Rocket Boomers to

Install Rockbolts
Adaptability for
Drilling and
Installation
When a contractor undertakes an
underground drill/blast excavation project, it is of utmost
importance to have the most
suitable equipment available,
both for blasthole drilling, and for
rockbolt drilling and installation.
For most situations, the Atlas
Copco Rocket Boomer is the best
possible unit to choose. This is
true, not only for its drilling
capacity, but also for its adaptability to semi-mechanized installation of some of the most
frequently used rockbolt systems, such as Swellex rockbolts
and MAI Self Drilling Anchors
(SDA). This affords the contractor
the option of using a single drillrig to cover all face drilling and
rockbolt installation operations.
On some contracts, this can
make the difference between
profit and loss. On bids, it can
provide the margin for the contractor that swings the award.

Swellex Rockbolts
Regardless of manufacturing origin,
installation of rockbolts of lengths of 4
m and upwards is normally a heavy
and troublesome operation. The
Swellex Mn24 rockbolt is no exception. However, by adding a few
optional items, a standard Atlas Copco
Rocket Boomer can be modified to
take care of most of this work. It will
insert the Swellex Mn24 into the hole,
fully inflate it to optimal capacity, and
even test it! Not only is it quick and
easy, but also safer than the traditional
manual method.
Top of the list of optional components is a service platform to assist
with the high level holes. An onboard
Swellex hydraulic pump is advisable,
and, for manual insertion, a Swellex
28

Radial bolting

Spiling and fore poling

Face stabilization
L2 C
L2 C

Atlas Copco Rocket Boomer, with its very capable BUT booms, is suitable for all kinds of rock
reinforcement.

handle with Swellex chuck, or, for

mechanized insertion, the new Swellex
chuck mounted on the COP hammer.
For mechanized handling of the
drill steel, a Rod Adding System
(RAS) can be mounted on the feed.
For semi-mechanized installation,
the following cycle of operations can
be used: select a drill steel length that
is slightly longer than the length of the
bolt to be installed; drill the bolt hole
at the chosen spot, and to the full
length; keep the feed at the drill hole,
and recover the drill steel by the RAS
grippers; attach the Swellex chuck to
the COP hammer; manually locate the
Swellex bolt with faceplate in the drill
The new Atlas Copco Swellex Mn24C features
improved work absorption capacity by way of
elongation and load taking.

steel support at the top; insert the

Swellex bolt into its final position in
the drill hole, using the feed-force
from the hammer; and inflate the
Swellex bolt using the on-board
hydraulic Swellex pump. All done,
and ready for the next bolt!

Connectable Swellex
When there is a need for very long
bolts to be installed in a narrow drift,
tunnel or cavern, the solution can be
the Swellex Mn24C connectable rock
bolt. This system comprises three different types of bolt section that can be
combined to practically any required
length. Each of these three sections is
characterized by its function. The first
section is sealed at its top end and
threaded at its bottom end. The middle
sections are threaded at both ends, and
the bottom section is threaded at one
end and designed to fit into the
Swellex chuck at the other. The sections are threaded together to form a
tight connection.
Installing Swellex Mn24C utilizes
the same optional components as for
the installation of long Swellex bolts,
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TALKING TECHNICALLY

Atlas Copco SDA System

BSH 110-SDA

Know-how
& Support

Boomer

om

cket

er

L2

SDA-range

Bo

Ro

SDA Shank Adapter

SDA Shank Connector

Atlas Copco SDA system is built around the Boomer, with add-on standard options, and backed up by Atlas
Copco worldwide presence, know how and support.

with the addition of either the BSH

110 Swellex version, or by using a
Swellex retainer to keep the connectable Swellex in place when tying
in Swellex sections. The RAS system
can greatly assist handling of the
Swellex Mn24C sections, using its
two gripper arms attached to the BMH
feed, which are remotely controlled by
the Boomer operator.
The bolt hole is drilled to full depth
using extension drill rods. Recommended drill hole diameter is
45-48 mm, with maximum 51 mm,
using R28 drifter rods with a coupling
diameter of 44 mm.
The installation sequence is as follows: drill the bolt hole a little bit
longer than the full bolt length; recover

the drill string, and remove it from the

feed; place the top-section of the
Swellex Mn24C into the drill steel
support, and feed the bolt section into
the drill hole, either manually, or using
the COP rock drill; grip the bolt with
the BSH 110, or the retainer; thread in
the required number of middle sections using the feed and the COP rock
drill; grip the bottom of the string with
the BSH 110, and attach the bottom
end section of the connectable Swellex,
with faceplate; feed it into place using
the rock drill and Swellex chuck; connect the Swellex pump, and inflate the
bolt. It will take a few seconds to fully
expand the complete bolt. When the
pump stops, the bolt is ready to take
its full 24 t load.

Composition of the Atlas Copco Self Drilling Anchor (SDA).

FACE DRILLING

In 2002, Atlas Copco incorporated the

MAI series of rock bolts into its product range. Products like MAI Self
Drilling Anchors (SDA) can be used
in ground formations that are so soft,
fractured, or weak that a normal drill
hole will collapse before a standard
rock bolt can be inserted.
The SDA system comprises standard items like the sacrificial bit, a
variety of bolt sections, couplings,
face-plate and spherical nut. Atlas
Copco has developed some components and functions for the Rocket
Boomer to make it the perfect tool for
installing SDA.
The standard feed on the Boomer
should be equipped with the BSH 110SDA drill steel support. This is used to
guide the bolt when drilling, and when
extending the SDA bolt sections. The
BSH 110-SDA is designed to leave a
minimum of the bolt protruding from
the rock face, thus utilizing the full
length of the installed bolts. The BSH
110-SDA has remote-controlled functions for guiding, gripping and
drilling, giving the operator full control of the bolting sequence from the
drilling position. The BSH 110-SDA
is fully compatible with any BMH
6000 feed.
For those worksites where a lot of
SDA drilling will be done, the COP
1238 or COP 1838 rock drills can be
fitted with a special SDA shank
adapter and a conversion kit. The SDA
shank adapter has a female end to
eliminate the need for a loose coupling
sleeve, saving time when unthreading
the bolt. This makes handling easier
when extending the SDA bolts, boosting productivity and improving safety.
At work sites where SDAs are not in
daily use, a suitable solution is to use
a shank connector to simplify the
handling of SDAs on a standard Boomer.
The shank connector is added to the
shank adapter on the hammer, and
should be chosen to match the thread
that is used on the SDA. Most frequently used threads are R32 and R38. Once
the SDA activity is finished, the shank
connector is removed and normal
drilling can resume. The shank connector is available in the most-used thread
29

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TALKING TECHNICALLY

Atlas Copco bolt support BSH 110-SDA is a

modification of the existing BSH 110.

types and diameters, such as R32/R32,

R32/R38,
R35/R32,
R35/R38,
R38/R32, R38/R38, and a few others.
MAI M400NT grout pump.

Installing Self Drilling

Anchors

3) Start drilling, and adjust the

pressure to match the chosen bolt type
and to the prevailing ground conditions. Normally, the percussion pressure for SDA drilling is less than half,
sometimes only one third, of the
hydraulic pressure set for blast hole
drilling. The SDA shank adapter
makes it possible to drill the bolt close
to the tunnel wall.
4) Grip the bolt with the BSH, and
hold it in position while adding another
MAI bolt section, prepared with a suitable anchor coupling.
5) Once the MAI bolt section is connected, open the BSH and continue
drilling.
When the last section of the MAI
bolt is being drilled, the BSH 110-SDA

Most current rockbolt installation

methods are manual. However, when
the operation is assisted by a Rocket
Boomer, productivity and safety are
greatly improved. Using the optional
equipment available for the standard
Boomer, a typical SDA bolting semimechanized sequence will be as follows.
1) Modify the rock drill by attaching a suitable SDA shank adapter and
a SDA COP kit that match the thread
on the MAI SDA bolt.
2) Place the MAI bolt section on the
feed with the selected MAI bit, and
thread the bolt into the shank-adapter
female end. The BSH 110-SDA should
be in position to guide the bolt.

Atlas Copco semi-mechanized MAI bolt installation from a Rocket Boomer.

New AC

New AC

Guiding

Gripping

BSH 110-SDA

Extending

Drill through

New AC
New MAI

5
New MAI

New AC

Tensioning
Grouting

30

should be fully opened, to allow the

shank adapter to drill the MAI bolt
deep enough to leave 80-100 mm of
the bolt protruding.

Grouting MAI Rockbolts

The installation sequences described
above use water flushing for drilling.
However, MAI bolt installation can
also be undertaken with continuous
grouting, using a grout pump and
swivel. In radial bolting, continuous
grouting is not recommended, because
large amounts of grout will drop out of
the drill hole onto the feed and boom.
The commonly used method for
MAI bolts is post grouting. This is
carried out manually from the Boomer
basket, or any other service platform,
by connecting a grouting unit to the
protruding end of the MAI bolt.
Suitable and flexible grouting units
are the MAI M400NT grout pump, and
Atlas Copco Craelius UNIGROUT E
22. The grout is pumped into the hollow
MAI bolt, and is distributed through the
MAI drill bit into the drilled hole, cavities and cracks along the bolt. This
completely fills the hole, forming a
strong adhesion between the MAI bolt,
the cured grout, and the surrounding
ground formation. Once the grout has
cured for 8-12 h, the MAI bolt can be
post-tensioned to the required torque.

by Olle Karlsson
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PYRENEES, SPAIN

Upgrading Vielha Road Tunnel

in the Pyrenees
Better Late than Never
The existing 5.24 km-long Vielha road
tunnel is situated on the Spanish side
of the Pyrenees on the N230 route to
Lleida. On the French side, the tunnel
provides access to the N125 route
towards Toulouse. The tunnel was
first suggested in 1830, but it was not
until nearly a century later that construction began. It then took 15 years
to complete, having been delayed by
the Spanish civil war until 1941. The
opening was delayed again by WW2
until May, 1948, but Vielha was still
one of the first road tunnels in Spain,
and is still the second longest after
Somport.
New EU regulations have prompted
the installation of a rescue tunnel as
a second egress, and the solution at
Vielha has been to drive a new road
tunnel, and convert the existing
tunnel to serve as an emergency exit
and for trucks carrying hazardous
cargo. Contractor UTE Tnel de
Vielha is using four Atlas Copco
Rocket Boomer drillrigs, two WL3 Cs
to drive from each end, and two
L2 Cs to excavate crosspassages.

Project Description
The new 5.23 km-long Vielha tunnel,
named Juan Carlos I, is located in Vall
dArn in Lrida province of Catalonia. It
will be bi-directional, accommodating
three 3.5 m-wide lanes, two shoulders (0.5
and 1 m) and two 1 m-wide pavements.
The central lane will be reversible, and two
of the three lanes will generally be used for
north-south traffic. The headroom is 5.29 m
with a maximum gradient of 4.57%.
Once the new tunnel is commissioned,
the old tunnel will be converted to its new
role.
The project designer is Idom, and technical assistance for work control and construction supervision is being carried out
by consultants Sener.
Construction was awarded in January,
2002 to UTE Tnel de Vielha, a temporary
joint venture headed by OHL (50%), with
FACE DRILLING

Copcisa (25%) and Comsa (25%) as partners. The contract value is 128 million,
and the duration 39 months, with completion scheduled for June, 2005. It includes
all civil engineering of the new tunnel and
its accesses, installations and equipment,
and the ventilation and central control
buildings.
Within the tunnel there will be 25 safety
niches on one side, and 25 fire niches on the
opposite side, each situated 200 m apart.
Twelve 12 m-long shelters, spaced at every
400 m, and connecting with cross passages
leading to the old tunnel, will allow for
evacuation in the event of an incident. Eight
laybys at 550 m intervals, four on each side,
will facilitate emergency stopping.
The tunnel will be equipped with semitransverse reversible ventilation. In case of
accident, the system will confine a fire and
extract smoke through a false ceiling. This
ventilation will be able to expel the smoke
generated by a 30 MW fire with a volume
of 150 m3/sec on a stretch of 700 m.
House-sized ventilation stations will be
located at both ends.

Moving the Rocket Boomer WL3 C to

the face at Vielha.

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PYRENEES, SPAIN

Geology

View of the equipment parking area at

the Vielha south portal.

Long view to the face at Vielha.

32

Other safety equipment includes 67

CCTV cameras, 12 variable message
panels, traffic lights, barriers to prevent
cars from entering the tunnel, SOS posts, a
network of telephones, radio communications and loudspeakers, a fire detection
system, water supply to fire hydrants at
the roadside and sprayers in the ceiling,
and automatic incident detection (AID).
The technical management of all these
systems will be handled in a new
control centre located 400 m from the
south portal.
The road surfacing will be vibrated concrete on thin concrete. It is fireproof, thus
avoiding fire propagation peculiar to
asphalt mixtures that contain bitumen.
Under the roadway, there will be a 3 m x
2.25 m service tunnel for the electric
wiring and water duct that will feed the
hydrants of the anti-fire niches.

From south to north, towards Vielha, the

massif is comprised of moraines for
210 m, followed by 420 m of fractured
granite, and 2,100 m of massive granite.
Then the Civis formation appears in contact with the granite. This is a highly metamorphic rock of the Devonian period,
consisting mostly of slates, and will be the
trickiest tunnelling zone. After that, there
is a 1,600 m portion with quartzites, mixed
with shales in the next 250 m. The alignment crosses 420 m of Carboniferous shale
and blackish Silurian shale towards the
north portal.
The excavated cross section is 127 sq m,
and the lined section will be 95 sq m. The
south portal lies at 1,595 m and the north
entrance at 1,396 m, resulting in a gradient
of 4.57%.
Weather conditions can be extreme, as
was the case in late 2002, with temperatures below 20C. Work takes place all
year round, in three shifts/day from
Monday 8 am to Saturday 2 pm. Each team
is composed of a foreman, six workers, a
mechanic and an electrician.

Computerized Drillrigs
The JV acquired four Atlas Copco drillrigs:
two Rocket Boomer WL3 C models for the
main tunnel, and two Rocket Boomer L2 C
models to excavate the shelters and cross
passages to the existing tunnel.
The Rocket Boomer WL3 C is a fully
computerized drilling jumbo with three
booms and basket, capable of handling sections up to 155 sq m. The Rocket Boomer
L2 C is a twin boom drillrig for sections up
to 90 sq m. Both are equipped with COP
1838 rock drills and Secoroc drill bits.
These machines feature RCS, or rig
control system, an intelligent software that
can be adapted to the number of booms,
the level of automation and the introduction of new functions without need to
install an expensive and powerful computer
in the smaller and less complex rigs. This
system is reliable, flexible and easily
expandable, allowing new units to be
added anywhere along the data bus, without adding another cable.
To improve the reliability of the system
for a multi-boom rig operating in the full
automation mode, two-level circuit communication has been implemented. The
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PYRENEES, SPAIN

upper level talks to the whole rig, and the

identical lower circuit talks to each boom
circuit. All signalling on angles in the
boom joints is restricted to the boom circuit, while the upper level system advises
only on the basic position of each boom.
The advantage of this setup is that a
lower level circuit fault on one boom
caused, perhaps, by falling rock or pinching against the sidewall, will not hamper
the operation of the other booms. The software is split into a number of blocks, and
individual blocks can be added, deleted or
modified. Auto-collaring and anti-jamming
functions are incorporated into the system,
and the combination of these, and
improved regulation of the double dampened COP 1838 rock drills, produces
favourable drill steel costs.
The operator can control the whole rig
from one panel, and he can communicate
with any of the booms. This means that
only one operator is needed for two
booms, or all three booms if it is a threeboom rig. This also applies to short holes
because the boom movements and feed
positioning are carried out without the
assistance of the operator. Jamming of
the drill steel no longer occurs, saving time
and giving straighter holes.
Another important feature of RCS rigs
is the built-in diagnostic procedure for the
electronic system, making it easy to find
and repair faults. Also, because electronic
components are common and interchangeable, fewer spares are required at site. The
Atlas Copco maintenance contract at
Vielha makes provision for a mechanic on
secondment at the site, and a spares container at each portal.

was introduced for the main tunnel and a

Rocket Boomer L2 C for the ancillary work.
Since the Rocket Boomer WL3 C commenced in August, 2003, its average
progress has been 7 m/day, 40 m/week and
175 m/month. By mid-November, 2003, the
south drive had reached the 900 m mark
three weeks ahead of schedule. A full excavation cycle at the main face takes 14 hours.
The drill pattern involves 150 holes
across the 127 sq m section. These are
5 m-long and 51 mm-diameter, with four
102 mm cut holes. The explosives are
Goma-2, in 26 mm and 32 mm cartridges
supplied by Unin Espaola de Explosivos.
Support in the granitic zone is by
application of 3 cm of fibre-reinforced
shotcrete, followed by a second layer of
identical thickness without fibres, and
installation of 13 bolts/m of Atlas Copco
Swellex Mn 12 rockbolts using the drillrig
platform.

Rocket Boomer WL3 C drilling the face

at Vielha.

Rocket Boomer L2 C drilling out the top

heading.

South Drive
At the south portal, on the Vilaller side,
construction started with a canopy of spiles
in the first 210 m of moraine. The 15 mlong umbrella vaults were composed of 65
steel pipes, 89 cm in diameter, beneath
which a 12 m-deep top heading was excavated. The next canopy was then installed
with a 3 m overlap and the process repeated throughout the soft ground. HEB 180
steel arches were erected, and sprayed with
two layers of shotcrete, with and without
fibres.
When the granite was reached, a ramp
was developed downwards to open the full
section, and the Rocket Boomer WL3 C
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PYRENEES, SPAIN

which the excavation was reduced to top

heading only. Here, the second Rocket
Boomer WL3 C drills 98 holes in the
upper part of the face and 26 mm cartridges are used for the blasts, with
HEB 180 and TH 21 steel beams installed
for support. The fault itself was crossed
by installing four sections of umbrella
vaults.
Some 35-40 lit/sec of incoming water is
collected in a drain and gravitates towards
the exit, where it is treated in two 12 mdiameter tanks in which pH is corrected
and the particles settle out.

Mucking-out

Rocket Boomer L2 C drilling for

Swellex bolts.

There is some water ingress, which collects at the face and requires pumping
round the clock.

North Drive
Progress at the north drive, on the Vielha
side, had reached 1,700 m by midNovember, 2003. Some 60 m had been
excavated using the second Rocket Boomer
L2 C on cross passage number 12, 54 m on
number 11, and 2 m on number 10.
The main tunnel excavation began with
the widening to 127 sq m of a 1,350 mlong, 60 sq m ventilation tunnel that connected with the existing Vielha tunnel.
Support is made up of a 5 cm fibrereinforced shotcrete layer, Swellex Mn
rockbolts at one unit per sq m, wire mesh,
more bolts at five units per lineal m, and
6 cm of shotcrete without fibres.
There is a fault approximately 400 m
inbye of the widened ventilation tunnel, at

The total tunnel system, including the

cross passages between the new tunnel and
the existing one, will generate 671,337 cu m
of spoil. This is being transported to
dumps at the north portal and 5 km away
from the south portal. The granite is
processed in a crushing plant to produce
aggregates. There is one concrete plant at
each portal.
The machinery used for the muckingout at the south drive include five 25 t
dumpers Volvo A25 and a loader. A
second loader and two 25 t dumpers are
used at the north drive.
There is still one year of tunnelling
required to breakthrough, which should be
accomplished by end-2004.

Acknowledgements
Atlas Copco is grateful to UTE Tnel
de Vielha, and in particular to project
administrator Pedro Garca Borjabad and
project manager ngel Martn Aragn, for
their assistance with the site visit on which
this article is based.

Table 1: Four types of ground support have been designed to suit the various ground
conditions and are shown in the table.
Support
Type
1A
1B
2
3A
3B
4

34

Shotcrete
Sealing
Layer

Shotcrete
2nd Layer

Shotcrete
3rd Layer

4 m long
Swellex bolts

Arches/
lattice
Girders

Micropiles

3 cm
3 cm
3 cm
3 cm
3 cm
3 cm

3 cm
7 cm
6 cm
11 cm
9 cm
10 cm

6 cm
3 cm
9 cm
10 cm

1 per 2 sq m
1 per 2 sq m
1 per 1.5 sq m
1 per 1.5 sq m
1 per 1.5 sq m

TH 21
HEB 180
HEB 180

150 mmdiameter,
12 m-long

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ALPTRANSIT, SWITZERLAND

Staying Ahead of Schedule at

Ltschberg
Sophistication at
Mitholz
The logistics of excavating 24 km of
tunnels to build 16.2 linear km of the
Ltschberg base tunnel in the hard
limestone of the Swiss Alps were
bound to generate a few new ideas.
Given the job, the Satco joint venture, comprising some of the worlds
most experienced drill/blast contractors, came up with a complete purpose-designed excavation system.
Spearheaded by some of the most
sophisticated drillrigs available, the
spoil clearance arrangements are
the most capital intensive ever to
be installed into a tunnel project.
Justification of this expenditure
places an enormous burden on the
prime face equipment supplier, both
to come up with the goods and to
maintain their reliability. Rock had to
be excavated on a continuous basis
to keep the system fed, and speed
and efficiency were key elements of
success. Satco chose Atlas Copco
Rocket Boomer XL3 C drillrigs with
ABC Regular semi-automatic boom
control for production drilling, with
Rocket Boomer L2 C twin-boom
machines for the smaller-section
work. The rigs were equipped with
Secoroc rock drilling tools, and
Swellex rockbolts were used for
immediate support. This combination
of job-matched Atlas Copco equipment, together with first-class on-site
maintenance support, has given Satco
a vital edge. As a result, their flagship
project is being brought in more than
a half year ahead of schedule.

Introduction
The Alps of Switzerland are a formidable
geographical barrier between the southern
and northern trading states of the European
Union. The roads and railways are concentrated into the narrow alpine valleys and
passes, and these have become corridors
along which increasing amounts of goods
are carried. The existing infrastructure has
become grossly overloaded with through
traffic, and worries about the impact of
FACE DRILLING

this situation have been voiced for many

years.
When the people voted in a referendum
to keep Switzerland out of the EU, it gave
fresh impetus to the idea of base tunnels
that would ferry freight trains through the
country on short, fast routes, relieving the
roads and improving the environment.
The Alptransit scheme was promoted on
this pretext, as the subject of bi-lateral
agreements between Switzerland and the
EU. The Swiss will invest in the infrastructure, and the EU will pay the transit fees.
The Gotthard and Ltschberg base tunnels
are the major cost and time elements in the
Alptransit scheme, and are also on the critical path.

One of three Atlas Copco Rocket

Boomer XL3 C drillrigs delivered to
Mitholz.

Secoroc 48 mm button bit for Boomer

XL3 C at Mitholz.

Ltschberg Alignment
The Ltschberg route, which is being
developed primarily as a heavy goods conduit, is in the most advanced stage of construction, and will be ready for 2007.
The route runs through the Alps in
the west of Switzerland, building on the
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ALPTRANSIT, SWITZERLAND

Section of Ltschberg tunnel from

Frutigen to Raron.

infrastructure of the existing Ltschberg

line, and incorporating the modernized
Simplon base tunnel. The missing link is
the 34.6 km-long Ltschberg base tunnel,
where excavation is being tackled on a
number of fronts. BLS AlpTransit AG
holds a commission from the Swiss
Federal authorities to implement the design
and construction of the tunnel, using funds
derived mainly from tax revenue.
The overall plan caters for two separate
single-track tubes at 35 m separation.
However, in the first phase of construction,
only one of these tubes has been excavated
between the north portals at Frutigen and the
projected service station at Mitholz. On this
section, the 7.5 km-long Kandertal exploration tunnel, driven by a 5 m-diameter
Map of Ltschberg tunnel alignment.

hardrock TBM in 1994, runs parallel with

the main tunnel, and will perform the function of second egress for rescue and emergency purposes. To the south of Mitholz, as
far as the southern portal in Raron, two tubes
are being driven, but, between Mitholz and
Ferden, only one of them is being lined and
equipped for rail use for the time being.
Transverse connections are being made
between the twin tunnels at 333 m intervals
to facilitate safe emergency evacuation.

Mitholz Attack
From the base of the Mitholz access adit,
the main Ltschberg running tunnels have
been driven by Satco, a joint venture led
by Strabag with Vinci, Skanska, Rothpletz
& Lienhard, and Walo Bertschinger.
Two drill/blast faces have been driven
some 8.7 km southwards to connect with
TBM faces coming north from Ferden, and
the east tube has advanced 7.5 km to break
through at the north portal.
The 1.5 km-long, 67 sq m Mitholz adit,
from which these three drives are accessed,
is located some 8 km from the north end of
the Ltschberg base tunnel alignment. Its
entrance is across a bridge built over the
river that runs through the worksite.
At the bottom of the 12% adit, a
220 sq m cross-passage was mined to
house a permanent electrical substation for
the operating railway. During the construction phase this is serving as an aggregate
stocking facility.
An old quarry area was levelled to provide stocking room for rock spoil produced
from the tunnel, and an overland conveyor
system installed from the adit entrance.

Main Face Development

Tunnels were developed from the base of
the adit in both directions at cross-sections
of 120 sq m, with a maximum of 220 sq m
at junctions where permanent services will
be installed.
36

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ALPTRANSIT, SWITZERLAND

The three main faces were advanced

using sophisticated three-boom and basket
Atlas Copco Rocket Boomer XL3 C drillrigs. These were equipped with ABC
Regular semi-automatic boom control with
two control systems, and using two operators working from separate panels. Drillplan
data was transferred from the planning
office to the machines on PC cards.
The big Rocket Boomer XL3 Cs were
backed up by a pair of twin-boom Atlas
Copco L2 C drillrigs, which handled backwork such as bolting, cross passage development, and extraneous excavation.
Standard Swellex rockbolts, in 3 m and
4 m lengths, were installed as immediate
support, normally at 1.5 m spacing in the
roof and shoulders of each drive. All of the
ancillary face equipment such as transformers, ventilation extensions, and cable
reels were carried on backup platforms
suspended on rails slung from the roof.
This arrangement afforded maximum
manoeuvring room for the large numbers
of mobile equipment in operation.
Each full, 8 m-wide x 8.5 m-high, face
was drilled out by a Rocket Boomer
XL3 C to 4.5 m depth using Secoroc
model37 48 mm, 9-button ballistic bits
with R35 thread.
Between 105 and 120 holes were
required, together with two 102 mm breaker holes in the centre. Average drilling rate
was 3 m/min, and face and rockbolt
drilling took around 3 hours. The rock
comprised good, hard limestone, which
was pregraded K1, K2 or K3 by the
clients geologist. The various grades were
routed through the crushing and screening
system, to facilitate reuse as aggregate.
In the north, probeholes were maintained 40 m ahead of the face, drilled in
the crown by one of the Rocket Boomer
XL3 Cs equipped with a RAS rod adding
system. Detection of methane would trigger a warning system on the drillrigs, and
the monitoring system on the suspended
backup would switch off HT electrics if a
dangerous concentration was encountered.

Excavation and Mucking

All blasting at Mitholz utilized site sensitised emulsion (SSE) explosives supplied by
Dyno Nobel Sweden and charged using two
large-capacity Dyno trucks, each equipped
with two charging systems. Some 2 t of the
three-component mix was used each workFACE DRILLING

A mountain of Swellex rockbolts beneath the Mitholz

peak.

ing day. The inert bulk component accounts

for 99% by weight and volume, so the secondary components can be introduced in the
hole using a static mixer. Hence, the mixture
does not become explosive until it is safely
in the hole, avoiding most of the problems
associated with storage, transportation and
charging of live explosives.
The profile holes were charged at 50%
density to control overbreak. Force ventilation for the main faces was provided
through 2.2 m-diameter flexible ducts for
the duration of drilling, support and loading
operations. The airflow was reversed during
blasting, aided by a secondary force fan
mounted on the suspended backup, which
provided flushing air through a 1.7 m duct.
The blasted face was safened using an
excavator-mounted rock scaler. A 5 cu m
LHD equipped with side-tipping bucket
carried the spoil back to a 1,000 t/h mobile
crusher located some 50-100 m behind
each face. From here, the crushed rock was
delivered by a 330 m overlap stage conveyor to a 300 t/h trunk conveying system,
and thence to a handling plant operated by
a subcontractor close to the adit bottom.
Each round yielded some 700 t, with
bunkering available for 1.5 rounds from the
south faces and one round from the north
face. At each handling plant the rock was
further crushed to 200 mm, with oversize
scalped by a grizzly. Vertical pocket elevators carried the spoil 20 m up to the adit
conveyor loading points, from where two
400 t/h tubed belt systems took it to the
surface for transport to the nominated
stockpiles. A fleet of five articulated dump
trucks was kept permanently available for
use in case of conveyor breakdown.
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ALPTRANSIT, SWITZERLAND

Lining formworks in the west tube.

Support and Lining

Prior to rockbolting, the roof and sides
were shotcreted, using one of four available mobile concrete spraying systems.
Compressed air for shotcreting was supplied by Atlas Copco stationary compressors. Some 20-30 Swellex rockbolts were
then installed, using a Rocket Boomer
XL3 C to drill the 38 mm holes. Rock
cover varies from 1,000 m to a maximum
of 2,000 m beneath the Mitholz peaks. In
squeezing ground, wire mesh and steel
fibre reinforced shotcrete were used.
Rockbursting was a hazard at the far south
end of the alignment, where crystalline
rock was encountered.
Permanent lining comprises a 250 mmthick cast in-situ concrete formed over a
drainage membrane, with the crown of the
tunnel positioned 7.2 m above the top of the
rail track. The main tunnels are being finished to a standard 62 sq m cross-section.
There is also a tunnel and shaft system to
facilitate permanent access to the electrical
substation, which is located between the
proposed running tunnel tracks. This system
was used for access to the visitor centre on
the upper level, for the duration of the project. Mobile equipment maintenance workshops were installed in one of the cross
passages between the main tunnels, and the
substation room was utilized for concrete
batching during construction. It is estimated
that some 250,000 t of cement passed
through the plant during construction.

Progress
The site worked flat out, on a 7 day/3 shift
operation, with four crews of 9 or 10 men
38

rotating on each face. Most of the workforce comprised experienced crews from
Austria and Sweden, so training was not a
problem. The drillrig operators were given
basic conversion training by Atlas Copco
Suisse on the Rocket Boomer XL3 Cs
before delivery, and then received around
three months on-the-job instruction by
experienced Atlas Copco site engineers.
The maintenance fitters were supported by
Atlas Copco until competent, and one of
their engineers, together with service containers, was located at site for the duration
of the contract.
Tunnelling progress was well ahead
of schedule when the south faces reached
the water-bearing karstic limestone, the
drillrigs having advanced 250-300 m/
month on each face, with a maximum
achieved of 338 m/month. Caverns with
high-pressure water were detected in the
karstic limestone, and a complex probe
drilling system using 250-300 m-long
cored holes was employed to investigate
ahead of the face. Average water inflows
of 100 lit/sec were experienced, with a
maximum pressure of 42 bar. Hydraulic
testing and ground probing radar were also
used.
In the final kilometre of the south drive,
the faces entered granite, where the Rocket
Boomer XL3 Cs rigs again recorded high
performances.
This remarkable progress enabled Satco
to reach the contract boundary ahead of
time. As a result, they were awarded the
option of completing a further bonus kilometre towards Ferden, taking their overall
total to more than 26 km.
Tunnelling at the north face was completed in May 2003, some 8 months ahead
of programme. Accordingly, Satco was
awarded a further contract to mine an
800 m-long parallel link close to the
Frutigen portal.
By end-January, 2004 Satco had
excavated almost 23 km of tunnel, with
the remainder expected to be completed
in August, 2004. Total volume of excavated rock is around 1.8 million cu m,
of which some 700,000 cu m will be
reused.

Acknowledgements
Atlas Copco is grateful to Satco project
manager Wolfgang Lehner for his assistance with this article.
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Sealing by Pregrouting at
Trollhattan
Making Safe and Dry
The Oslo-Gothenburg high speed railway is currently under construction
in sections for client Banverket, the
Swedish national railway authority,
with a view to completion by 2015.
When fully commissioned, the new
railway will reduce the journey time
between Oslo and Gothenburg from
the current 4 h to just 2.5 h.
Meantime, individual sections are
being opened as and when they
are completed. The 7 km-long
Trollhattan to Vanersborg section
skirts the southern end of Lake
Vanern, the largest lake in Sweden. A
long loop in the existing single track
is being bypassed by a new twintrack railway, which includes the
3.5 km-long Trollhattan tunnel. The
tunnel has to be dry, so is being pregrouted at the face using cement in
18 m-long holes drilled accurately
around its periphery by a fullycomputerized Atlas Copco Rocket
Boomer XL3 C drillrig.

New Section
The new twin-track section connects
into the existing single line at both ends,
but follows a straighter alignment, reducing the distance travelled. It is currently
under construction by contractor NCC
International.
The 108 sq m single-tube, twin-track
running tunnel is being excavated by
drill/blast on a north-south alignment in
granite gneiss, which is hard at the north
end and softens progressively towards the
south. Some faulting occurs along the
tunnel alignment, but generally the rock is
sparsely to moderately jointed.
A 2.2 km-long, 27 sq m rescue tunnel
will parallel the main tunnel over much of
its length, and this is being excavated
simultaneously by the same contractor.
The safety regulations require that no one
shall be more than 300 m from an exit into
the rescue tunnel, or into open air, when a
train has to be evacuated in the main
tunnel.
FACE DRILLING

Long Shifts
The site operates from 07.00 to 22.00,
during which time a single blasting cycle is
achieved at each working face. Two crews
work alternate weeks, changing over
halfway through the Wednesday shift. The
first crew works a 7.2 h shift on Wednesday,
and 14.4 h shifts on Thursday and Friday.
The weekend is free, and the crew resumes
with 14.4 h shifts on Monday and Tuesday,
and a 7.2 h shift on Wednesday. Once
relieved by the second crew, the first crew
takes the following week off.

Atlas Copco Rocket Boomer XL3 C at

the face in Trollhattan centre section.

Loading a rod into the RAS from the

Rocket Boomer XL3 C basket.

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GOTHENBURG, SWEDEN

Grouting
TO VANERSBORG AND OSLO

Before the running tunnel face can be

advanced, a circular pattern of 30 off
18 m-long holes must be drilled around the
full perimeter using the face drillrig. These
are pregrouted with cement to form a
watertight envelope ahead of the face,
within which three 5 m rounds can be
drilled and blasted.
The drilling and grouting exercise takes
a full working day to complete in the running tunnels. On the following day, six
control holes are drilled to test the effectiveness of the grouting, and these are
pumped up to 4-5 bar using water. Water
loss is then measured, and, if less than
0.2 lit/min/m/bar is lost for each 18 m
hole, the umbrella is certified as ready for
advance. If one hole fails, it is grouted and
another two holes are drilled and grouted,
and the tunnel carries on regardless.
Each grouted umbrella overlaps the previous one by 5 m as an extra insurance
against water seepage. Experience has
proved that it is better to pregrout rather
than postgrout, and there are a number of
notable and costly postgrouting failures on
the record.
At Trollhattan, there is an imposed water
ingress limit of 3.5-2.5 lit/min/100 m of
tunnel, required to satisfy the demands of
Banverket for its electric railway system.
Only one water pressure test can be
conducted on any particular hole. To
date, only 50% of grouted rings have
passed the water pressure test first time, so
some face advance is usually lost on a
second day while remedial measures are
undertaken.
Plan of the Trollhattan tunnel.

40

This regime originated at the recently

completed Sodra Lanken project in
Stockholm, to enable the crews to spend as
much time as possible at home, without
impacting upon progress. The crews, who
invariably live a long distance from site,
are happy with this compromise, but the
same cannot be said of the authorities, who
monitor it very closely for obvious reasons. However, it must be said that working conditions at Swedish tunnelling
projects are amongst the best in the world,
and job rotation during each shift keeps
tiredness at bay and helps avoid boredom.
There is also a major case to be made for
keeping crews together, especially in an
environment in which sophisticated mechanization is the norm.

Drilling and Blasting

All blasting is carried out using site sensitized emulsion, with dynamite primers and
Nonel detonators. A Dyno 2 t-capacity
mixer truck is used for the north faces,
operated by NCC under Dyno supervision.
The advantage with SSE is that the components are not themselves classified as
explosives, and, as such, can be stored and
transported under the less-onerous flammable materials rules. At the south face, a
mini SSE truck carrying a 1 t-capacity container docks with the drillrig, which is then
used as a charging platform.
The standard blasting pattern in the
running tunnel comprises 170 holes drilled
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GOTHENBURG, SWEDEN

to 5.2 m depth using Secoroc Magnum

SR35 drilling equipment. 48 mm ballistic
button bits are used with 5.5 m-long round
Magnum SR35 drifter rods. A smooth
blasting technique is applied, using two
rows with reduced charges. At the periphery, 80 gram pentyl cord is used, and in the
second row located 0.6 m inside the
periphery, 0.9 kg of emulsion is measured
into each hole.
The breaking face is formed by four
102 mm holes drilled using Magnum SR35
Dome reaming bits. Drilling and blasting
takes around 3 h, mucking around 7 h, and
scaling 3 h. Very little rock reinforcement
is necessary, with just the occasional rockbolt being installed.
Under normal circumstances, one complete cycle of drilling and blasting is
undertaken at each face on three or four
days of the week. Overbreak is measured
every metre on advance. There is a 50 cm
free zone around the perimeter of the
drive, and average overbreak is 4% outside
the theoretical tunnel line.
The Secoroc bits are reground every 10
holes, and have a life of 500-700 m. There
are two purpose-built workshop containers
at site housing regrinding facilities, which
include Grind Matic BQ2 semi-automatic
button bit grinders. A third container is
used for Boomer maintenance.

False Tunnel
Some 1.2 km from the south portal, the
crown of the running tunnel alignment is
revealed in the base of a valley known as
Bjornsravinen. Early in the project, NCC
obtained access at this point, diverted the
stream into a pipeline, and excavated the
base of the valley to tunnel invert level.
They then established temporary portals,
and drove the running tunnel at full section
for 250 m in each direction.
NCC Sweden, a regional company in
the same contracting group will construct a
short false tunnel across the valley to connect the two temporary portals, and the
area will then be backfilled and the stream
reinstated.
Early excavation of this section
removed a bottleneck on the critical path
of the project, and opened the way to constructing the reinforced concrete false
tunnel during the Spring and Summer
months, rather than under the much harsher
winter conditions.
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Section: 400/723

+73 m

South Section
Work from the south portal has progressed
past the 600 m point, leaving less than 400 m
to go to breakthrough into the completed
valley section. The first 20 m was pregrouted
with micro cement injected into 18 m-long
holes using a Craelius Unigrout system.
The tunnel is carried forward on full
face excavation using a refurbished and
upgraded Atlas Copco Robot Boomer
185 ES drillrig, which previously saw service at another Banverket site at Hallandsas.
The average depth of cover is 20 m, and
the alignment is mainly under forested
ground, except where it passes beneath a
corner of Bjorndalen, a small housing area
situated some 400 m from the south portal.
At the half dozen houses most affected,
vibration sensors were installed, and these
were linked to the Internet, from where
they could be monitored daily. The blasting

+73 m

Typical overbreak recorded in the main

tunnel.

Entrance to the rescue tunnel and

centre section faces.

41

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GOTHENBURG, SWEDEN

shotcrete over its entire length before handover in December, 2005.

NCC employs 35 people at Trollhattan to
cover the three sites in operation. In the
centre section, mucking is subcontracted. In
the north and south sections, NCC uses
Broyt X43 diesel-powered hydraulic loaders
which are not self-propelled, loading into
subcontractors 30 t-capacity semi trailers.

Rocket Boomer XL3 C

Side view of Rocket Boomer XL3 C.

sequence was adjusted to lower vibration,

as necessary.

North Section
The tunnel dips at 1% from the north
portal for 2.3 km to the valley position,
and then flattens out to 0.3% for the
remaining 1.2 km to the south portal.
The drive from the north portal, which
is being undertaken using an Atlas Copco
Rocket Boomer 353 ES drillrig, passes
within 100 m of a local hospital.
Fortunately, the areas of the hospital that
would be sensitive to blasting are 250 m
away, and are generally unaffected.
Nevertheless, blasting times are negotiated
with the hospital authorities, if need be.

Rescue Tunnel
At a point some 1.2 km from the north portal
a 370 m adit has been driven oversize down
to the main tunnel horizon, from which faces
are being driven in both directions in both
the running tunnel and the rescue tunnel. A
pair of Swedvent 1.2 m-diameter silenced
axial flow fans mounted high above the adit
entrance provides auxiliary ventilation for
the faces. The adit is paved with asphalt to
provide a safe, year-round surface for
mobile equipment and trucks.
An Atlas Copco Rocket Boomer XL3 C
is drilling the running tunnel faces, while a
rebuilt Boomer H175 is working in the
5 m-wide x 5.5 m-high rescue tunnels.
Rock produced from the tunnel is the
property of Banverket, and is used for ballasting tracks or sold into the aggregate
market. NCC conducts some crushing at
site on behalf of Banverket.
The completed tunnel will be lined with
50 mm depth of steel fibre reinforced
42

The new Rocket Boomer XL3 C working in

the centre section of the tunnel is a fullycomputerized face drilling jumbo, with automatic boom control (ABC), and handles all
face and grouthole drilling. It has been wellreceived by the operators, who found that it
took just two days to convert fully from their
previous Atlas Copco 353 ES.
This machine is equipped with a rod
adding system (RAS) on the two outer
booms, which are reloaded alternately by a
single operator using the rig basket. The
short movement of the rod adding system
speeds up the grouthole drilling process.
The rig computer tells the operator how
many rods are in each hole, and indicates
when the hole is complete.
The operators report that the rig
achieves 2.6-3 m/min/rockdrill, even with
all three machines in use.
In general, the Rocket Boomer XL3 C is
a three-boom and basket hydraulic tunnelling rig with high reaching Eagle console
for railway tunnels and underground caverns, suitable for cross sections up to
179 sq m. It is equipped with COP 1838
rock drills with double reflex dampening for
high speed drilling and excellent drill steel
economy. An integrated diagnostic system
can immediately identify faulty electronic
components. The ABC system assists the
operator to achieve accurate drill hole location and improve the quality of drilling by
optimizing the drilling pattern and reducing
overbreak. A full specification of this drillrig is available at facedrilling.com

Acknowledgements
Atlas Copco is grateful to NCC
International AB for facilitating the site
visit on which this article is based, and
particularly thanks Goran Manell, NCC
project manager at Trollhattan, for taking
the trouble to explain details of this
complex project.
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SPITSBERGEN, NORWAY

Tunnelling Beneath a Glacier

Record Performance
Spitsbergen, a Norwegian archipelago located in the Arctic ocean some
12 degrees south of the North Pole,
was first mapped officially by Dutch
sailor Willem Barents in the late
16th century. Russian geologist, VA
Rusanov, discovered extensive coal
deposits in 1912, which are currently
exploited under an international
treaty. Svea North mine, developed
in 1999, is located beneath a glacier,
over which owner SNSK has had to
haul its output along an ice road
to the port area. The solution was to
drive a tunnel beneath the glacier
and replace trucks with conveyor. In
this remote and harsh location, contractor Leonhard Nilsen & Sonner
(LNS) needed reliable equipment
with good manufacturer support.
They chose an Atlas Copco Rocket
Boomer L2 C drillrig, and not only
completed on time, but also broke a
few tunnelling records along the
way!

Impressive Output
Svea North is located some 40 km from
Spitsbergens main town of Longyearbyen,
and there is a fully-functioning mine
encampment at the site. There is no road,
and the only access is by boat in summer,
snowmobile in winter, or by the daily
flights into the airstrip.
Despite its remote location, Svea North
produced an output of nearly 2.7 million t
from its single longwall face in 2003.
Indeed, in October, 2003, the mine produced a creditable 460,000 t, taking it to
the number one position in Europe.
Average output per miner of 75 t/shift
makes it one of the most efficient underground coal mines in the world.
The seam averages 3.8 m thick, with
few geological faults, and good overall
conditions. It lies under 400 m of rock and
200 m of ice at its deepest, while at its
shallowest point, there is just 50 m of rock
between the coal seam and the glacier. The
estimated coal reserve is 40 million t, of
which SNSK expects to mine something
like 32 million t. It is a very marketable
product at 32 MJ/kg, with a low ash
FACE DRILLING

content of 5%, and a low sulphur content

at 0.6%.
Svea North is accessed by simply
driving into the drift in a conventional
four-wheel drive vehicle.

Svea North is accessed by sea during

the summer.

Charging the face from the rig basket.

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SPITSBERGEN, NORWAY

flooding for much of July and August,

2002.

Tunnel Drivage

Atlas Copco Rocket Boomer L2 C at the

face.

44

Since production commenced, a combination of on-off highway trucks and

ADTs has hauled the coal the 6 km or so
from the stockyard at the pit entrance to
the port area, making up to 50,000
journeys/year.
As the fjord freezes during winter, the
coal is kept in a 1.6 million t-capacity
stockpile beside the port until the ships can
again make their way to the dock.
Keeping an ice road open in such a
climate is not easy, with around NKr 5 million/year spent on grading alone, to maintain the required capacity of 16,000 t/day.
The wear and tear on trucks and loading
equipment added greatly to this bill,
making it imperative that an alternative
solution be found.
SNSK decided to replace the ice road
with a tunnel under the glacier. The 2.6%
dipping tunnel alignment lies beneath the
production seam, and it is designed to house
both a conveyor system, and a channel to
drain ground water percolating through the
mine from a lake beneath the glacier.
The mine has suffered problems with
excessive water, despite its powerful
installed pump station and lengthy
pipelines. Water ingress is greater in
summer because of the thaw, evidenced by
the longwall being put out of action by

LNS was awarded the contract for the

5.6 km-long x 38 sq m tunnel, and started
its development in November, 2002, using
a new Atlas Copco Rocket Boomer L2 C
drillrig. Planned advance of 100 m/week
was easily exceeded, with a world
drill/blast record of 150 m being achieved
in the best week.
This rate of advance is normally
achieved using TBMs, and is extremely
significant for a drill and blast operation
because of the dramatic difference in capital employed.
Rock conditions are relatively soft,
competent and not generally abrasive,
although there is some quartzite intrusion.
LNS used 48 mm bits with three holes in
front and ballistic buttons, which lasted
from 300-500 m before regrinding. For
each round, the blastholes were drilled to
depths of 5 m and took around 1.5-3 minutes apiece, with 75-76 holes required for
a full pattern. Productivity was kept at a
high average rate, with LNS achieving 3-4
rounds/day, and sometimes five. In the
worst conditions, this dropped to two
rounds/day.
For charging the upper holes and the
cut, the Rocket Boomer was equipped with
a Dyno hose charger mounted in the
basket. With this device it was possible to
regulate the volume of explosives injected
into each hole. A second hose was used
manually for charging the holes in the
lower part of the face, without the option
to regulate the volume of explosives
injected. A standard emulsion explosive
was used, mixed in the hole and detonated
using Nonel. Emulsion explosives are
more expensive than ANFO, but their
much-reduced blasting fumes allow operators to return to the face quicker after each
blast. Another advantage is that emulsion
components can be transported under the
flammable material rules, and are not
classified as explosive until they are in the
hole.
The mucking operation took around
1.5-2 h for around 380 t of blasted rock. A
conventional loader was used, with a fleet
of six trucks, with a grader keeping the
roadway clear and smooth. A face crew of
six was sufficient for each of the two
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SPITSBERGEN, NORWAY

shifts/day, while the total LNS crew on this

project was 52.
The tunnel was started in permafrost,
with a 400-500 m transition zone at each
end to reach solid rock. In these zones,
melting ice caused problems with the shotcrete application. LNS employed an accelerant in the shotcrete mix, and reinforced it
with steel fibres. Two rockbolts were generally required for each metre advance, but
problems with rock pressures sometimes
necessitated more extensive bolting, and
use of a hydraulic scaler. Polyester roofbolts were replaced by 2.4 m and 3 m
Swellex Manganese bolts in some of the
more difficult areas.
The drill and blast portion of the tunnel
project is now complete. Fitting out, and
installation of the ventilation and conveyor
systems, should be finished by the end of
the first quarter of 2004.

Equipment Modifications
The Rocket Boomer L2 C drillrig was
fitted with Atlas Copcos ABC Regular
control package, which indicates the hole
positions, but does not include full-function
automatic boom movement.
The contractor has had experience using
a computerized Rocket Boomer XL3 C on
the Norwegian mainland, but it was still a
major decision to send an RCS drillrig to a
remote location like Spitsbergen. During
commissioning, Atlas Copco provided
three or four days of basic training at site
to the new operators. The instructor then
remained in support for another three
weeks, and returned some months later for
a week of follow-up training. The contractor has taken care of maintenance and
operation of the rig during the entire project using his own people, without the need
of outside assistance.
In the transition zone between the permafrost and the rock, it was found that the
conventional anti-jamming system fitted to
the drillrig did not give sufficient warning
of jamming, resulting in some rod damage.
Atlas Copco suggested an alternative program, which suited the conditions better by
simultaneously monitoring rotation, feed
rate and water flow. This resolved the
problem, and there were no more instances
of rod damage caused by jamming.
By agreement with LNS, Atlas Copco
evolved a package of spares suited to the
remoteness of the operation. However,
FACE DRILLING

reliability was good, and only the usual

service parts such as filters and hoses were
required.
The SNSK mine also has an Atlas
Copco Swell bolter, originally supplied in
1986. This rig was rebuilt in 2001 and
equipped with the new HBU bolting unit
with a COP 1028 hydraulic rock drill. This
bolting unit is used in parts of the mine
with hard sandstone layers, where rotary
drilling cannot be used.
Svea Norths future looks good. The
mine has a projected life until 2013, and
there are another two deposits of 3.5
and 2.7 million t nearby that SNSK may
wish to develop. The company is also carrying out exploration work elsewhere on
Spitzbergen.

Rockbolts and shotcrete provide the

main support.

Acknowledgements
Atlas Copco is grateful to SNSK and LNS
for permission to publish this article,
which is derived from a site report written
by Mike Woof, editor of World Mining
Equipment magazine.
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HELSINKI, FINLAND

Central Wastewater Treatment

for City of Helsinki
Going Underground
The Viikinmaki central wastewater
treatment plant in Helsinki, Finland,
commissioned in the early 1990s,
was the largest underground facility
of its kind. It was also very successful. So much so, that it has recently
been extended with the addition of
some 200,000 cu m of space to
accommodate denitrification filters
and extra treatment lines.
The extension has been squeezed
into an area with low rock cover that
is close to surface development.
Hence, particular care had to be
taken with drilling and blasting, and
with rock reinforcement.
For the extreme drilling accuracy
required, contractor YIT used a new
Atlas Copco Rocket Boomer XL3 C
with COP 1838HF rock drills. The
faster drilling rate of the high frequency machines, combined with the
computer control of the drillrig,
resulted in very efficient excavation.
Additionally, some 60,000 m of rockbolts were installed using an Atlas
Copco Boltec 435 SH.

Centralization of Treatment
Helsinkis first wastewater treatment plants
were built in the 1910s. New plants were
progressively added to the system as the
population grew, until there were eleven
plants in operation by the beginning of the
1970s. This figure had dropped to eight by
the mid-1980s, however, as the first steps
towards centralization were taken.
This development coincided with the
completion of a feasibility study, which
examined the possibility of replacing all
the existing plants with one central treatment plant built underground in rock. The
goal was to construct a single technically
and economically efficient plant capable of
raising treatment efficiency, while also
meeting tough environmental restrictions.
The city council gave the go-ahead for
the project in 1986, and construction of
the Viikinmaki plant started early the
following year.
46

Wastewater was pumped from the old

treatment plants to the new central treatment plant, and nearly 20 km of new sewer
tunnels were built. The treated water is led
out to sea through an outfall tunnel, built in
the mid-1980s, and discharged into the sea
through a rock shaft, opening in the sea
bottom near the island of Katajaluoto,
8 km from the southern tip of Helsinki.
Several factors favoured Viikinmki as
the ideal location for the new plant. It was
centrally situated with respect to the older
treatment plants. The area was undeveloped, and it was high enough to allow a
single pumping stage from treatment to
outfall, with all the wastewater and sludge
treatment units located underground in rock.

Atlas Copco Rocket Boomer XL3 C

drilling at Viikinmaki.

Design of Extension
For nearly half a decade, the treatment
plant served mainly to reduce BOD and
phosphorus from waste water. In 1997,
extra equipment was installed to facilitate
50% nitrogen removal.
Initially, the total population to be
served was 750,000 inhabitants. However,
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HELSINKI, FINLAND

since original commissioning in 1993, the

population in the area has increased by
some 10,000, while the treatment requirements have become stricter.
Helsinki Water has undertaken an
ongoing project to extend the treatment
process to meet the stricter requirements,
especially regarding nitrogen, which had
to be reduced by 70%. The required
200,000 cu m extension to the Viikinmaki
plant houses de-nitrification filters and
additional treatment lines.
The treatment used is a typical activated
sludge process. Wastewater organics are
degraded by digesting sludge first in four
digesters, and then combusting the digester
gas to generate heat and electricity. The
energy thus recovered adds up to roughly
50% of the total electricity consumption,
and 100% of the heat requirement of the
entire plant.
The main designer and process designer
was Plancenter Ltd.
Lack of available space necessitated the
filling of old access tunnels with concrete,
and using rock masses as close as possible
to the margins of the hill. The existing
plant employs gravity discharge, and so the
new facilities had to take account of its
elevation. Helsinki City Geotechnical
Division was the tunnelling designer,
with engineering firm Rockplan Ltd as
subconsultant.
The two new treatment lines are parallel
with the old existing ones. The filter
cavern and related facility cavern are
transversely positioned, at the ends of the
sewage treatment lines.

Excavation
Rock Mechanics Technology Ltd was
selected to measure and calculate the
rock stress, using an overcoring technique.
Rock sample drilling, measure-whiledrilling (MWD), TV imaging, seismic
sounding, and radar were also employed.
Propagation of blasting vibration was
studied using test blasts. The two principal
stresses were found to be horizontal, with
magnitudes of 8 MPa and 3 MPa. The third
principal stress is vertical, and its magnitude
is 1 MPa. All principal stresses are
compressive.
Systematic monitoring of the movements
of the rock mass, and the rock quality, are
carried out by Suomen Malmi (SMOY)
and Geotek Oy, while groundwater level
FACE DRILLING

monitoring is the responsibility of Helsinki

City Geotechnical Division.
Residential houses, a school and streets
were built simultaneously with the construction of the sewage plant, imposing limitations on underground blasting and support
work. Building has only been allowed
where the rock cover exceeds 10 m.
The excavation contractor for the
200,000 cu m extension was YIT
Construction Ltd. Their contract commenced in May, 2000 and was completed
in January, 2002, and was valued at
5.6 million. Because of proximity to
the operating sewage plant, flexible
airtight blasting barriers of wooden beams
secured by steel cables were installed.
Initially, these were found to be too
flexible, and had to be braced with profile
steel.

Location of Viikinmaki wastewater

treatment plant and outfall.

Computer Based Drilling

YIT employed an Atlas Copco Rocket
Boomer XL3 C with ABC Total to drill
some 250,000 m of blastholes. This is a
fully-computerized hydraulic tunnelling rig
with high reaching Eagle console for huge
cross sections up to 179 sq m, and ideally
suited to conditions at Viikinmaki. It is
fitted with Atlas Copcos innovative Rig
Control System (RCS) with interactive
operator control panel with full-colour
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HELSINKI, FINLAND

Section of the Viikinmaki plant.

48

display of the computer-based drilling

system, which includes auto-collaring and
anti-jamming protection.
A major feature of this drillrig was that it
was one of the first to be equipped with the
HF version of Atlas Copcos successful
COP 1838 rock drill. The COP 1838HF has
a higher impact rate than the popular ME
version, delivering more frequent blows at
almost the same impact energy. The result is
up to 20% faster drilling in the 43-51 mm
hole range.
The long, slender piston of the COP
1838 series permits high impact energy to
be utilized, while considerably increasing
the service life of the drill steel. A
hydraulic double-dampening system absorbs
and dissipates the shockwaves from the
rock, while establishing the best possible
contact for the drillbit. The reversible
rotation motor gives high torque, and rotation speed is easily adjustable to match
changing rock conditions. The low profile
of the rock drill permits close drilling to
the sidewall, with only 2 degrees of lookout angle. Nitrogen charged accumulators
reduce vibrations and wear on hydraulic
components.
Between July and September, 2001, the
Rocket Boomer XL3 C drilled 42,500 m in
203 percussion hours, an average penetration rate of 140 m/percussion hour.

60,000 m of grouted steel rockbolts. YIT also

placed some 6,500 cu m of shotcrete, and
conducted cement grouting where necessary.
Some disused sewage tunnels and access
adits were filled with 4,200 cu m of concrete to rehabilitate the rock area for reuse.
All excavated rock has been crushed
and used in earth construction, where it
replaces natural gravel. Initially, the crushing was carried out on the surface, but as
soon as there was space enough underground, the crushing operations were
moved into a tunnel. Some 500,000 t of
rock was crushed underground using a
mobile crusher. The crusher capacity of
2,000 t/day over two shifts limited the
rate of rock excavation, despite optimum
worksite arrangements.
The bedrock is mostly hard and crystalline, but the extension site is crossed by
a fractured zone, affecting three of the
tunnels, which have a span of 17 m and a
roof thickness of only 2-3 m. Here, rockbolting of roofs and walls was carried out
in fans from two directions, while the
excavation advanced in small increments.
The excavation was completed in early
2002. The filter cavern was commissioned
in late-2003, and the additional treatment
line is due in late 2004.

Rock Reinforcement

The editor is grateful to Janne Lehto and

Veikko Koponen of YIT Construction Ltd
for their inputs and assistance with revision
of this article.

An Atlas Copco Boltec 435 SH was used

for drilling and installation of some

Acknowledgements

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OVRE ARDAL, NORWAY

Replacing Norways Tyin

Hydropower Plant
Environmentally
Sensitive Construction
Norwegian contractor Selmer Skanska
has completed its part of the construction of the replacement for the
1940s hydropower station serving
the rdal aluminium smelter, located
near Sogndal in western Norway.
Overall cost of the project will be
approximately 180 million, with the
Selmer Skanska contract accounting
for 60 million. The new power station
has been excavated in rock, together
with nearly 21 km of associated tunnels of various cross sections.
The client, Norsk Hydro, is committed to preservation, and this is
reflected both inside and outside the
mountain, and includes health, environment and safety. This was emphasised when they awarded the
contract, along with an insistence
that their current daily production of
electricity should not be disrupted.
Three generations of Atlas Copco
drillrigs were used at Tyin, ranging
from the older Boomer H 185 and
322, through Rocket Boomer 353 C,
to the latest L2 C and fully computerized WL3 C, equipped with the new
COP 1838HF rockdrills. Secoroc supplied its Magnum SR 35 rock tools for
the drillrigs, and Atlas Copco refurbished a Robbins 97RL C raise borer
for the surge shaft excavation. There
is even an Atlas Copco Wagner
ST1000 Scooptram at site!
Tyin is a testament to the ability of
a single company to supply and support all the equipment necessary for
a major tunnelling project, while
complying with the environmental
strictures placed on working in sensitive areas of the world.

Tunnel System
The tunnel system runs from a laketap
intake in Lake Tyin to the existing storage
lake at Torolmen, and then on to the powerstation penstocks and turbines, finally discharging through a tailrace at rdalsvatnet.
Five surface creek intakes have also
been constructed. These are being coupled
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to the existing power tunnel, which will

then work as a top feed to the new tunnel,
connected by a shaft located approximately
halfway along its alignment. Selmer
Skanska subsidiary E-Service has drilled
the 1 m-diameter x 25-50 m-long holes to
connect the creeks to the existing headrace.
An access tunnel 1.54 km-long with
50 sq m cross section was driven downgrade at 1:10 to reach the power station
site in June, 2002. The rock cover of
1.5 km is resulting in heavy pressure on
tunnel face and crown.
It involved some 75,000 cu m of excavation using an Atlas Copco Rocket

Rocket Boomer WL3 C equipped with

1838 HF rockdrills at tailrace tunnel
face.

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OVRE ARDAL, NORWAY

First worksite for the upgraded

Robbins 97 RL C raiseborer
Torholmen
Tya

Tyin
1073-1083 m.o.h.

Existing tunnel
Shaft
New tunnel

New powerhouse
Lake rdal
3 m above sea level

Idealized section of Tyin tunnel

system.

Boomer 353 C equipped with 5.5 m-long

Secoroc Magnum SR35 rods to drill the
hard gneiss. Some 75-80 x 48 mm holes
were drilled per round, using Secoroc
Magnum SR35 button bits, to obtain a
4.85 m pull. Dyno Nobel slurry explosive
and Nonel detonation provided good fragmentation, and spoil removal was undertaken by a subcontractor.

Power Station
The power station excavation was completed in October, 2003, with dimensions
17 m-wide x 60 m-long x 38 m-high,
beneath 1.6 km of rock cover. It is
Atlas Copco ROC 642 HP used for bulk excavation of
power station cavern.

designed to replace output from the

existing plant and to add an extra 15%,
bringing electricity production to 1,400
GWh annually, without changing the water
reservoirs.
The power station roof was profile
drilled using a Rocket Boomer 353 C and
supported by 6 m-long resin anchored
rockbolts installed on a 2 m square pattern
in holes drilled by an Atlas Copco Boomer
H185 drillrig. Some 7-10 cm of steel fibre
reinforced shotcrete was applied, using a
truck-mounted jumbo.
An Atlas Copco ROC 642 HP quarry
rig drilled 4 m-long x 64 mm-diameter vertical blastholes with 2.5 m burden on the
benches for bulk excavation of the powerhouse, where the generator pit will house
two Pelton turbines. These will be driven
by the hydrodynamic forces created by
over 1,000 m of head between Lake Tyin
and the powerhouse. Massive crane rails
have been installed to cope with the turbine
components and the 240 t transformers.
Some 7,000 cu m of concrete foundations had been poured for the new power
station by January, 2004, and electrical and
mechanical installation commenced.

Tailrace
The tailrace tunnel is 2.7 km-long, and
9.5 m-high x 5.5 m-wide, with 46 sq m
section. This was driven by a new Atlas
Copco Rocket Boomer WL3 C drillrig
with three booms and a basket, delivered
in February, 2002. The WL3 C is equipped
with the latest 1838 HF rockdrills, which
drilled at 1.5 m/min in the granite gneiss. It
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OVRE ARDAL, NORWAY

drilled 90 holes/round using 5.5 m-long

rods and 48 mm button bits with Secoroc
Magnum SR35 thread, with blasting by
Dyno Nobel slurry with Nonel detonators.
The rock cover of 1.5 km resulted in
heavy pressure on the mountain side of the
drive, causing blocky ground which had to
be secured using 4 m-long resin anchored
bolts. Some 12-15 bolts were installed per
round, in alternating rings of 6 and 7 at
2.5 m spacing. Where the rock tension permitted, 2.4 m-long bolts were used. Steel
fibre reinforced shotcrete was applied as a
matter of course.
Turning niches were excavated at 130 m
intervals for the wheeled loaders, which
discharged into road tippers. Rock from the
tailrace tunnel was carried by bottom dump
barges to an area of the fjord that has been
reclaimed as a nature reserve. The access
and tailrace tunnel entrances are 3 km apart
along a tarmac all-weather public highway.
Large 1.8 m-diameter fans and 2 m
ducts provided 35 cu m/min of fresh air to
the faces.

Headrace
The pressure tunnel was advanced at
27 sq m section on a 0.5% gradient from the
power station position towards Lake Tyin.
Meantime, development of the 350 mlong Biskopsvatn adit was commenced in
October, 2001, at a point approximately
halfway along the 7 km alignment between
the power station and the storage lake
known as Torolmen. Biskopsvatn adit
reached the pressure tunnel horizon by
Christmas, 2001.
From here, the pressure tunnel was
advanced in both directions using two
identical Atlas Copco 353 S drillrigs and
tracked loaders with 2.1 cu m side tipping
buckets at each face, operated by single
crews on each of two shifts. A maximum
35 rounds/week was achieved, with an
average of 26 rounds, which equated to
65 m advance.
Both rigs used Secoroc Magnum SR35
equipment, 5.5 m-long rods and 48 mm
button bits, in the 29-30 sq m section, and
each round took around 2 hours to drill.
A workshop was established underground at the junction of the Biskopsvatn
adit and the pressure tunnel drives.
Towards the right downgrade side, the
drive was in granite, and towards the left
upgrade side, it was in phyllite. Each round
FACE DRILLING

At the controls of the Rocket Boomer WL3 C.

required more blastholes in the phyllite,

together with up to six 102 mm cut holes.
The final stretch of tunnel, from Lake
Torolmen to the draw off point in
Lake Tyin, was driven from an adit using
an excavator loader and dumptrucks. The
first 226 m was downgrade, followed by
2.4 km slightly upgrade at 20 sq m section.
The face was drilled using an Atlas Copco
Rocket Boomer L2 C, using ANFO as the
blasting agent.

Surge Shaft
At a position known as Tora Bora because
of its remoteness, the 9,000 cu m surge
chamber was excavated early in the project

One of the Atlas Copco Rocket Boomer

353 C drillrigs.

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OVRE ARDAL, NORWAY

Robbins 97RL C set up and drilling at

Tora Bora.

using an Atlas Copco 322 twin-boom drillrig and ANFO. Poor access limited the size
of equipment that could be used, which
included a Wagner ST1000 Scooptram.
The 436 m-long x 4.04 m-diameter
surge shaft was raise bored from the surge
chamber by Skanska Raise Boring AB
using its Robbins 97RL C. This is a high
power and low profile raise drill specially
designed for working on sites with size and
weight restrictions, and is one of the
strongest ever produced for up to 600 mlong raises in the diameter range of
2.4 m-5.0 m. The conversion of the 13
year-old machine to computer control was
undertaken by the Raise Boring department at Atlas Copco in Orebro, Sweden,
who upgraded the entire system using RCS
technology, and added a new power pack
and electrical cabinet. The upgrade made
the control system more reliable and easier
to use, and the raise drill easier to assemble
at site, because of the reduction in cabling.
Technical data can be logged and downloaded onto a PC card, and the whole
system is programmable, making it easier
to add new features. Indeed, a catch-rope
feature was added and programmed into
the machine after it had been delivered and
set up. With this feature installed, if the
reamer loosens, it is restrained by a wire
rope inside the drillstring, and a red light
appears on the panel.
Due to weight restrictions and size
limits of the access road along the mountainside, the machine had to be dismantled
and hauled in by tractor. It took Skanska
nine trips to get the raise drill into place,
and an additional 30-40 helicopter trips for
transportation of drill rods and accessories.
Site preparation and assembly took around
three weeks.

During winter, it was impossible to keep

the road open due to snowstorms, and the
raise drilling crew had to rely on helicopter
or snowmobiles for transportation. To
avoid a cumbersome commuting situation,
night-quarters were fitted in the warm
and snow free tunnel, close to the working
site.
Drilling of the 15 in pilot hole started in
December, 2002 and took three months to
complete. A drift from the power tunnel
reached the lower level of the pilot hole by
March, 2003, and reaming of the 4.04 mdiameter shaft commenced the following
month and was completed by the end of
June, 2003.

Summary
The Tyin project began in September, 2001
and is scheduled for completion in
October, 2004. A total of 4,500 rounds has
been blasted to remove 680,000 cu m
of rock. Some 27,086 rockbolts and
15,100 cu m shotcrete were installed.
Selmer Skanska and its subcontractors
had a total of 160 employees on site, of
which 50 lived at the intermediate adit
location, with the remainder at a camp in
rdal, next to the site area. Everybody
worked the North Sea system of two weeks
on and one week off.
Excavation was completed during 2003,
with the final blast in the tailrace taking
place in the last week in May, and the
headrace from Biskopsvatn to the powerstation breaking through on 10th July. The
draw-off tunnel at Torolmen was finished
at the end of July, with the lake tap left
ready drilled for blasting, scheduled to take
place in mid-2004. The piercing of
Ardalsvatn from the tailrace will be carried
out in Spring, 2004.
Selmer Skanska is justifiably proud of
its progress on this project, which involved
drilling and blasting nearly 21 km of
tunnel and excavating 45,000 cu m of
powerstation in just 19 months. This part
of the project was completed without a
single serious accident during the course of
600,000 manhours.

Acknowledgements
Atlas Copco is grateful to Magnar
Myklatun, project manager for Selmer
Skanska at Tyin for his assistance with this
article.
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ZINKGRUVAN, SWEDEN

Mechanized Bolting at
Zinkgruvan
Partners in Production
Zinkgruvan Mining AB, Swedens
third largest mining company, is a
member of Rio Tinto Ltds Copper
Division. Zinkgruvan Mining produces
zinc and lead concentrates for shipment to smelters in northern Europe.
The mine has been continuously in
production since 1857, and ore output
now stands at about 835,000 t/year,
together with 185,000 t of waste
from development.
Production is obtained from open
stopes where, following difficulties
with seepage from hydraulic fill
when rock quality diminished, the
mine now uses paste fill. Rather than
deepen the main hoisting shaft, the
main ramp access was developed
below the 800 m level, and will
bottom out at 1,100 m under present
plans. Key to Zinkgruvan production
efforts is equipment supplied by
Atlas Copco, which includes four
Simba production drillrigs, three
Rocket Boomers and two Boltec rigs,
together with maintenance and consumable supply contracts.

Lower Development
In order to mine below the 800 m level, the
mine uses three Kiruna Electric trucks for
ore and waste haulage to the main crusher.
A Simba M4 C longhole drilling rig is
used on production, drilling up to 40 mlong x 76 mm or 89 mm-diameter blastholes. The machine produces some 50,000
drillmetres/year, while an older Simba
1357 drills a similar number of metres in
the 51-64 mm range. The mine is so
impressed with the stability of the Simba
M4 C rotation unit that it has had an old
Simba 1354 rebuilt to incorporate the same
unit. A Simba M7 C has been delivered for
cable bolt drilling. The drilling consumables are supplied by Atlas Copco Secoroc
under contract. The ramp will be driven
from the current 980 m to the 1,100 m level.
An Atlas Copco Rocket Boomer L2 C is
used on ramp and sublevel development,
where the requirement is for 18 rounds/week
FACE DRILLING

on a 2 x 7 h shift basis. The mine has an

option to purchase a second twin-boom
Rocket Boomer, this time an M2 C, which
is the mining version of their existing L2 C.

Atlas Copco Rocket Boomer M2 C

developing the sublevels.

Rock Reinforcement
The mine installs up to 20,000 resin
anchored rockbolts each year, and, having
upgraded its production process, found that
bolting became the new bottleneck. After
prolonged testing of the latest Atlas Copco
Boltec LC, they ordered two units.
Using these machines, the working
environment for the bolting operatives has
improved immeasurably, since the continuous manual handling of resin cartridges
has been eliminated. The Boltec LC is a
fully mechanized rockbolting rig, with
computer-based control system for high
productivity and precision. The Zinkgruvan
models feature a new type of magazine
holding 80 resin cartridges, sufficient for
installation of 16 rockbolts before refill. It
is equipped with a stinger, which applies
constant pressure to keep it stable at the
hole during the entire installation process.
The operator can select the number of resin
cartridges to be shot into the hole, for
which the rig air capacity is excellent.

Vital Combination
The Rig Control System (RCS) features an
interactive operator control panel with
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ZINKGRUVAN, SWEDEN

hydraulic system with fewer and shorter

hoses for increased availability. Data transfer is by PC-card, which also allows service
engineers to store optimal drill settings.
The MBU bolting unit on the Boltec LC
features a single feed system, utilizing a
cradle indexer at the rear end, and a robust
drill steel support, plus indexer for grouting, at the top end. It is equipped with a
low-mounted magazine for 10 bolts,
designed for maximum flexibility during
drilling and bolting.
The COP 1532 rock drill is the shortest
in its class, with modern hydraulic reflex
dampening for high-speed drilling and
excellent drill steel economy. It has separately variable frequency and impact
power, which can be adapted to certain
drill steel/rock combinations.
The BUT 35HBE heavy-duty bolting
boom is perfect for direct, fast and accurate positioning between holes. Large
capacity working lights, and a joystickoperated spotlight, ensure that the operator
has outstanding visibility from his working
position.
Atlas Copco Boltec LC installing
rockbolts in a development drive.

Grinding Secoroc bits on a Grind Matic

BQ2 machine.

full-colour display of the computer-based

drilling system. Automatic functions in the
drilling process, such as auto-collaring and
anti-jamming protection, as well as
improved regulation of the rock drill, provide high performance and outstanding drill
steel economy. There is integrated diagnostic and fault location, and a distributed

Profitable Collaboration
The Rig Control System (RCS), originally
developed for Boomer rigs, is now also
installed on Simba and Boltec rigs, so the
mine benefits from the common concept.
Atlas Copco has total responsibility for
all service and maintenance operations on
its equipment at Zinkgruvan, and has three
service engineers stationed permanently at
site. The company is also under contract
for the supply, maintenance and grinding
of Secoroc rock drilling tools, overseen by
a Secoroc specialist.
From the mine point of view, they
believe they have profited by their collaboration with Atlas Copco, particularly in the
field testing of the new generation rigs.
Early exposure to the capabilities of these
machines has allowed them to adapt their
mining and rockbolting methods to the
new technology, giving them a head start
on the savings to be achieved.

Acknowledgements
This article is based on a paper written by
Gunnar Nystrom. The editor also gratefully acknowledges the inputs of Jonas
Sodergren, Hans Sjoberg and Conny
Ohman, all of Zinkgruvan Mining.
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Efficient Underground Limestone

Production
Trading Costs For
Profit
Limestone is in such great demand,
both as high quality roadstone and as
the raw material for cement manufacture, that its mining is frequently carried out underground. Proximity to
the market or availability of a suitable
mineral deposit may be the driver,
but economic extraction is the deciding factor. In essence, the underground limestone mines are trading
off the savings in surface transportation costs by being closer to the point
of use, against the marginal difference in production costs between
surface and underground working.
Where these are approximately in
balance, an underground mine can be
profitable. Hence, the major characteristic of a successful underground
limestone mining operation is its efficiency, and the single greatest factor
affecting this is the cost of drilling
and blasting. Atlas Copco drillrigs are
bringing down this cost by a combination of drilling speed and accuracy
with low maintenance and longevity.
Matching the drillrig to the job
ensures that, whatever the mining
situation, economic long-term production can be achieved, sometimes with
the whole operation dependent upon
a single machine. The following case
studies from five very different locations serve to underline this point.

Aggregate from Auersmacher

Since 1936, almost 20 million t of limestone have been produced at Auersmacher,
a border town in Saarland, Germany.
Mining activity has left a cavity of nearly
7.8 million cubic metres in the form of
225 km of underground roadways. The
mining area covers almost 4 sq km, with
overburden of approximately 50 m in thickness and an average mining height of some
6 m. The Triassic strata comprises a shelly
limestone, which is excellently suited as an
aggregate for the local steel industry.
The mine is working a room and pillar
system of extraction in the horizontal
FACE DRILLING

deposit, and the standard face is 5 m-high

and 6.5 m-wide. The length of a room plus
pillar is about 100 m, and some limestone
is left to form the roof.
The mine uses a diesel-powered Atlas
Copco Rocket Boomer L1 C-DH hydraulic
drillrig, because there is no electricity
supply installed to the faces. It is equipped
with Rig Control System (RCS) and a COP
1838 rock drill with 22 kW output. As a
result, blast holes of 51 mm-diameter can
now be drilled to depths of 3.4 m at a rate
of 6-8 m/min. Each V-cut round of 35
holes produces up to 340 t, and takes only
an hour to drill.
Since the Rocket Boomer rig started
operations, it has drilled entire daily production output of Auersmacher in a oneshift operation, returning very favourable
operating and wear costs. Mine output is
now 350,000 t/year, and the rig is drilling
six rounds/day, working dayshift only. The
rest of the mine works two 8 h shifts/day,
5 days/week, with a Saturday morning
shift for non-production work if required.
Experience with the diesel hydraulic
unit has shown it to be economic on fuel,
and to exhibit low exhaust gas emissions.
The Boomer L1 C-DH features a BF6M
1013 CP engine with EMR and catalyzer
which consumes only about 19 litres of

Atlas Copco Rocket Boomer L1 C-DH

drilling the face at Auersmacher
limestone mine.

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NORTHERN HEMISPHERE

View from the drivers seat of the

Rocket Boomer L1 C-DH.

Norcem Rocket Boomer L2 C drilling a

top heading at Dalen, Norway.

dieseline for each percussion drilling hour,

and can complete two shifts on a single
tank of fuel. The excellent exhaust emission values are very important in underground mining, where ventilation can be
costly.
Due to the very good drilling and flushing characteristics using water mist, drill
rod losses are negligible. Water consumption varies from 2-5 lit/min depending
upon rock conditions, and a full tank lasts
a week. The water mist mix is adjusted by

the operator: with too little water, it is

impossible to drill; with too much, the
cuttings become slurried.
The rotation speed has a profound effect
on penetration rate. In the limestone rock
at Auersmacher, the optimum speed is
400 rev/min. Dropping it to 300 rev/min
reduces the penetration rate by 2 m/min.
Drilling is carried out exclusively with
Atlas Copco shank adapters and drill rods,
and the very good dampening and anti-wear
properties of the equipment has resulted in
enormously long service lives, despite the
high work capacity. For example, the
approximate service life of drill bits is 3,200
drillmetres, rods 10,000 drillmetres, and
shank adapters, 18,500 drillmetres.
Secoroc shank adapters and steels are
used with a 51 mm ballistic bit. The mine
switched from 42 mm bits for a 2 m/min
improvement in penetration rate, with
accompanying gains in ANFO blast yield.
At the start of each drilling shift, the
operator takes around 15 minutes to check
the engine oil, feed hoses and grease
points. His training as a mechanic helps
him to get the best out of the sophisticated
engine. The servicing requirements have
no negative impact on mine production.
High temperature greasing of the rock
drill gearbox is carried out every 40 hours,
or once a week.
The close support of the Atlas Copco
team has resulted in a collaborative
relationship that gets the best out of the
equipment.

Linwood, USA
Another Rocket Boomer L1 C-DH was
delivered to the Linwood Stone mine in
Iowa, USA for use in limestone with an
average compressive strength of 165 Mpa.
This rig is equipped with RCS using
ABC Basic software for assisted boom
positioning, collaring point, hole direction,
hole depth control, and statistics. A
Diarot study was conducted on this rig,
in order to calculate the correct settings for
the rock drill, without using trial and error.
Increased performance was obtained by
adjusting the rotation speed to 400+ rpm,
and using a newly developed button bit
from Secoroc, which features increased
button protrusion, and more and bigger
flushing holes.
The Rocket Boomer L1 C-DH is
achieving penetration rates of 3.5 to
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NORTHERN HEMISPHERE

A single Atlas Copco Rocket Boomer

L2 C with RCS and unparalleled reliability
produces an impressive 1 million t/year at
Dalen limestone mine, located on the
southern coast of Norway. Dalen limestone
comprises sediments of OrdovicianSilurian origin, which occur in a regular
bed of around 40 m-thickness.
The limestone is located between a footwall of metamorphic rock and a hanging
wall of sandstone, and the deposit is
dipping 15-20 degrees to the east, below
the Eidaneerfjord. The cement plant and
the community of Brevik sit right on top
of the deposit, which comprises the largest
underground operating mine in Norway.
The decision to purchase the Rocket
Boomer L2 C rig was helped by Norcems
positive experiences with its previous
23-year old Boomer H 132.
The Rocket Boomer is used both for
developing new areas and for production
drilling, on two shifts/day, five days/week.
Maintenance takes some 3-4 h/week, and
rig availability has been close to 100%,
with hardly any unplanned stops. The mine
gets a lot of work out of the rig, drilling
282,000 m/year.
The Rocket Boomer L2 C rig was
specially fitted to Norcems requirements
with COP 1838 ME rockdrills, and the
RCS and ABC Total automated boom
positioning and drilling system. The rig
was also equipped with an extra-wide
boom console to increase the width of the
coverage area.
Norcem uses the software program
Tunnel Manager Lite to design the drilling
plans, which are pre-programmed in the
office and transferred into the rigs control
panel by using a conventional PC card.
Drilling logs are also stored on the PC
card.
Boom positioning and drilling of the
pre-selected drill plan can be fully automated or semi-automated with manual
positioning. The cross section of the top
headings is 14 m-wide and 8 m-high, and a
Vee cut is used. Here the rounds consist of
105 holes drilled to depths of 5.4 m at
48 mm-diameter.
For the first crosscut round, where the
face is not flat, about 65 holes tend to be
FACE DRILLING

e
Strik
p
Di

Cement from Dalen

Hanging wall
(The Venstop formation)

Limestone
(The Steinvika formation)

cro
ssc
ut
drift

cro
ssc
ut

h
benc

h
benc
ben
chin
g

ben
chin
g

Hor

ison

approx. 40 m

4.5 m/min, which is a doubling in output

over the previous generation of drillrigs.

tal p

illar
8m

Foot wall
(The Fossum formation)
Dip

13 -

drift

20 o

drilled in the fully automated mode.

When the top heading drifts are complete, they are followed by horizontal
benching, 14 m-wide and 6 m-high, to
achieve the full room dimension of 14 m x
14 m. Some 4-5 rounds of 1,500-1,600 t
are blasted each day consuming about
550 kg of explosives/round. Production is
switched between working faces in the
mine, of which there can be up to 40 at any
given time. The 15 km/h tramming speed
of the Rocket Boomer L2 C between faces
helps its overall high utilization.
Because of the non-abrasive nature of
the rock, and the rigs ability to continuously optimize drilling parameters, shank
adapters and drill steel last for up to 8,000
drillmetres, and the 48 mm Secoroc drillbits last for around 2,200 drillmetres.
Conventional hydraulic rigs are now
expected to last for a million drillmetres/
boom, but the combination of selfadjusting rock drills and Norcems high
maintenance standards could well double
that figure for their Rocket Boomer L2 C.

Section of mining layout at Dalen.

Dolomite from Trier

Alongside the German border with
Luxembourg at the Mosel river, southwest
of Trier, dolomite rock has been mined
ever since 1881.
Josefstollen, the mine currently being
operated, opened in 1964. Each year it produces some 600,000 t of raw dolomite,
which is intended primarily for the building industry.
Owner Winfried Meseke has been operating the mine since 2002 under the name
TKDZ GmbH Wellen, which stands for
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NORTHERN HEMISPHERE

about half an hour. The dolomite does not

present itself as a continuously compact
formation, but exhibits soft and difficultto-drill formations throughout. This is
where the benefit of the RCS is felt, with
its extremely short and highly sensitive
response time for hammer and feed
control.
The Rocket Boomer L1 C-DH is
exceeding its planned output, leaving
plenty of scope for increased output when
required. Currently, most of the production
is obtained in one shift, with only part of
the second shift devoted to drilling.
The air-water mist flushing, with its
extremely small dosing of water for dust
control, is the perfect match for the moisture-sensitive ANFO explosive used in the
mine.
Swellex rock reinforcement is used
throughout the mine, using a special
anchor platform equipped with water tank,
pump and generator.
Rocket Boomer L1 C-DH at TKDZ.

58

Trierer Kalk-, Dolomit- und Zementwerke.

Mine reserves are around 40 million t of
raw dolomite, enough for a further 40 years
of production at todays rates.
Trier dolomite, with an average compressive strength of 130 and 150 Mpa, is
used mainly for the building materials
industry. Its excellent quality, combined
with optimized underground mining and
efficient preparation and processing standards, ensure it reaches the market at competitive prices.
Mining is carried out by conventional
room and pillar methods, at two gallery
levels in the bottom and middle beds. Each
mining area is opened up by horizontal
galleries, which are interconnected with
the individual beds via ramps. The room
width is 5 m in the bottom bed and 5.5 m
in the middle bed, and the rooms are 5 m
to 5.5 m high.
For one pull, a total of 29 of 45 mmdiameter holes are drilled to a depth of
3.3 m, with a Vee-cut to form the breaking
face. With this combination, approximately
13 pulls/day are required to satisfy production demands.
Drilling is carried out by a dieselhydraulic Rocket Boomer L1 C-DH
mounting a COP 1838 HF rock drill with
air-water mist flushing. The rock drill,
with an 20 kW output and a speed of 500
rpm, takes between 25 and 30 seconds to
drill a 3.3 m hole, a penetration rate of 6.67.9 m/min. The total time for one round is

Anhydrite at Obrigheim
HeidelbergCement is one of the worlds
leading producers of building materials.
Founded in Heidelberg in 1873, the company operated exclusively in the south of
Germany until the end of the 1960s.
Through international acquisitions, the
company has gained markets around the
world, resulting in total 2002 sales of 6.6
billion, and employing some 37,000 people
at its 1,500 sites in 50 countries.
HeidelbergCement AG operates an
underground mine in Obrigheim, Germany
producing gypsum and anhydrite using a
Rocket Boomer L1 C drillrig since early
2003. An extensive training programme
for drillrig operators was provided by
Atlas Copco in all aspects of the equipment, drilling, system training and
maintenance. The result has been excellent
performance and high utilization.
The Obrigheim gypsum mine is located
on the West side of the river Neckar,
between the villages of Obrigheim and
Hochhausen, near the Mosbach administrative centre.
Gypsum has been mined here since
1847, and HeidelbergCement AG has been
operating the mine since 1905. Parts of the
lower sulphate deposit of the lacrustine
limestone are mined, using the lower
dolomite as level boundary. The deposit
slopes approximately 2% to the south.
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Rocket Boomer L1 C at Obrigheim.

The mine is accessed by three adits on

the west side of the Neckar, positioned
approximately 60 m above the river, and a
fourth adit is used for return ventilation.
Production is by room and pillar, in
which the first step is to expose sections
10 m-wide and approximately 5.5 m-high
by drilling and blasting.
In the next step, the computerized
Rocket Boomer L1 C, equipped with RCS,
drills a 4.5 m round of 60 off 45 mm blastholes and 4 off 89 mm cut holes, which is
an optimized drill pattern to maximize the
pull per round. The Rocket Boomer is
equipped with a heavy-duty COP 1838 HF
rock drill. The hydraulic system and onboard compressor are driven by a 75 kW
electric motor, while the diesel engine is
used to move the rig around the mine. A
water tank with admixing device provides
the flushing medium when drilling.
Given the very large variation in the
compressive strength of gypsum and anhydrite, between 10 to 130 Mpa, penetration
rates also vary significantly. A 4.5 m-long
x 45 mm-diameter hole is drilled in 40 to
75 seconds. The computerized drilling log
has recorded an average penetration rate
of 3.23 m/min, including the cut holes, for
the 100,000 metres completed to date.
Taking into account the large variation in
rock strength and the chosen bit design,
an optimum rotation speed of 430 rpm has
been established for drilling 45 mm holes.
A pull of 4.5 m/round is achieved using
4 kg to 5 kg of explosives/t injected by a
charger mounted on a lifting platform. The
blasted rock is crushed to an aggregate size
of 0-70 mm, then sorted by grades and
placed in rooms in an intermediate storage
area. The main quality parameters are the
FACE DRILLING

gypsum/anhydrite ratio, and the overall

purity.
An important safety factor in the mine
is the efficient scaling of the backs and the
heading face. All exposed areas are cleared
using a telescopic scaling arm equipped
with an Atlas Copco MB800 (Krupp
HM580) hammer.
A conveyor system installed in one of
the three adits brings the aggregate to surface, where it is loaded in trucks or directly
onto barges on the River Neckar.
Of the 300,000 t/y output, 90% goes
to the cement industry and 10% to the
Neckarzimmern gypsum plant for the
production of building gypsum.

Conclusions
In all these mines, a single rig is handling
the entire production requirement of up to
1 million t/y, mainly due to a combination
of high performance with high availability.
Where there is no suitable electricity
supply to the mining areas to power an
electro-hydraulic rig, as at Auersmacher
and Linwood, the diesel-hydraulic rigs are
upgrading mining efficiency without
excessive capital expenditure. At these
mines, drilling rates have doubled with the
introduction of the Rocket Boomer L1 CDH, and round depths have increased
significantly. These machines, equipped
with water tanks and water mist flushing,
operate efficiently despite the absence of
mains supplies of water and electricity.
They are also adaptable, performing on
both production and development, and
handling rockbolt and ancillary drilling.
Efficiency and dependability are resulting
in profitability.
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Total Performance at
Skatestraum Fjord Crossing
Lowest Common
Denominator
When a contractor chooses to rely on a
single drillrig to perform all drilling
operations in his tunnel, then he has to
be very sure of his supplier. Atlas
Copco has been the prime supplier of
rock drilling equipment in Norway for
as long as anybody can remember.
During that time, the Norwegians have
become the leading exponents of the
art of hard rock tunnelling. So, when
Atlas Copco comes up with a new
product, Norway is the most reliable
testbed. Hence, when Statens Vegvesen
decided to progress the Skatestraum
project, the new Rocket Boomer WL3
C equipped with ABC Total found its
first job. As the only drillrig on the
project, the WL3 C was called upon
to drill blastholes, breaker holes,
probeholes and rockbolt holes. It
needed to combine pinpoint accuracy
with high efficiency, while drilling a
full face to 5.2 m depth from a single
setup in two hours. The high level
of computerization, combined with
Tunnel Manager Lite software,
ensured the accuracy, while the COP
1838ME rockdrills provided the clout.
The result was a satisfied client,
and yet another advance for the
Norwegian Tunnelling Method.

Introduction
The National Route Rv 616 is the name
given to the mainland connection to the
island of Bremanger, located in the
Nordfjord on the west coast of Norway.
The new road will use the island of
Rugsund as a staging post, hugging the
coast on the south side of the island
and traversing virtually its entire length.
The Rv 616 will be 4.9 km-long and
6.5 m-wide, to accommodate two lanes of
bi-directional traffic. Halfway along
Rugsund there will be a small rock tunnel,
and at the east end of the island the
proposed 470 m-long Krakevik tunnel
will connect with a 311 m-long bridge
to Kolset on the mainland.
60

Construction of these structures commenced during the course of 2000, with the
road and tunnels on Rugsund costing 8.5
million, and the bridge some 5 million.
Meantime,
the
1.89
km-long
Skatestraum underwater tunnel, which will
complete the fixed link to the mainland, has
been constructed from Klubben on
Bremanger to Hamnen at the west end of
Rugsund. It is the first underwater fjord
crossing in the County of Sogn og Fjordane,
diving on gradients of 1:10, some 40 m
below the seabed, to reach a lowest point
80 m below sea level. It has been constructed
to the Norwegian T-8 standard, which provides a 54 sq m finished section for two
lanes of bidirectional traffic, and has been
well-equipped, with emergency stop zones
with firefighting equipment and telephones.
It is also possible to use cellular phones and

Ferry Aurland provides access to

Bremanger at present.

Route of the Skatestraum tunnel

between Klubben and Hamnen.

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listen to the radio while driving through the

tunnel. In the event of an accident, police,
fire brigade and ambulance use dedicated
radio channels, and the tunnel is monitored
at all times by the Emergency Surveillance
Station in Floro, and by the Roads
Administration controlling stations in
Laerdal and Bergen. Automatic extraction
fans ensure good air quality at all times.
During the construction phase, water
leakage was controlled by injection of
cement grout. It is expected that a certain
volume will leak during the operational
phase, and so the road has been shielded
from dripping water.
Rock extracted from the tunnel was
transported to Berlepollen, where it was
used in the construction of the new road to
Berleneset.
The cost of the tunnel was 9.5 million.
It is managed by the Department of
Development, and was constructed by the
Production Department of Statens Vegvesen
Sogn og Fjordane for its parent, the
Norwegian Public Roads Administration.
The new fixed link offers ferry-free
access to the mainland for the 1,900
inhabitants of Bremanger, with safe and
reliable road transport for the products of
its fishing industry.
A second phase of road construction
will upgrade the Rv 614 road between
Leirgulen and Kolset, decreasing the distance between Bremanger and Svelgen by
33 km, and cutting out the need for the
ferry between Smorhamn on Bremanger
and Kjelkenes on the mainland.
Phase 1 was completed by end-2001,
while Phase 2 will not be included in the
priority list before 2007.

Construction
The fjord tunnel was built on a gentle
S-bend from the Bremanger side in gneiss,

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phyllite, and serpentite, with a zone of

banded gneiss with quartz. Geological
exploration comprised a 300 m-long directionally-drilled borehole some 6 m above
the crown of the tunnel, collared from a
small island at the end of a mole on the
Klubben side.
Six 51 mm probeholes were maintained
ahead of the face, drilled at 27 m length
with minimum 7 m overlap, using extension rods and button bits. One probehole
was drilled at each corner, with 7 m lookout, and the remaining two were drilled
forwards in the centre of the face. If more
than 10 litre/min of water was measured in
any probehole, grouting was undertaken.
Grouting was carried out over the first
150 m in 27 series of probeholes, and
again in the banded gneiss zone.
The first 180 m of tunnel was driven
using an Atlas Copco Rocket Boomer 353
drillrig previously employed by Statens
Vegvesen at Aurland on the Laerdal tunnel,
the worlds longest road tunnel. From
January, 2000 all drilling within the tunnel
was carried out using a new Atlas Copco
Rocket Boomer WL3 C drillrig.
The standard face round comprised 92 x
51 mm blastholes with 4 x 102 mm breaker
holes, all drilled to 5.2 m depth for a 5 m

Skatestraum portal with double

silenced 1.4 m fan and exhaust branch.

Section of Skatestraum fjord crossing.

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pumpshaft excavation at the base of the

tunnel to a settling tank positioned on the
shoreline. From here, clear water will
gravitate back into the fjord along a
11.9 m-long, 400 mm-diameter hole drilled
at 60 degrees angle through the rock.
The pumped water will originate from a
4,000 cu m collection sump excavated 8 m
below the lowest point of the tunnel roadway as an 85 m-long chamber.

Atlas Copco WL3 C

Atlas Copco Rocket Boomer WL3 C at

Skatestraum main face.

ANFO charger for Dyno site mixed

blasting agent.

pull. The drilling operation took two hours,

and charging a further hour. A 200 mm
dynamite primer cartridge, with Nonel
detonator, was placed at the back of each
hole before the main charge of ANFO was
introduced. The ANFO was mixed weekly
by Dyno, and stored in a licensed magazine at site.
Mucking by a subcontractor using a
wheel loader with side dumping bucket
into 24 cu m road semi-trailers took around
two hours, and the face was scaled using a
1.5 t hydraulic hammer mounted on a 15 t
wheeled excavator.
Around twenty 2.4 m-long grouted
rebar rockbolts were installed in the roof
for each round, a density of four per linear
metre of advance. A jumbo then applied
1.5 cu m of shotcrete per metre of advance,
reinforced by 40 kg/cu m of steel fibre.
Two 9.5 h/day shifts were operated, and
two excavation cycles/day were regularly
achieved. A 350 mm-diameter x 59 m-long
vertical connection was drilled from the

The Rocket Boomer WL3 C is a hydraulic

tunnelling drillrig with extra wide boom console that is designed for excavation of highway tunnels and underground caverns.
It features Rig Control System (RCS),
with interactive operator control panels
with full-colour display of the computerbased drilling system. Automatic functions
in the drilling process, such as autocollaring and anti-jamming protection, as
well as improved regulation of the rock
drill, provide high performance and outstanding drill steel economy.
The three rockdrills are highperformance COP 1838s, for high-speed
drilling with drill steel economy.
The Skatestraum WL3 C featured ABC
Total, which is the most advanced form of
boom control in the Atlas Copco ABC
series. The drill pattern and the drilling
sequence for each boom were created on
the office PC, using TML software, and
transferred to a PC card.
At the face, the drillrig was centred and
lifted on its jacks, and its position was
confirmed by placing one of the feeds in
line with the tunnel laser. The feed was
adjusted, so that the laser passed through
the hole in the centre of its rear target plate
and hit the centre of its front target plate.
The PC card was inserted into the rig
computer, the drill pattern was read
into it, and the operator entered the
chainage number for the section. The booms
then automatically went to the initial
start positions of their drilling sequences
and drilled the programmed holes.

Acknowledgements
Atlas Copco is grateful to the production
department of Statens Vegvesen, Sogn og
Fjordane for its assistance with this article
and, in particular, to project manager
Jostein Fjosne for revising the text.
62

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Challenges at Venda Nova

Primary Source of
Power
The Venda Nova Dam is situated on
the river Cavado in Ruives-Vieira do
Minho, in the far northern reaches of
Portugal, some 75 km north-east of
Porto. Portugal has very few natural
resources of fossil fuels, having to
import about 80% of its needs, so
hydroelectric power has become the
primary source of local energy.
As the need for electricity has
increased, the utility that owns the
dam, Companhia Portuguesa de
Produo de Electricidade (CPPE)
decided on a refurbishment project,
to include provision for two new
93 MW turbines. The project required the drill/blast excavation of
300,000 cu m of rock to provide a
2.8 km inlet tunnel, a 1.4 km discharge
tunnel, a powerhouse cavern, a 625 mlong ventilation tunnel, a 1,210 m
access tunnel, and a 130 m water
intake. There are also two raisebored shafts of 415 m and 110 m.
A consortium of three Portuguese
companies, Somague, Moniz da Maia
Serra & Fortunato (MSF) and Mota,
was formed to complete the civil
works of the Venda Nova project.
They chose Atlas Copco equipment
for the main operations, using Rocket
Boomer drillrigs, Secoroc rock tools,
Swellex rock reinforcement, and a
Robbins raise borer. Uppermost in
the contractors minds was the need
for high performance with reliable
spares and service backup, and training where required. Atlas Copco was
the only company able to provide the
complete service.

Venda Nova
Dam worksite

Location map for Venda Nova Dam worksite.

Atlas Copco Rocket Boomer L2 C in the tailrace tunnel.

Favourable Rock Conditions

Rock conditions at Venda Nova are mainly
favourable. The host rock is granite, with
some areas of schist, and zones with fractures and faults. However, geological problems have not been a factor in the project.
In the tunnels, 3 m or 4 m-long Swellex
bolts were the standard support, with steel
arches installed in the weakest rock conditions. During drill and blast operations, the
rock was classified round by round, with
the areas requiring the least support having
three to nine rockbolts/m. Only 20% of the
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NORTHERN PORTUGAL

Checking the raiseborer drillstring in

the 110 m shaft.

tunnel required concrete lining as final

support.
Atlas Copco Rocket Boomer drillrigs
were used for investigation and excavation
drilling. For the tunnels, Somague had one
Rocket Boomer L2 C with ABC Regular,
while Mota & Companhia had another
Rocket Boomer L2 C with ABC Total, as
well as a single-boom Boomer 281 rig for
smaller sections. They find that computerized drillrigs with profile control create less
overbreak, saving the time and cost of spraying concrete. Atlas Copco provided training
support for operators who were not skilled in
working with the drillrigs. At the start of the
project, a round was taking 5-6 h to drill, but,
by the end, this had been reduced to less than
2.5 h. Work progressed steadily at three
faces, and averaging 80 m-90 m per heading
and month, with a site record of 110 m.
The relationship between Somague and
Atlas Copco goes back some 40 years. They
use many Atlas Copco products such as:
Swellex bolts; Craelius grouting equipment,
tools, and registers; and Secoroc drilling
materials and rock drilling tools, for which
a contract guarantees adequate consignment
stocks. Advice is available on what equipment to use, what kind of lifetime figures to
expect from the rods, bits and shanks, and
how many metres they will drill in different
conditions. Somague is the leading company in Portugal for drilling, mining and
civil works, providing a complete service
from the start to finish of a project.

Raising Expectations
One of the most challenging aspects of the
project was the development of a 110 m
64

escape and ventilation shaft. This has a

decline of only 26 degrees, from the turbine hall to the existing ventilation and
escape system.
Drillcon Iberia Lda, a subsidiary of
Drillcon AB of Sweden, used a Robbins
73R raiseboring machine to develop the
shaft in fairly hard granite of 170 MPa.
The raiseborer was mounted on a concrete
platform in the escape tunnel, from where
the pilot hole was drilled down to the
turbine hall. The tunnel was then reamed
upwards, back to the escape tunnel.
A Secoroc RRL 3.5 m reamer was
flown in from Australia especially for the
job. The cutters performed perfectly, and
the mucking was very easy, using water
pressure to assist with flushing the muck
out during reaming. A total of 18 new cutters were used on the reamer: nine 5-row
cutters, and nine 4-row cutters. The raise
was completed in May, 2001, and the deviation on the hole was 40 cm, which is
less than 0.5%.
Atlas Copco assisted the contractors
with every step of the raiseboring process,
from training drillers on the Robbins unit,
to helping install new cutters on the
reamer. When the hole was finished, Atlas
Copco personnel were on hand to demonstrate servicing of the reamer, maintenance
of the cutters, and re-greasing.
Primarily a core drilling company,
Drillcon is also involved in a number of
raiseboring projects in Portugal and Spain.
At the Somincor Mine, they have two
Robbins raiseborers permanently on-site,
drilling approximately 2,500 m/year.

Cavern Excavation
For bench drilling in the caverns, Somague
has an Atlas Copco ROC 748 drillrig, and
MSF has a ROC D5. Both were used
extensively in the turbine hall, which represents almost a third of the project, where
excavation was completed in September,
2002.
Three phases of drilling and blasting
were necessary, with a drift on the top
gallery, and two side drifts with a central
rock pillar. The cavern roof was supported
using one 9 m-long bolt per sq m, installed
with a BSH system on one of the Rocket
Boomer rigs. This avoided overhead
drilling and manual installation.
Bolting was followed by shotcreting,
and the central pillar was removed. The
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NORTHERN PORTUGAL

Atlas Copco ROC D5 drillrig under maintenance.

rest of the cavern was blasted and

mucked out via the access tunnel. Then
the cavern walls, requiring less support,
had 6 m bolts installed on a 2 m x 2 m
pattern.
The new Venda Nova plant and tunnel
system is scheduled to be in operation in
2004. Apart from providing much-needed
generating capacity for the national grid,
Venda Nova will also act as a pumped
storage station serving its companion
dam Paradela, further downstream. When
electricity demand is low, water that
has passed through the powerhouse for
storage at Paradela can be pumped back
through 4 km of tunnels to the Venda Nova
Lake, to provide extra power at peak
periods.

Secoroc at the leading edge of cutter design

Secoroc RCC Duro Cutters were designed with
outstanding performance and service life in
mind. The cutter body is made from high quality
alloy steel. Thanks to improved geometry, the
new chisel inserts deliver more aggressive
drilling, and a faster penetration rate.
All cutters feature an internal pressurecompensating device to protect the seals from
excessive lubrication pressure and heat.
Secoroc RCC Duro Cutter.

Secoroc RRL 3.5 m reamer as supplied to Venda Nova.

Furthermore, pre-loaded tapered roller bearings

provide maximum shock resistance. The serviceability of the Secoroc cutter is superb. All
parts are replaceable, giving an added boost to
total service life.
Secoroc reamers are available from 0.7 mdiameter, all the way to 6 m. Secoroc supplies
standard, box hole and down reamers, as well as
custom solutions.

FACE DRILLING

65

The face of interaction

www.thp.se

Supporting your business

wherever you are

Atlas Copco supplies the wide range of advanced

cost-efficient rock reinforcement solutions for
mining and tunnelling, including fully-mechanized
Boltec rock bolting rigs, Swellex rock bolts and
MAI self-drilling anchors.

Because were a global organization, we have the

resources to be truly local.
Find out more at www.rockreinforcement.com.
Or give us a call. Wed be happy to listen to your
requirements, and even happier to meet them.

Each and every product has been designed to help

maximize your tunnel advance and minimize costs
per installed bolt or anchor and always with the
highest level of safety in mind.

Atlas Copco Rock Drills AB

Phone: +46 19 670 7000
Fax: +46 19 670 7393
www.atlascopco.com

Rock reinforcement-FD3.indd 1

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PRAGUE, CZECH REPUBLIC

Overcoming Mixed Geology

at Mrzovka
Drilling for Boodex
and Blastholes
When incorrect assumptions were
made about the hardness of the rock
on the south side of Pragues
Mrzovka Hill, the situation was
retrieved by using a Rocket Boomer
L2 C drillrig. The full flexibility of the
drill/blast technique was instrumental
in easing the face past sensitive installations located both above and below
the drive. Meantime, in much softer
strata at the north end of the tunnel,
two L2 Cs were converted to the
Boodex system to enable the contractor to install and maintain an arch of
20-23 grouted umbrella holes over
the crown. This system employs a
90 mm Odex pilot bit with 123 mm excentre drillbit to drill the holes, using
3 m-long R38 extension steel. This is
followed into the hole by threaded
3 m-long sections of 115 mm perforated casing tube to full depth of 12 m.
Then the Odex bit and extension steel
is withdrawn, leaving the casing in
place. The hole is pumped with stiff
cement at 5 bar pressure, through a
hose with an expandable packer.
The manoeuvrability and adaptability of the Rocket Boomer L2 C drillrigs have enabled the contractors at
both ends of the tunnel to maintain
operations under adverse circumstances, with little impact on cost and
time, and without substantially changing the overall completion schedule.

to Radlick Street, while the eastern tube

has two lanes plus an entry lane from
Radlick Street. Both have standard crosssections of 160 sq m. At the south end, the
tunnel portals under Radlick Street in
extensive box structures, where it joins the
proposed Zlchov-Radlick road. The whole
job took four years and was completed in
2003.

North portals of Mrzovka where the

motorway through the Strahov tunnel
came to an abrupt end.

Designing Support
A 700 m-long pilot tunnel with arched
12 sq m section was driven earlier by
Metrostav, using a roadheader from the
north end of the alignment of the proposed
west tube of the Mrzovka tunnel, close to
the crown position. This probed the geology

Introduction
The Strahov tunnel in Prague, commissioned in 1998 as part of the northern ring
road, exits at its lower portal in front of
Mrzovka hill. This is a physical barrier that
must be crossed by the highway before it
can link with the Barrandov bridge, the main
route to Bohemia, and the Czech border with
Germany. Construction of the 1 km-long
Mrzovka tunnel and the associated 2 kmlong Zlchov-Radlick road will complete
the city circle road in Smichov district.
The western tube at Mrzovka accommodates two traffic lanes and an exit lane
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Location of Mrzovka tunnel on the

Prague ring road.

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PRAGUE, CZECH REPUBLIC

79.2 m-deep ventilation shaft with lateral

connection were all included in the west
tube works. The total excavation volume
for the west tube is 176,729 cu m. Tunnel
for three-lane traffic is driven at 159 sq m
section, while two-lane is at 107 sq m, and
single-lane at 83 sq m. Where the tunnels
branch to form the two underground
junctions, the section increases to a maximum of 324 sq m. The underground fan
room is 207 sq m section.
The contract for the east tube from the
north portal was commenced by Metrostav
in early-2001.

Geology
Excavating the bench behind the
sidewall headings at the north end.

Atlas Copco Rocket Boomer 352

rockbolting in the north crown heading
of the west tube.

along the first section at a depth of 40 m

beneath the hill. It continued under the
next valley, where tall buildings have only
15-20 m cover to the crown of the main
tunnel. However, assumptions were made
for the final 300 m of alignment, where the
cover is 50 m. Because there are no high
rise buildings on this section, the pilot
drive was deemed to be unnecessary, and
was discontinued.
Sampling from side galleries, and cores
from exploration holes, revealed soft,
Prague black shale along the length of the
pilot tunnel, and so the planners went ahead
with designs for soft ground main tunnels,
using NATM techniques from both portals.
Monitoring of the pilot tunnel assisted in
the design of the excavation and support
system for the north end of the road tunnel.
Contracts were let in late-1998 for the
construction of the west tube, with
Metrostav winning the north section, comprising 60% of the work by volume, and
Subterra getting the remaining work from
the south portal. Six cross passages, transformer and pumping stations, and the

The bedrock along the route of the tunnels

was formed by sedimentation as part of the
north-east Ordovician Barrandian syncline,
which features a wide scale of alternating
pellitic and psamitic rocks. These are characterized by different degrees of weathering,
changes of direction and pitches of bedding
planes, and numerous tectonic fault zones.
The overlying formations of diluvial sediments comprise sandy loams to sandy clays,
with consistency varying from rigid to solid,
and made ground of varying depth. Where
these are weathered, there is crack porosity,
and the water table tends to penetrate
deeper. This is prevalent in cracked, steeply
bedded quartzites, or in fault zones. From
the northern portal, the alignment passes
through
Letna
shales
for
about
200 m, with an overburden of 5 m to 40 m,
then into more Letna shales with 16 m to
21 m cover. Between U Santosky and
Bieblova Streets, the tunnels pass through
Revnice quartzites with 20 m cover, and
then into Letna shales with flysch, before
diving under Pavi vrch where, in the exhaust
ventilation shaft position, the depth is 80 m.

North Portal
The north end of the tunnel had the benefit
of good geological information, and the
advantage of a pilot drive to follow.
Metrostav decided initially to drive a fullwidth top heading, and the first 120 m was
successfully mined in this fashion, commencing in January, 1999. However, the
amount of settlement measured on
Mrzovka Hill dictated a change in method
before passing under populated areas, and
the contractor opted for traditional NATM
side galleries, developed 35 m ahead of the
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PRAGUE, CZECH REPUBLIC

crown excavation. The temporary shotcrete

walls of the side galleries were removed 55 m
behind the faces, when the crown excavation had advanced some 20 m. The steel
arches, bolts, mesh and shotcrete of the
pilot drive were removed in the process.
Excavators were used in the shale, and
hydraulic hammers broke out the concrete.
When the faces ran into quartzite, which is
present in irregular quantities, two Atlas
Copco Rocket Boomer L2 C drillrigs and a
Boomer 352 were ready and available for
drill/blast operations. Up to 200 m of
drill/blast advance was planned. Face loading was generally by excavator into articulated dumptrucks, or by tracked loader on
back work.
The exposed face in the side galleries
was first shotcreted, and then rockbolts
were installed into holes drilled by one of
the Atlas Copco rigs. Four-strand lattice
girders were erected on the permanent
sidewalls, and three-strand girders on the
temporary inner walls. The heading was
then given a second coating of shotcrete.
Metrostav developed the three-lane
eastern tube from the north portal, again
using the sidewall drift method. To shorten
the construction time, some 90 m of right
sidewall drift was excavated from an
opening at cross passage No 5, and another
110 m was driven from cross passage
No 3. The left sidewall drift was excavated
in 15 m lengths. This was followed by
drilling and consolidation grouting of the
section passing under the built-up area.

Boodex System
An arch of 20-23 grouted umbrella holes
was maintained over the crown to protect
the stretches of tunnel that pass under surface buildings. These were installed by the
L2 C drillrigs using the Atlas Copco Boodex
system, a derivative of the more conventional Odex drilling system. To drill the
hole, a 90 mm Odex pilot bit with 123 mm
ex-centre drillbit was used, followed into
the hole by threaded 3 m-long sections of
115 mm perforated casing tube. 3 m-long
R38 extension rods allowed the hole to be
drilled and lined to full depth of 12 m or
15 m, when the Odex bit and extension steel
could be withdrawn, leaving the casing in
place. Pumping of the stiff water/cement
grout was carried out using a Craelius Unigrout 200-100E-01 pump at 5 bar pressure
through a hose with an expandable packer.
FACE DRILLING

Both of the Rocket Boomer L2 C drillrigs were adapted to Boodex drilling by

replacing the standard drifter feed by a
specially designed feed. The drifter shank
adapter was replaced by a special-length
Boodex adapter. The front and intermediate
drill steel supports were modified to accept
the 115 mm casing tube, and the rockdrill
cradle was equipped with a discharge head
to collect the rock cuttings. A hydraulic
cylinder moved the collector to one side to
facilitate the addition of casing tubes, and
other small modifications were made to the
hydraulic systems to match the new duty.
The drillrigs took an average of 3-5 min
to drill each 3 m length, and pipe addition
took another 10 min. The 3 m pipes were
chosen because they are light enough to be
manhandled, whereas longer pipes would
require lifting gear
Drilling was not always straightforward
because of the proliferation of other steel,
such as rockbolts and injection pipes,
many of which were installed in the pilot
drive, and not mapped. A 20-hole umbrella
generally took 48 h to drill and grout.

Plan of the Mrzovka tunnel in Prague.

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PRAGUE, CZECH REPUBLIC

South Portal

Rocket Boomer L2 C drilling the top

heading at the south face.

South portals were accessed by a

temporary tunnel beneath the ZlichovRadlicka road.

The whole 221 m-long section of the

western tube passing under the built-up
area was protected by 115 mm Boodex
spiles. According to Metrostav, these protection umbrellas significantly increased
ground stability, and reduced settlement.
On average, 18 pipes of 12 m or 15 m
length were installed in each umbrella,
with a 3 m overlap, using the modified
Rocket Boomer L2 C. Total installation
length of Boodex spiles in the western tube
was 5,746 m.
Some 175 m of the eastern tube passing
under the built-up area also required
Boodex umbrella protection, with 15 mlong pipes and 3 m overlap. With an estimated 18-20 pipes per umbrella, the total
length of spiles drilled in the eastern tube
was 4,375 m.
Convergence stations are installed at
15 m intervals throughout the drive, and
these are monitored daily.

Work from the South Portal commenced

with a roadheader. This was replaced by
a Rocket Boomer L2 C when the rock
quality changed.
However, because of habitation overhead, and a main collector sewer beneath,
progress was necessarily slow on the initial
76 sq m section. As they passed through a
60 m danger zone above the sewer with
just 6 m clearance, each round of 220 holes
in the top heading was drilled to only 1 m
depth in the 30-200 Mpa shale. They were
charged with packaged dynamite and
primed with millisecond delays, and blasting was restricted to between the hours of
07.00 and 21.00. Two rounds constituted
one unit of advance, and four blasts/day
were achieved. The invert of the 107 sq m
full-section tunnel cleared the crown of the
sewer by just one metre!
There are two positive aspects of this
rather unexpected situation: the improved
rock quality required less support, so the
shotcrete thickness was reduced from
35 cm to 20 cm and the weight of the fourstrand lattice girders was cut; and the profiling is much better than plan, with
overbreak averaging less than 1 sq m/m
against the contract allowance of 4.2 sq m/m
advance. A pattern of 10 x 3 m-long
Swellex rockbolts was installed, after shotcreting, every 2 m on advance.
Once the sewer was passed, the drillrig
resumed 2 m rounds until it reached the
position of the ventilation drivage, where a
connection was made with the 75 m-deep,
7.5 m-diameter surface shaft. Once the
junction position was reached, it was possible to open a second face, on which
Subterra used one of its existing fleet of
Rocket Boomer 352 drillrigs.
Subterra has since completed excavation of the single-lane tunnel branch B
from the south portal and the double-lane
section of the eastern tunnel, using the
roadheader as a main production tool.

Acknowledgements
Atlas Copco is grateful to Jiri Mosler of
Metrostav and Jan Vinter of Subterra, who
gave freely of their time for interviews.
Further information on the Mrzovka
project is available from the Prague office
of Atlas Copco by e-mail request to
jindrich.hummel@atlascopco.com
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AGATSUMA, JAPAN

Advanced Boom Control

Reduces Overbreak
Hot Debate
Joint venture partners Nishimatsu
and Morimoto recently collaborated
to settle one of the most debated issues surrounding the use of computerized drillrigs. The question is
whether the manual or automatic
mode for positioning and collaring
gets the best results. A test was set
up at the Agatsuma road tunnel in
Japan, where an Atlas Copco Rocket
Boomer L3 C-2B was operated in
both ABC Regular and ABC Total
mode over measured sections.
Predictably, the fully automatic mode
won the day, showing 11 cm less
overbreak. In a situation where the
cost of overbreak can be measured in
extra scaling, transportation and concrete, the value of ABC Total was
easily calculated. The conclusion is
that, in places where large overbreak
has been acceptable in the past, ABC
Total will produce a better profile
than ABC Regular by reducing dependency on rig operator skills.

Micro Benching
The 1.7 km-long Agatsuma road tunnel,
located in central Japan, around 120 km
north-west of Tokyo, was driven by
drill/blast in good quality rock. Built to
replace part of a road that will be flooded
by a dam, the tunnel connects Agatsuma
with Naganohara. Almost the whole length
is in fresh andesite, with a compressive
strength of 80-100 Mpa, and with minimal
water influx.
Tunnelling started in October, 2001 and
was completed in November, 2002. All
excavation was carried out using the
micro-benching method and conventional
drill and blast with an Atlas Copco Rocket
Boomer L3 C-2B, specially designed for
Japan.
Micro-benching, a popular method in
Japan, carries a top heading just a few
metres ahead of the bench, allowing the
roof to be fully supported before the bench
is advanced. Sometimes, two rounds are
taken in the top heading for every round in
FACE DRILLING

the bench, so drillrigs have to have good

boom extension in order to reach over the
bench to the top heading face. Also, the
rigs are generally specified with two
baskets, in order to handle the extra
movements involved. The method offers
all of the advantages of top heading and
bench techniques, without the need for
smaller rigs on the bench, and without any

Atlas Copco Rocket Boomer L3 C-2B

with ABC Total.

Map of Japan showing location of Agatsuma.

AGATSUMA

TOKYO

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Good quality rock (part of the study), mostly andesite,

with a compressive strength of 80100 MPa

Section of the 1.7 km-long Agatsuma

road tunnel.

Other rock not included in the study

necessity for ramp access between invert

and bench.
At Agatsuma, the Rocket Boomer
L3 C-2B rig was equipped with three
booms mounted with powerful COP 1838
rock drills, and two baskets to enable access
to the upper section of the tunnel face which
may be up to 90 sq m section.
The rig was equipped with the
Advanced Boom Control system in
the ABC Total version, which enables the
operator to switch between positioning and
drilling in the fully automatic or semiautomatic mode.
Using 14-ft feeds, the maximum hole
depth was 4 m without extension drilling.
The number of holes ranged between 144
and 152, depending on whether V-cut or
parallel hole cut was used, and the diameter
of the holes was 45 mm, with a spacing
along the periphery of about 50 cm.
The high penetration rates of more than
3m/min resulted in a drilling time of just
over one hour for each 2.2 m round drilled.

Where the test took place:

the 1.7 km tunnel at
Agatsuma, about 120 km
north west of Tokyo

Overbreak Reduced
An important consideration for the tunnellers was to keep the amount of
overbreak to a limit of 5 sq m, equal to
23 cm on the radius, in order to minimize
the amount of concrete that would be
needed to cast the secondary concrete shell
that gives the tunnel its lining and final
support.
To find the best way to achieve the
target, the Nishimatsu site manager
instructed his operators to alternate
between the manual and automatic modes
when positioning and collaring the holes.
In the manual mode, or ABC Regular, the
operators were able to guide the booms
and feeds with the aid of the computer
screen, which displayed an image of the
tunnel face, showing the location of each
blast hole, the position of the drillbit, and
the orientation of the feed.
In the fully-automatic mode, or ABC
Total, the operator simply monitored the

Quality Tunnelling
Contour control is a major ingredient in quality tunnelling, but, to get the best returns, it
is necessary to place every hole in the round with a high degree of accuracy. The
Advanced Boom Control (ABC) system on Atlas Copco drillrigs offers three levels:
Basic, Regular and Total, all designed to make life easier for the operator while producing quality tunnels for the owner.
ABC Basic has instrumentation for angle measurement with feed direction shown on
the display.
ABC Regular includes a guidance display for positioning the booms to a preselected
drilling pattern. The collaring point, hole direction and depth are all shown on the
screen. Completed holes are also shown, and each round is individually logged on a PC
card, including the number of holes, hole type and drilling time.
ABC Total gives completely automatic drilling, allowing the operator to simply
supervise the operations of the booms. The preselected drill plan and sequences are
shown on the screen, as well as individual holes, even if the operator chooses the semiautomatic mode or to position the feed manually.
Atlas Copco drillrigs are equipped with ergonomically designed, sound deadened
cabs, with excellent all-round visibility. They have both standing and seated positions
for the operator, and the display screens have sharp, well defined images, and are
colour adjustable.

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Portal of Agatsuma road tunnel in

central Japan.

process as the rig computer guided the

booms and feeds into position.
A comparison of the effect on overbreak
was conclusive. In the fully automatic mode,
the overbreak was found to average 11 cm
less than when manual mode was used. The
automatic mode also offered the opportunity
to drill longer rounds, when required.
Typical work cycle for a 2.2 m round
Minutes
Drilling of blast holes 150 x 2.2 m 75
Charging and blasting/slurry
60
Ventilation
10
Mucking of 148 cu m
80
Scaling and cleaning
30
Shotcrete 5 cm over 45 sq m
40
Bolting 13 units 3 m-long
40
Total time for a 2 m round
335
Rate of advance

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176 m/month

Substantial savings
Agatsuma project has special significance
as the first on-site test of manual and
fully automatic drilling in relation to
overbreak.
The 11 cm reduction in overbreak
resulted in 2.5 cu m less concrete being
needed for each metre of tunnel. With concrete costing USD150/cu m to place, a
saving of USD400 per metre was achieved.
This resulted in an overall saving of
USD650,000 for the entire tunnel length.
In addition to reducing overbreak, the
ABC Total, or fully automatic mode,
helped to reduce drilling time and consumption of drill bits and rods.
The client is naturally very pleased with
this performance, noting that the rig not
only gave a good return in terms of the
lower overbreak, but was also very economical in the consumption of spare parts.
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HONG KONG, CHINA

Controlling Overbreak in
Hong Kong
Computerization
Improves Efficiency
The use of new generation CAN-bus
drillrigs in Hong Kong has been monitored at two different jobsites. The
first is at Pak Shing Kok, where Atlas
Copco Rocket Boomer L2 C drillrigs
equipped with ABC Regular worked
for Hyundai-Kier; and the second is at
West Rail, where larger Rocket
Boomer WL3 C drillrigs worked for
Nishimatsu and Dragages. Despite
hard and abrasive rock in both
situations, good average penetration
was achieved, allied to economic
consumption of drillbits and rods.
Operator wages were reduced dramatically, thanks to computerization of
the drilling operation, and profiling
was as good as expected, given the
other variables involved.

Introduction
The development of Hong Kong as a major
southern gateway for China continues
apace. Integral to the overall plan is the
enlargement of the freight railway system to
handle the huge volumes of goods coming
through the container port, which is now the
largest in the world after Rotterdam. We
describe here two major railway tunnel contracts at which new generation Atlas Copco
Rocket Boomer drillrigs equipped with
CAN-bus control systems worked.

MTRC Pak Shing Kok Tunnels

The Hong Kong MTRC Pak Shing
Kok tunnels comprise a complex of five
interconnected tunnels driven as nine
tunnels totalling 6 km in length. The
tunnels have a cross-section of some
35 sq m and are located in crystalline
pyroclastic rocks, resulting in high bit
wear. For the drill and blast operations, the
contractor Hyundai-Kier Joint Venture
employed three Atlas Copco Rocket Boomer
L2 C drillrigs. These were two-boom rigs
with a CAN-bus based control system.
74

The rigs were equipped with ABC

Regular boom navigation system, with
which the operator guides the booms and
feeds to the correct positions using a preset
drill pattern presented on the display
screen in the cab of the drillrig. The feeds
can host up to 14 ft-long rods to provide a
maximum hole depth of 4.2 m.
The rock was hard and abrasive, but not
as brittle as regular hard crystalline
basement rock. As a result, expectations
for penetration would normally be on the
low side, and bit wear would be high.
However, the average penetration achieved
at Pak Shing Kok was in the range of
2.5 m/min, and the service lives of bits,
rods and shanks was around 400 m,
8-9,000 m, and 8-9,000 m respectively.
These results are considered as good,
taking into account the high penetration
rate.
A single operator controlled the two
booms on each machine, and the total
drilling time, including positioning, for a
70-hole, 4 m round was 1.5 to 2 h. As the
manual moving of the boom from one hole
position to the next generally took about
40 to 50 seconds, the operator was busy
with the levers for two thirds of the drilling
time. The tunnels are being concrete lined,
so it is very important to keep overbreak at
a low level (Fig 1 overleaf).

Rocket Boomer WL3 C drillrigs working

for Nishimatsu and Dragages at a
110 sq m face.

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HONG KONG, CHINA

West rail tunnel contract D & B 350

Hong Kong Underbreak (m)
(after shotcrete support)

Frequency

Frequency

West rail tunnel contract D & B 350

Hong Kong Overbreak (m)
(after shotcrete support)

Underbreak (m)

Overbreak (m)

Tunnel No 6 was the first to be excavated, and the objective was to keep
overbreak low by demanding smaller
margins than usual, and the consequence
was too much underbreak. Some of the
underbreak is explained by application of
too much shotcrete for primary support.
Certainly, better results with respect to
overbreak have been achieved on other
projects, but it always comes down to the
ambition of the management and the
incentive and skill of the labour.

West Rail Contract DB 350

The West Rail contract DB 350 included
a 5 km-long double-track tunnel located
in the Repulse bay formation, which
comprises mainly crystalline pyroclastic
rocks. The joint venture companies
Nishimatsu and Dragages split the tunnel
half each.
Nishimatsu used the new generation
Atlas Copco Rocket Boomer WL3 C CANbus drillrigs for face work. The tunnel
design, which was produced by the joint
venture, is a double-track single tube tunnel
with a cross-section of 110 sq m. A concrete
wall along the centre-line separates the two
tracks from each other. The two WL3 C
drillrigs had feeds long enough to handle
5.8 m holes. The drilled length of the
rounds varied generally from 5.0 to 5.8 m.
In poor rock, these long rounds were shortened. This is important to bear in mind
when overbreak is discussed later. The rigs
were equipped with ABC Total, which
moves the booms and feeds to new positions
automatically, after each hole is drilled.
FACE DRILLING

The two rigs were positioned side by

side at the tunnel face, and each drilled 77
holes of the total 154 holes for the 110 sq m
face, plus three 4 in holes for the parallel
cut. The contour holes were given a spacing
of 35 to 40 cm. Generally, all but the contour and the bottom holes were drilled in
the Total mode. The pull of each round
was about 90%. Two rounds per day, 25
days per month gave a production of 200220 m per month. If the perimeter profile
was free of protruding rock, automatic
drilling was also used for the contour holes.
The wear on drilling tools was the same
as for the MTRC tunnels described earlier,
with the exception of the bit life, which
was around 500 m. Here again, it can be
concluded that the CAN-bus rig treated the
drilling tools well.

Fig 1. Profile results at West Rail

tunnel contract D&B 350 chainage
1556 to 1997.

Control panel of the new Rocket

Boomer WL3 C.

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HONG KONG, CHINA

Rocket Boomer WL3 Cs used at West

Rail.

Fig 2. Profile results at contract 611,

MTRC.

One man operated the three-boom rig,

and when the Total mode was utilized the
booms had no downtime, even for shorter
rounds. The time for the drilling operation,
including setup, was in the range of
2-2.5 h, and the penetration rate for the
48 mm spherical button bits was
2.5 m/min. In cases where only one drillrig
was used at the face, the drilling of a full
round took 3.5 to 4 h.
Considering the length of the round,
with respect to the poorer rock quality,
overbreak could not match the result from
the MTRC tunnels. Without any splitting
on rock-classes, the results from 450 m of
tunnel are shown in Fig 2 below. Here, as
in the MTRC project, the drilling of the
contour holes starts 10 cm outside the

Over & Underbreak (m)

Contract 611, MTRC Hong Kong

Over and Underbreak

Overbreak
Underbreak

76

Tunnel 1-9

theoretical line, and the bottom holes

30 cm outside the theoretical line. What is
surprisingly encouraging, is that underbreak is found only in half the surveyed
sections and, where found, only small
quantities are registered. As the deviation
is a multiplication of 2x the length of the
hole, a 5.5 m-long hole can be expected to
deviate 50% more than a 4 m-long hole.
Consequently, the underbreak ought to be
more embarrassing than in the MTRC case.
Information on the rock quality provided by the contractor shows that almost all
excavation is in rock having a value higher
than 10, which can be considered as good.
Overbreak caused by geology should not
have been dominating in this case.

Conclusions
It is very important for machine suppliers
to have good working relationships with
experienced customers, as they, to some
extent, become partners in the development
of new equipment. Atlas Copco believes that
its new generation drillrigs are profitable tools
when chasing costs in tunnel construction.
Improvements, such as better drill steel
economy, savings on operator wages, and
higher utilization have resulted in a good
reception of the new series of drillrigs in
Hong Kong. While the results for overbreak
are not conclusive, they are favourable, and
there is no doubt that the higher accuracy
of the CAN-bus drillrigs is a contributing
factor.
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AUSTRIA, CENTRAL EUROPE

Removing Highway
Bottlenecks in Austria
Dualling the
Crossroads of Europe
With its position in the heart of
Central Europe, Austria serves as a
transportation hub for virtually any
business needing to move goods
across the continent. For traffic
between the Balkan States and the
north, or diagonally across Europe
from east to south, Austria presents
the shortest route. Indeed, the potential for traffic nuisance is such that
trucks are currently banned from its
highways during the night hours.
In its efforts to upgrade to full
European standards, Austria is building more dual carriageways, and
driving parallel tunnels for a number
of existing bi-directional tunnels
across the country. In the tunnels, the
latest in Atlas Copco technology is
being employed, including Rocket
Boomers, Swellex rockbolts and MAI
self drilling anchors. Such projects are
the parallel tunnels at Graebern and
Plabutsch, and a twin tube tunnel
project at Steinhaus, located near
Semmering.

Second Tube for Graebern

A new 2.148 km-long tube has been driven
parallel to the existing Graebern tunnel in
highly variable ground conditions. The
faces at either end were in different strata,
requiring a flexible approach to excavation
and support.
The contractors used Atlas Copco
Rocket Boomer drillrigs to excavate
around 1.5 km of tunnel is to standard
70 sq m section, 400 m of which was in
excavation class 7 with a reinforced shotcrete or concrete invert, requiring an
enlarged section of 78 sq m.
An oversize safety section in the center
of the alignment will provide a third lane
over a distance of 48 m, where vehicles
may park in an emergency, or possibly turn
around. They may also turn to enter a wide
cross passage leading to the second tube,
which is big enough for trucks.
FACE DRILLING

At the south end of the alignment,

where the rock was generally too soft for
blasting, an Atlas Copco two-boom Rocket
Boomer L2 C drilled holes for spiling and
bolting in the top heading, to enable
mechanical excavation. The area is intensively folded and faulted, with a mixture
of competent and incompetent rock. As
there was no glacial cover during the
last million years, glacial erosion did
not remove the highly tectonised and
incompetent parts present at the southern
portal.
The centre section of the top heading
was generally left in place as a safety
pillar, to support the tunnel face while
sectional lattice arches were installed at
1.0-1.2 m centres, together with rockbolts
and shotcrete. Part of the excavated face
was also temporarily secured by 12 m-long
self drilling anchors, which were grouted
in place. For systematic bolting, self
drilling or cement grouted anchors with
lengths of 4 m or 6 m were used.
When required, 25 mm-diameter, 4 mlong pipe spiles were set around the roof
profile in 45 mm-diameter holes drilled by
the Rocket Boomer L2 C. Any blastholes

Atlas Copco Rocket Boomer L2 C at

Graebern south face.

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AUSTRIA, CENTRAL EUROPE

Rock Support at Graebern Tunnel.

Rocket Boomer 352 S at Steinhaus

portal.

required were drilled using 45 mm Atlas

Copco Secoroc bits.
The top heading was followed by a
2.7 m-high bench and invert, which was
excavated some 60-80 m back from the
face, but sometimes slipped back to 150 m
behind the face.
The north end of Graebern features
biotite gneiss, a more-competent metamorphic sedimentary rock with a high amount
of quartz and feldspar. Predominantly, the
rock mass is jointed and faulted, and so
mostly decomposed and friable. Therefore,
spiling with pipes was often an absolute
necessity. In addition, Swellex 4 m-long
bolts were set in the roof at the face as
immediate support.
Regular support comprised 15 cm of

shotcrete with one layer of wire mesh and

4 m-long rockbolts. If spiling was required,
lattice arches were erected, and shotcreted
in place. A three-boom semi-automatic
Rocket Boomer L3 C performed the support drilling duties at the north end, in
addition to blasthole drilling.
Drilling of a full round of approximately
130 x 2 m-deep holes in the top heading
took an hour, in addition to a half-hour
for charging and blasting. Blasting agents
were dynamite and cartridged slurry, with
19 intervals of electronic detonators with
millisecond delays at 80 milliseconds per
step.
The drilling rounds were set up using an
array of seven lasers to establish a perfect
profile.

Steinhaus at Semmering
The Steinhaus tunnel is on the B306
Vienna to Bruck road, which passes
through Semmering, a favourite skiing
resort for the Viennese. The B306 is being
upgraded, and will form part of the new S6
highway. This will connect with the St
Michael interchange on the section of the
A9 Trans-European Highway between the
main centres of Graz and Linz.
The tunnel is twin-tube and 1.5 kmlong, on a double curving alignment that
takes it into the side of the valley in which
the village of Steinhaus is located. It was
constructed by Bilfinger Berger for the
Austrian highways authority.
The rock quality is variable, generally
soft and non-glaciated, comprising chalk,
phyllite, calcite and quartzite, with a maximum cover of 60 m.

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The tunnels accommodate a two-lane

highway in each direction. There are three
cross-passages, with the middle one having
a large cross-section to facilitate the
switching of trucks between tubes in
emergency.
The full 80 sq m section of each main
drive was achieved with top heading,
bench and invert excavations. The faces
passed beneath some village houses with
around 50 m cover, and two blast vibration
monitoring stations were set up.
Work at Steinhaus commenced at the
west portal with a 47 m-long central pilot
tunnel, within which the pillar between the
two main tubes was cast using selfcompacting concrete. The separation over
the first 50 m of alignment was 2 to 4 m,
increasing progressively to 60 m at the
halfway mark. The rock pillar on the
second 50 m of drive was anchored using
pre-stressed bolts, tightened by plates on
both sides.
The drillrig fleet comprised three lateseries Atlas Copco Rocket Boomer 352s,
and one newer Rocket Boomer L2 C. They
spent 80% of their time drilling for rock
reinforcement because, generally speaking,
only 10-20 blast-holes were required in the
faces of the top headings.
The faces, which were mechanically
excavated, were secured by up to nine
16 ft-long self drilling anchors with mortar
injection. Roof and side support was
achieved mainly with grouted rebars and
self drilling rockbolts from Atlas Copco
MAI, and five MAI M400 water mixing
pumps were used for grouting.
In order to maintain reasonable underfoot conditions, a temporary shotcrete
invert reinforced with steel mesh was laid
in the top headings, every 4 or 5 arches on
advance. Drainage holes were drilled in the
face whenever necessary. Usually, three or
four arches were set at 1.5 m intervals in
each face during a 24 h cycle of three
shifts.
At the 90 m mark on the south drive, a
20 m-high quartzite runner was encountered, which, fortunately for the tunnellers,
proved to be dry. The drillrig stood
away, drilling over the face and into the
cavity.
Some 30 cu m of 8 mm concrete was
then pumped through the drillholes, using
one of the shotcrete jumbos. Advance over
a 10 m stretch beneath the filled cavity was
protected by arches of 20-30 spiles made
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of 51 mm x 8 m-long R32 pipe installed at

2 m increments.
Once into more competent ground, the
drillrigs were able to deliver 80-90
holes/round in the top headings, drilled
to depths of 1.5-1.7 m. Blasting was by
millisecond and long delay non-electric
detonators and encapsulated slurry main
charge.
The bench followed at between 90 m
and 220 m behind the face, where the temporary invert was ripped out by an excavator with hydraulic hammer.
A concrete pump was stationed at each
bench as a convenient way of pumping
shotcrete past the ramp position, from
where a mixer truck transported it to the
face jumbo.
Self drilling rockbolts have become
very popular in recent years, and are now
used in a number of different applications,
for both surface and underground drilling.
In tunnels, their primary use is for advance
support of extremely friable rock, or in formations where the drill hole will collapse
before a normal rockbolt can be put in
place.
The bolt is made up of five essential
parts: a threaded bolt, a single-usage
drill bit, a connection casing, a screw plate
and a nut. The rockbolts are available
in standard lengths, by the metre from
2-6 m-long, with special customerdesigned lengths of up to 12 m.

Breakthrough is celebrated at
Steinhaus.

79

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AUSTRIA, CENTRAL EUROPE

Atlas Copco Rocket Boomer L3 C

drilling at the south bench at
Plabutsch.

Repeat Performance at
Plabutsch
The alignment of the first Plabutsch tunnel,
built in the early 1980s, is straight over
most of its length from the north portal,
turning through 90 degrees to exit in an
easterly direction at the south end, some
4 km from the airport. The tunnel has a
continuous gradient of 1%.
The new parallel tunnel was constructed
from both ends by a joint venture of Ostu
Stettin Leoben and Hinteregger Salzburg
over a period of four years Summer, 2003,
allowing two years for excavation, one
year for concreting, and one year for
equipment installation.
The new tunnel runs along the west side
of the existing tube at a spacing of 50 m,

and is connected to it by pedestrian crosspassages at 400 m intervals. Blasting

restrictions limited vibration could have
affected the traffic tunnel, and the maximum round allowable was 4 m.
Both ends were advanced as top headings with 1.2-2.5 m following benches and
a drain at one metre below floor datum.
The top headings, when in sound rock,
were drilled with a pattern of 45 x 45 mm
holes using ballistic bits. Four Atlas
Copco drillrigs handled all of the drilling
requirements. These were multi-task
machines equipped with computer assisted
hole positioning and semi-automatic drilling
programmes.
At the south portals, some 700 m of cut
and cover constructed as part of the 1980
contract has been used as the west car-

Longitudinal profile and plan of the

Plabutsch tunnel.

80

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AUSTRIA, CENTRAL EUROPE

Installing 4 m-long Swellex rockbolts

from the Boomer basket at Plabutsch.

riageway exit from the natural tunnel. The

northbound traffic crossed over from the
bi-directional natural tunnel to the cut and
cover section at the portals to emerge in
the correct carriageway of the motorway.
This section of the original tunnel was
closed so that it could be utilized by construction traffic for the duration of the
contract. Another 600 m of cut and cover
was constructed to connect the existing cut
and cover with the natural portal. This
extended cut-and-cover hides the highway
from the Schloss St Martin, an historic
castle which overlooks the site.
It took a total of ten umbrella-drilled
arches using an Atlas Copco 352 S to
establish the first 120 m of the south drive.
Drilling at the south face was then taken
over by a new Atlas Copco L3 C drillrig,
the first of two such machines ordered for
the Plabutsch contract. The L3 C is
equipped with automatic boom control and
achieved a smoother tunnel profile.
Blasting was by 18 separate timing
intervals of millisecond delays because of
their finer controllability. This resulted in
less vibration and gave a good profile.
Around 250 kg of dynamite was used to
backprime the holes, using 35 mm sticks
on the bulk charge and 20 mm sticks in the
contour holes. Stemming was not required
on these loading ratios because the holes
were little more than half-primed. Steel
arches were erected when required but, for
most of the time, a combination of Swellex
and rebar grouted bolts with mesh and
shotcrete was sufficient.
The north face ground was soft and friable, and the main problem was to keep it
in place while supports were installed. An
FACE DRILLING

Atlas Copco 353 S Boomer drillrig was

utilised to install R32 threaded self-drilling
3 m-long extension rockbolts into the face.
A 15 m string took around 12 minutes to
install, and the completed unit was grouted
into place using a fast setting sand/cement
mix. Three such anchors were positioned
to stabilize the centre section of the face,
and a 5 m overlap was maintained. The
face was also lightly shotcreted as a further
precaution against spalling after each
round was cleared.
The top heading excavation was supported using 4 m-long Swellex bolts
immediately after blasting, and these were
expanded into full contact with the rock
using an onboard pump. The Swellex bolts
were installed just in time to stop the roof
peeling back, and were sometimes also
used in the face to secure hangings while
safety work was carried out.
Once the face was mucked out, another
eleven 6 m-long grouted rebar bolts were
set in the crown using bolting equipment
mounted on the Rocket Boomer basket.
The north end was advanced on a 90 sq m
section, with the first 600 m in dolomite.
The drive passed beneath the Thalgraben
valley at the 700 m point with just 12-15 m
ground cover, and then entered a difficult
geological section comprising schist, which
exhibited squeezing characteristics, and
steel lattice arches were erected as required
at intervals of 1.0 m, 1.3 m, and 1.7 m.

Acknowledgements
Atlas Copco is grateful to the contractors
for facilitating the site visits on which
these articles are based.
81

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KEMI, FINLAND

Rapid Development at Kemi

Chrome Mine
Going Underground
Ore reserves at Outukumpu Chrome
Oys Kemi chrome mine are abundant, and the efficiency of the nearby
Tornio smelter is enhanced by its
proximity to both the mine and harbour facilities. When surface deposits
depleted, it was decided to switch to
underground mining, where intensive
use will be made of information
technology to optimize the overall
mining and processing operation.
Atlas Copco drillrigs and rockbolters,
equipped with RCS rig control
system, using Secoroc drill steel and
bits, and installing Swellex rockbolts,
are underpinning production and
development, while helping provide
the information on which mill output
quality depends.

Ore Production
Production in the open pit will be phased
out over the next few years as the underground mine comes on stream, and closure
should take place in 2007.
The ore at Kemi is classified as two
main types: fine concentrate type, and
upgraded lumpy ore type. Suitable volumes of a given ore type are selectively
mining according to a schedule agreed
with the process plant.
Ore grade control in the underground
mine involves intensive wire line diamond
core drilling, to determine boundaries and
qualities of specific ore types. A Craelius
Diamec 264 APC drill rig carries out 12 km
of coring each year. Drill sections are
established every 10 m and downhole
survey is standard procedure, using a
Maxibore system. Based on the drill hole
data, a 3D model of the orebody is created
and used as a basis for production planning.
OMS-logg data is fed to the Drillmap
program to define the yields and Cr2O3
content of upgraded lumpy ore. Image
analysis and point loading index measurements are used to differentiate fine concentrate ore types on the basis of grain size
and hardness.
82

The geologists train the loader operators

to identify ore types and waste so that,
should the ore arriving at the process plant
not meet the specification for the blast
being loaded, the operator can alter the
material to be loaded.
Each ore blast is treated selectively at
the concentrator, in order to minimize feed
variation and maximize process stability.

Atlas Copco Rocket Boomer L2 C is

used for development.

Underground Infrastructure
The main decline starts at a portal in the
footwall side of the pit, at about 100 m
below the rim. The decline is mostly 8 mwide x 5.5 m-high, to accommodate passing vehicles. It descends at 1:7 to a depth
of 600 m at the base of the hoisting shaft,
and connects with several intermediate
sublevels. The decline is asphalted
throughout most of its length.
There is also a 5,000 cu m repair shop
for open pit equipment at the 115 m level,
and a larger 14,000 cu m workshop at the
350 m level for the underground mobile
equipment fleet. A huge 23,000 cu m main
workshop is planned for the 500 m level.
The main pumping station is located at
the 350 m level, and has pumping capacity
of 2 x 250 cu m/h. The slurry-type pumps,
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KEMI, FINLAND

80m3/s

40m3

/s

Kemi underground mine simplified

long section.

70m3/s
FAR2

EAR4

EAR3

115 Repair shop

Final pit bottom
Trial stoping area

277

Backfill raise

275
350 Pump station
2002 Trial stope

300
350 Repair shop
450 Expl. storage

450
475
500

500 Pump station

550
600

580 Pumpstation

Crusher

with mechanical seals, pump the unsettled

mine water to the surface with a total head
of 360 m. Two other dewatering pumping
stations are located at the 500 m and 580 m
levels.
The crusher station at the 560 m level is
equipped with a 1,000 t/h Nordberg gyratory crusher. This is fed from two sides by
vibrating feeders from separate 8 m-diameter main ore passes from the 500 m level,
and from one side by a plate feeder, to
which the ore can be dumped from the
550 m level. A 40 t travelling gantry crane
services the entire crusher house. Crushed
ore gravitates onto a conveyor in a tunnel
below the crusher for transport to the shaft
loading pockets 500 m away.

Shafts
Some 1.5 km of raise boring was required
for ventilation purposes, with intake at
4 m-diameter and exhausts at 3.5 mdiameter. In summer, fresh air is drawn
into the workings down the main decline
and through the intake, and exits through
the exhaust shafts located at the extremities of the orebody. In winter, the central
ventilation shaft becomes the only intake,
and air is heated on its way into the
mine. It is then exhausted, both up the
decline, and through the exhaust shafts.
Contractor NCC raise bored the first
backfill raise.
The main shaft was sunk in two stages,
from surface to the 300 m level, and then
on to final depth at the 600 m level.
Drillcon Raise AB core drilled the pilot
hole at 76 mm, and then reamed in three
stages to 280 mm using DTH hammers. A
raise borer then back reamed the hole to
2.44 m diameter, following which crews
FACE DRILLING

from contractor YIT slashed the shaft to

5.5 m diameter in 4 m lifts.
Ten 2.2 m x 20 mm cement grouted
rebars were installed to support each metre
of shaft, with 8 cm of steel fibre reinforced
shotcrete and a 2 cm protective layer of
shotcrete without fibres. The shaft is furnished with skip and man riding cage,
counterweight, and a separate service cage.
The 70 m-high x 11 m-wide x 11.4 mlong main shaft head frame, with ABB
friction winder, commenced ore production in Autumn, 2003.

Underground Production
Mining sublevels with 5 m x 5 m cross
sections were established by NCC at 25 m
vertical intervals, using two Atlas Copco
Rocket Boomer L2 C drillrigs equipped
with 1838 ME rock drills.

The cabin and the computer control

system with double joystick operation
helps high productivity.

83

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KEMI, FINLAND

Rock Reinforcement

With the Boltec LC and Swellex Mn12

rockbolts operators at Kemi mine are
installing more than 80-90 bolts/shift.

84

For 2003, the mine took over the drifting operation. Rounds of 60-80 holes
5.5 m-deep take about 2 hours to drill,
charge and prime.
An emulsion charging truck with elevating platform and Atlas Copco GA15
compressor provides fast and efficient
explosives delivery. Pipe charges were
originally used for the profile holes, but
these were progressively replaced by
measured amounts of slurry.
Some 600 m/month of sublevels was
mined, and contractors completed 30 km
of tunnels. The footwall granite is very
competent, but much rock reinforcement is
required in the weaker host rock, where
all drives are systematically rock bolted,
and secured with steel fibre reinforced
shotcrete.
The new Atlas Copco Rocket Boomer
L2 C purchased by the mine is equipped
with Rig Remote Access (RRA) option in
order to work in real-connection with the
mine communications network, facilitated
by the Rig Control System (RCS). RRA
also allows Atlas Copco to monitor and
evaluate the drillrig systems from
its HQ in Orebro, and assist with
troubleshooting.
The mine is working two shifts/day, five
days/week. The planned nominal capacity
is 2.7 million t/y of ore, which allows for
increased ferro-chrome production at
Tornio when the smelting operation is
expanded.

Swellex Mn12 2.4 m-long bolts are used

for support in ore contact formations. These
are being installed at a rate of 80-90 bolts/
shift using a new Atlas Copco Boltec LC rig,
which is returning drilling penetration rates
of 3.2 to 4 m/min. The RCS controlled
Boltec LC rig mounts the latest Swellex
HC1 pump, for bolt inflation at 300 bar
pressure, and reports progress on the
operators screen.
When Swellex was first introduced at
Kemi, the mine and Atlas Copco got
together over proving trials. The Swedish
Corrosion Institute was employed to evaluate the potential for corrosion, and came to
the conclusion that the application of shotcrete was beneficial to bolt life, with no
significant internal or external corrosion
expected in the first 50 years.
Then Swellex Mn12 2.4 m-long bolts
were installed in a damaged crosscut at
Kemi to study their efficiency in specific
conditions, while the performance of the
Boltec LC bolting rig was evaluated at the
Kvantorp test mine.
At the same time, Atlas Copco was
developing an intelligent pump to ensure
the perfect installation of Swellex bolts.
The new HC1 hydraulic pump is robust,
simple, and with low maintenance cost.
Coupled to an intelligent system, it reaches
the 300 bar pressure level quickly, and
maintains it for the minimum time for
perfect installation. Combined with the
rigs RCS system, the pump can confirm
the number of bolts successfully installed
and warn of any problems with inflation.
The Boltec rig with the new HC1 pump
has installed more than 22,000 Swellex
Mn12 bolts in 12 months an exceptional
performance!
A series of slip-pull tests carried
out throughout the mine proved the
strong anchorage capacity of Swellex
Mn12, with best results in the orebody
obtained from 37 mm-diameter holes,
while 35 mm-diameter was better for
the softer talc-carbonate and mylonite
zone.

Acknowledgements
Atlas Copco is grateful to the mine
management at Kemi, for their help and
assistance in arranging the site visit and
reading draft.
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STOCKHOLM, SWEDEN

Stockholm Gets Its Southern

Link Road
Completing the Ring
The population of Stockholm, capital
city of Sweden, is expanding by 20,000
each year and has already reached the
2 million mark. This has been accompanied by a steady increase in traffic,
with 130,000 vehicles/day fighting
their way around the existing section
of the proposed ring road, and 160,000
vehicles/day passing through the city
centre.
The Stockholm Road Plan calls for
a 6 km-long centre ring road; a western link, of which four short sections
have been completed and the
remainder will require 8 km of tunnels; and the southern link, or Sodra
Lanken, which has been under construction for the Swedish National
Road Administration. The rock excavation works on Sodra Lanken were
completed in late-2002, and the link
will be opened for traffic on 24th
October, 2004. Atlas Copco Rocket
Boomer rigs were used throughout,
drilling holes for blasting, rockbolts,
and pregrouting.

Southern Link
Sodra Lanken features 16.6 km of rock
tunnels in total, and is the largest road
tunnel system ever built in Sweden. The
budget for the link road was $800 million,
which represents a large slice of the $5 billion that has been set aside to cure
Stockholms transportation problems. The
project is financed by loans that are guaranteed by the Swedish government.
The new route is an urban motorway,
and is part of the national road network. Its
design speed is 70 km/h, except on some
of the access and exit ramps where this is
reduced to 50 km/h. The lanes are 3.5 m
wide, with a 1 m-wide hard shoulder on
the left of each carriageway and a 2 mwide shoulder on the right. The steepest
gradient is 5% on the main carriageways,
and 6% on the ramps.
The radius is at least 300 m where the
design speed is 70 km/h, with a minimum
radius of 140 m where the design speed is
FACE DRILLING

50 km/h. The permitted vehicle height is

4.5 m, and the clearance under signs and
fans is 4.8 m.
Ventilation is by exhaust towers at the
main portals, with jet fans to move the air
within the tunnels. Improvements in the
efficiency of catalytic exhausts since the
tunnels were first designed have led to a
reduction in the number of exhaust towers
from four to two. The tunnels have

Elevating cab on XL3 C gives a

commanding view.

85

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STOCKHOLM, SWEDEN

leading to a harbour loading point. Most of

the 2 million cu m of excavated rock
were recycled, and exported by barge for
consumption.
More than 50,000 units of 3 m-long and
4 m-long cement-grouted rockbolts were
installed, mainly in the roof of the tunnels.
The holes for these bolts were generally
drilled by the face drillrigs.

Contracts

One of Selmers Atlas Copco Rocket

Boomer XL3 Cs at work.

waterproof concrete ceilings suspended by

stainless steel bolts, and the rock walls are
left bare wherever possible, or given a
coating of shotcrete. 300 CCTV cameras
are being installed to monitor vehicular
activity within the tunnels.

Granite Precautions
Sodra Lanken comprises two parallel
5.5 km-long, 18 m-wide three-lane tunnels
with cross-sectional area of 100 sq m.
There are also crosspassages at 100 m
intervals, a number of access and exit tunnels, and two major intersections located
underground.
The tunnels were constructed in competent crystalline Precambrian granite and
gneiss, using controlled drill/blast methods. Two major environmental problems
that had to be overcome were the vibration
from blasting, and the control of water
seepage. The tunnels were driven in a
heavily populated area, and it was
extremely important not to worry residents
with noise or vibration, and not to dewater
the strata unduly because the water table is
particularly sensitive. Granite transmits
both blasting vibration and drilling noise,
so blasting was constrained within the
period 07.00 to 22.00 each weekday, and
was forbidden at weekends. Drilling noise
was limited to an exceptionally low
25 dBA at all times.
As a means of avoiding unnecessary
distress in the locality, some 70 apartments
were made available for rehousing residents while the tunnels passed close to, or
beneath, their homes.
In order to limit the construction road
traffic, a crusher was installed within the
tunnel complex with a conveyor system
86

Construction has been undertaken in three

major contracts, SL 01 and SL 02 by NCC,
and SL 03 by Selmer. Selmer removed
some 700,000 cu m of rock to form 8.3 km
of tunnels, and applied 12,000 cu m of
shotcrete and installed 25,000 grouted
rockbolts. Around 500,000 m of grout
holes were drilled, into which 3,000 t of
cement grout was injected, and some
8,000 cu m of concrete was placed.
NCC employed five large drilling
jumbos and one smaller machine on the
job. Overburden ranged between 5 m and
20-30 m. NCC also constructed five underground bridges where different legs of the
road cross over each other. These were
generally opened using pilot tunnels,
which were then excavated to create chambers in which the bridges were built. One
of these underground bridges, at the
Hammarby end of the tunnel, has a span
of 35 m with only 3.5 m ground cover.
There are also two 1.2 m-diameter raisebored ventilation holes, and a third at
2.1 m-diameter.
A total of 140 people were employed at
Sodra Lanken, 65 working rock, 40 on
concrete and 35 staff.

Waterproofing
The roof was scaled both mechanically and
by hand. In exceptional circumstances, the
face was shotcreted. The roof was shotcreted, with 40 mm of fibre-reinforced mix
followed by 20 mm of unreinforced mix,
and the sides were shotcreted when necessary. There was a large-capacity shotcrete
jumbo at each site for this work. The
amount of shotcreting increased from that
originally planned, because areas that had
to be sealed using foam needed a shotcrete
shell for waterproofing.
Integration of grouting work was difficult, because the depth of pregrouting was
restricted to 20 m with a 5 m overlap, so
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STOCKHOLM, SWEDEN

advance was limited to 15 m increments.

The maximum span at the junctions was
28 m.
A short length of tunnel through shallow ground had to be jet grouted from
above, after investigations from the pilot
drive revealed rock of insufficient strength
for conventional opening. Because of its
high visibility, the surface work attracted
adverse attention. Faced with a similar
problem on a second stretch of shallow
tunnel, the main contractor elected to
freeze the ground from within the tunnel,
rather than suffer the consequences and
constraints of working from the surface. A
Norwegian specialist contractor was called
in for this work, following success at a
similar job at Oslofjord.

Drilling
The blastholes and rockbolt holes were
drilled at 48 mm-diameter, and the grouting holes at 64 mm.
The three Atlas Copco Rocket Boomer
drillrigs working for NCC were fitted with
the MWD measure while drilling system,
which allows hole depths to be adjusted
during drilling if ground conditions
change. The booms on these rigs were also
set up for fast positioning, taking only 20
seconds to move from hole to hole.
On the SL 03 contract, Selmer was
working under 8-35 m overburden, for
which the noise limit was set at 55 dBA
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during daytime, 25 dBA during sleeping

hours, and 35 dBA during weekend daytime. Blasting used a low-fume slurry,
which was pumped into the holes by an
automatic charging truck, and primed
using Nonel detonators.
There were six Atlas Copco drillrigs
employed on this section, all drilling
5 m-deep rounds and up to 4 m-long
rockbolt holes. The objective was to drill
four rounds in every face each week, but
repetitive grouthole drilling impacted
upon this.
Selmer was allowed to drill 25 m grout
holes with a 7 m overlap, and the rock
quality was excellent. The rigs drilled 32 x
25 m grout holes in 16 hours. Some
737,000 m of drilling for blasting was
undertaken, and another 210,000 m was
drilled for grouting. Residents were
advised 30 minutes ahead of blasting by a
mini-call system, and some 12 rounds/day
were blasted. It is claimed that drilling
noise can be detected within a 200 m
radius, and can be irritating when within
100 m radius. Blast noise can be heard up
to 800 m away.

Layout of Sodra Lanken tunnel

complex.

Acknowledgements
Atlas Copco is grateful to the Swedish
National Road Administration for permission to publish this article and to contractors Selmer and NCC for their help and
assistance at site and with proof reading.
87

DRILLRIG SPECIFICATION

Min 1300
Max 1700
1300

Rocket Boomer S1 L

260
13450 (BMH 2837)

Direct controlled hydraulic tunnelling and

mining rig for low roof heights.
For cross sections up to 29m.

Hole blowing kit, with 2x20 l air receiver

Big hole drilling kit
Rock drill lubrication warning kit
Extension drilling set BSH 110 (only for BMH 2000)
Automatic boom lubrication system, rear part of boom
Electronic lookout indicator FAM1 or FAM2
Exhaust catalyser
Fire suppression system ANSUL
Alternative roof stops; min 1500 mm, max 1700 mm
Guards to prevent start of tramming with jacks down,
slide beam out or roof up

5475

Specially designed drill rig for drifting, crosscuts, and

roof holes in very narrow and low drifts and tunnels.
Tramming height only 1.30 m
Direct controlled drilling system with anti-jamming
function RPCF (Rotation Pressure Controlled Feed
force)
COP 1838 rock drill with modern double reflex
dampening for high speed drilling and excellent drill
steel economy
BMH 2800 heavy-duty aluminium hydraulic feed with
double bottom for high torsional resistance
BUT 28 heavy-duty boom for direct, fast and accurate
positioning between holes
Sturdy, articulated carrier with four wheel drive for
easy manoeuvring in narrow tunnels and drifts
Basic rig includes telescopic FOPS-approved protective
roof, fixed seat, water booster pump, cable reel, and
work lights

Main optional equipment

Main specifications
Rocket Boomer S1L
Rock drill
Feed
Boom
Drilling system
Length (with BMH 2837)
Width
Height roof up
roof down
Turning radius
Weight

88

Drillrigs2.indd 2

1 x COP 1838ME/COP 1838 HF

1 x BMH 2831 - BMH 2840
1 x BUT 28
DCS 18 - S1 L
13450 mm
2480 mm
1700 mm
1300 mm
5600/2900 mm
12500 kg

7520
Coverage area (with 2 look-out angle)

Visit www.facedrilling.com for more information

FACE DRILLING

2004-02-23, 18:23:07

DRILLRIG SPECIFICATION

1985

700

Rocket Boomer 104

ROCKET
BOOMER 104

9710 (BMH 2831)

Direct controlled hydraulic tunnelling drill rig

with one BUT 4 boom and COP 1838 rock drill.
For high speed drilling in small tunnels up to
20 m
.

Boomer 104 with COP 1432 or COP 1238 rock drills

Main optional equipment

Hydraulic feeds BMHE 2000 and BMHS 2000
Hydraulic drill steel gripper BSH 110 for extension drilling
(only for BMH 2800)
FAM 104 electronic look-out indicator
FOPS-approved cabin
Big hole drilling kit
Hole blowing kit with external air
Rock drill lubrication warning kit
Exhaust catalyser
ANSUL fire suppression system
Electrical system 1000 v, direct start only

4720

Specially designed drill rig for drifting, crosscuts, and

roofholes. Compact transport width of 1.22 m
Direct controlled drilling system with anti-jamming
function RPCF (Rotation Pressure Controlled Feed
force)
COP 1838 rock drill with modern double reflex
dampening for high speed drilling and excellent drill
steel economy
BMH 2800 heavy-duty aluminium hydraulic feed with
double bottom for high torsional resistance
BUT 4 heavy-duty boom for direct, fast and accurate
positioning
Sturdy, articulated carrier with four wheel drive for
easy manoeuvring in narrow tunnels and drifts
Basic rig includes telescopic FOPS-approved protective
roof, cable reel, water booster pump, and work lights

Other versions

Main specifications
Rocket Boomer 104
Rock drill
Feed
Boom
Drilling system
Length (with BMH 2831)
Width
Height roof up
roof down
Turning radius
Weight

FACE DRILLING

Drillrigs2.indd 3

1 x COP 1838ME
1 x BMH 2825 - BMH 2837
1 x BUT 4
DCS 18 - 104
9710 mm
1220 mm
2685 mm
1985 mm
4400/2539 mm
12500 kg

4410
4760
Coverage area (with 2 look-out angle)
Typical min. drift width 1.8 m
Visit www.facedrilling.com for more information
89

2004-02-23, 18:23:10

DRILLRIG SPECIFICATION

2100

2800

Rocket Boomer 281

11700 (BMH 2840)

Direct controlled hydraulic tunnelling drill rig

with one BUT 28 boom and COP 1838 rock
drill. For high speed drilling in cross sections
up to 31m.

Boomer 281 with COP 1432 or COP 1238 rock drills.

Rocket Boomer/Boomer 281-1B with one service
platform HL 210
Rocket Boomer/Boomer 281-L low-built versions,
tramming height 1.73 m

Main optional equipment

Telescopic feed BMHT 2800
Hydraulic drill steel gripper BSH 110 for extension drilling
(only on BMH 2800)
FAM electronic look-out indicator
FOPS-approved cabin
Big hole drilling kit
Hole blowing kit with external air
Water reel
Water mist flushing
Rock drill lubrication warning kit
Automatic boom lubrication system, rear part of boom
Manual lubrication system
Exhaust catalyser
ANSUL fire suppression system
Electrical system 1000v, direct start only

6080

Designed for drifting, crosscuts, and roofholes.

Compact transport width of 1.65 m
Direct controlled drilling system with anti-jamming
function RPCF (Rotation Pressure Controlled Feed
force)
COP 1838 rock drill with modern double reflex
dampening for high speed drilling and excellent drill
steel economy
BMH 2800 heavy-duty aluminium hydraulic feed with
double bottom for high torsional resistance
BUT 28 heavy-duty boom for direct, fast and accurate
positioning
Sturdy, articulated carrier for high mobility and stable
set up. Four-wheel drive, power steering, fail-safe
brakes and central lubricated chassis
Basic rig includes telescopic FOPS-approved protective
roof, cable reel, work lights, water booster pump, and
pump unloading function for easier start with low
voltage

Other versions

Main specifications
Rocket Boomer 281
Rock drill
Feed
Boom
Drilling system
Length (with BMH 2840)
Width
Height roof up
roof down
Turning radius
Weight

90

Drillrigs2.indd 4

1 x COP 1838ME/COP 1838HF

1 x BMH 2831 - BMH 2849
1 x BUT 28
DCS 18 - 280
11700 mm
1700 mm
2800 mm
2100 mm
4400/2800 mm
9300 kg

5690
6110
Coverage area (with 2 look-out angle)
Typical min. drift width 2.7 m
Visit www.facedrilling.com for more information
FACE DRILLING

2004-02-23, 18:23:10

DRILLRIG SPECIFICATION

Rocket Boomer L1 C

3010

www.atlascopco.com

L1 C

L1 C

14220 (BMH 6816)

Rig Control System (RCS) with interactive operator

control panel with full-colour display of the computerbased drilling system. Autocollaring and anti-jamming
protection
COP 1838 rock drill with modern double reflex
dampening for high speed drilling and excellent drill
steel economy
Integrated diagnostic system can immediately identify
faulty electronic components
Advanced Boom Control ABC assists the operator to
achieve accurate drill hole location and improve the
quality of the drilling by optimising the drilling pattern
and reducing costly overbreak
PC-card for transfer of data and for service engineers to
store preferred drill settings
Modular design of electronic and mechanical
components
Ergonomic cabin as optional, reduces noise level below
80 dB(A)
Heavy-duty aluminium hydraulic feeds with double
bottom for high torsional resistance
BUT 35 heavy-duty booms for direct, fast and accurate
positioning between holes. New powerful feed rotation
unit and increased coverage. Improved linkage in main
boom joints and new axial bearings in all boom joints
Sturdy, articulated carrier with four wheel drive for
easy manoeuvring in narrow tunnels and drifts,
powered by low emission, water-cooled diesel engine
Basic rig includes telescopic FOPS-approved protective
roof, adjustable operators control panel, fixed seat,
hydraulic driven compressor and water booster pump,
cable reel, and work lights.

Main optional equipment

Telescopic feed BMHT 6800-series (not with ABC)
Hydraulic drill steel support BSH 110
Rod Adding System RAS, max 18+12 ft
Rod Handling System RHS for 6 rods, incl. RAS and BUT 35SL
Automatic boom lubrication system, rear part of boom
Advanced Boom Control - ABC available in three levels
FOPS-approved cabin
Additional operators control panel
Alternative mounting heights of cabin or protective roof
Hole blowing kit, with 80 l air receiver
Water mist flushing with external water and air supply
Rock drill lubrication warning kit
Exhaust water scrubber 95 l
Exhaust catalyser
Ansul fire suppression system, dry or wet
Service platform HL 210-MBE
Hydraulic Swellex pump
Manual lubrication system
1000 V electronic system, direct start only

8410

Hydraulic tunnelling and mining rig with

computer-based drilling system for high
accuracy and productivity.
For cross sections up to 70 m.

Main specifications
Rocket Boomer L1 C
Rock drill
Feed
Boom
Drilling system
Length (with BMH 6816)
Width
Height with fixed cabin
Turning radius
Weight

FACE DRILLING

Drillrigs2.indd 5

1 x COP 1838ME/COP 1838HF

1 x BMH 6814 - BMH 6820
1 x BUT 35G
RCS
14220 mm
2210 mm
3010 mm
6250/3750 mm
17800 kg

9690
10210
Coverage area (with 2 look-out angle)
Typical min. drift width 3.2 m
Visit www.facedrilling.com for more information
91

2004-02-23, 18:23:11

DRILLRIG SPECIFICATION

Rocket Boomer L1 C-DH

3010

www.atlascopco.com

L1 C

L1 C

14220 (BMH 6816)

Rig Control System (RCS) with interactive operator

control panel with full-colour display of the computerbased drilling system. Autocollaring and anti-jamming
protection
COP 1838 rock drill with modern double reflex
dampening for high speed drilling and excellent drill
steel economy
Integrated diagnostic system can immediately identify
faulty electronic components
Advanced Boom Control ABC assists the operator to
achieve accurate drill hole location and improve the
quality of the drilling by optimising the drilling pattern
and reducing costly overbreak
PC-card for transfer of data and for service engineers to
store preferred drill settings
Modular design of electronic and mechanical
components
Ergonomic cabin as optional, reduces noise level below
80 dB(A)
Heavy-duty aluminium hydraulic feeds with double
bottom for high torsional resistance
BUT 35 heavy-duty booms for direct, fast and accurate
positioning between holes. New powerful feed rotation
unit and increased coverage. Improved linkage in main
boom joints and new axial bearings in all boom joints
Sturdy, articulated carrier with four wheel drive for
easy manoeuvring in narrow tunnels and drifts,
powered by low emission, water-cooled diesel engine
Basic rig includes telescopic FOPS-approved protective
roof, adjustable operators control panel, fixed seat,
hydraulic driven compressor and water booster pump,
cable reel, and work lights.

Main optional equipment

Hydraulic drill steel support BSH 110
Rod Adding System RAS, max 18+12 ft
Rod Handling System RHS for 6 rods, incl. RAS and BUT 35SL
Automatic boom lubrication system, rear part of boom
Advanced Boom Control - ABC available in three levels
Basic, Regular and Total
FOPS-approved cabin
Additional operators control panel
Alternative mounting heights of cabin or roof
Hole blowing kit, with 80 l air receiver
Internal water mist flushing with water tank (940 l) and air supply
Rock drill lubrication warning kit
Exhaust water scrubber 95 l
Exhaust catalyser
Ansul fire suppression system, dry or wet
Service platform HL 210-MBE
Hydraulic Swellex pump
Manual lubrication system

8410

Hydraulic tunnelling and mining rig with

computer-based drilling system for high
accuracy and productivity.
For cross sections up to 70 m.

Main specifications
Rocket Boomer L1 C-DH
Rock drill
Feed
Boom
Drilling system
Length (with BMH 6816)
Width
Height with fixed cabin
Turning radius
Weight

92

Drillrigs2.indd 6

1 x COP 1838ME/COP 1838HF

1 x BMH 6814 - BMH 6820
1 x BUT 35G
RCS
14220 mm
2210 mm
3010 mm
6250/3750 mm
18650 kg

9690
10210
Coverage area (with 2 look-out angle)
Typical min. drift width 3.2 m
Visit www.facedrilling.com for more information

FACE DRILLING

2004-02-23, 18:23:11

DRILLRIG SPECIFICATION

2300

700

Rocket Boomer 282

11820 (BMH 2843)

Direct controlled hydraulic tunnelling drill rig

with two BUT 28 booms and COP 1838 rock
drills. For high speed drilling in cross sections
up to 45m.

Telescopic feed BMHT 2800

Hydraulic drill steel gripper BSH 110 for extension drilling
(only on BMH 2800)
FAM electronic look-out indicator
FOPS-approved cabin
Big hole drilling kit
Hole blowing kit with external air
Water reel
Water mist flushing
Rock drill lubrication warning kit
Automatic boom lubrication system, rear part of boom
Manual lubrication system
Exhaust catalyser
ANSUL fire suppression system
Electrical system 1000v, direct start only

6300

Designed for drifting, crosscuts, and roofholes.

Compact transport width of 1.98 m
Direct controlled drilling system with anti-jamming
function RPCF (Rotation Pressure Controlled Feed
force)
COP 1838 rock drill with modern double reflex
dampening for high speed drilling and excellent drill
steel economy
BMH 2800 heavy-duty aluminium hydraulic feed with
double bottom for high torsional resistance
BUT 28 heavy-duty boom for direct, fast and accurate
positioning
Sturdy, articulated carrier for high mobility and stable
set up. Four-wheel drive, power steering, fail-safe
brakes and central lubricated chassis
Basic rig includes telescopic FOPS-approved protective
roof, cable reel, work lights, water booster pump, and
pump unloading function for easier start with low
voltage

Main optional equipment

Main specifications
Rocket Boomer 282
Rock drill
Feed
Boom
Drilling system
Length (with BMH 2843)
Width
Height roof up
roof down
Turning radius
Weight

FACE DRILLING

Drillrigs2.indd 7

2 x COP 1838ME
2 x BMH 2831 - BMH 2849
2 x BUT 28
DCS 18-280
11820 mm
1980 mm
3000 mm
2300 mm
5500/3000 mm
17500 kg

8100
8700
Coverage area (with 2 look-out angle)
Typical min. drift width 3.0 m
Visit www.facedrilling.com for more information
93

2004-02-23, 18:23:12

DRILLRIG SPECIFICATION

Rocket Boomer M2 C
Rocket Boomer M2 C
3010

www.atlascopco.com

M2 C

M2 C

13610 with BMH 6816

Rig Control System (RCS) with interactive operator

control panel with full-colour display of the computerbased drilling system. Auto-collaring and anti-jamming
protection
COP 1838 rock drill with modern double reflex
dampening for high speed drilling and excellent drill
steel economy
Integrated diagnostic system can immediately identify
faulty electronic components
Advanced Boom Control ABC assists the operator to
achieve accurate drill hole location and improve the
quality of the drilling by optimising the drilling pattern
and reducing costly overbreak
PC-card for transfer of data and for service engineers to
store preferred drill settings
Modular design of electronic and mechanical
components
Ergonomic cabin as optional, reduces noise level below
80 dB(A)
BMH 6800 heavy-duty aluminium hydraulic feeds with
double bottom for high torsional resistance
BUT 32 heavy-duty booms for direct, fast and accurate
positioning between holes
Sturdy articulated carrier with four wheel drive for easy
manoeuvring in narrow tunnels and drifts, powered by
low emission, water-cooled diesel engine
Basic rig includes telescopic FOPS-approved protective
roof, adjustable operators control panel, fixed seat,
hydraulic driven compressor and water booster pump,
cable reel, and work lights

Main optional equipment

Hydraulic drill steel gripper BSH 110 for extension drilling
Rod Adding System RAS, for 14+10 ft rods
Advanced Boom Control ABC available in three levels:
Basic, Regular and Total
FOPS-approved cabin
Additional operators control panel
Alternative mounting heights of cabin or roof
Hole blowing kit with external air
Water mist flushing
Rock drill lubrication warning kit
Automatic boom lubrication system, rear part of boom
Exhaust catalyser with silencer
Manual lubrication system
ANSUL fire suppression system
Hydraulic Swellex pump
Electrical system 1000v, direct start only

6300

Hydraulic tunnelling and mining rig with

computer-based drilling system for high
accuracy and productivity.
For cross sections up to 45m.

Main specifications
Rocket Boomer M2 C
Rock drill
Feed
Boom
Drilling system
Length (with BMH 6816)
Width
Height with fixed cabin
Turning radius
Weight

94

Drillrigs2.indd 8

2 x COP 1838ME/COP 1838 HF

2 x BMH 6812 - BMH 6818
2 x BUT 32
RCS
13610 mm
2210 mm
3010 mm
6250/3800 mm
19600 kg

7700
8590
Coverage area (with 2 look-out angle)
Typical min. drift width 3.2 m
Visit www.facedrilling.com for more information

FACE DRILLING

2004-02-23, 18:23:12

DRILLRIG SPECIFICATION

2900

Rocket Boomer L2 C

www.atlascopco.com

L2 C

L2 C

14170 (with BMH 6816)

Rig Control System (RCS) with interactive operator

control panel with full-colour display of the computerbased drilling system. Autocollaring and anti-jamming
protection
COP 1838 rock drill with modern double reflex
dampening for high speed drilling and excellent drill
steel economy
Integrated diagnostic system can immediately identify
faulty electronic components
Advanced Boom Control ABC assists the operator to
achieve accurate drill hole location and improve the
quality of the drilling by optimising the drilling pattern
and reducing costly overbreak
PC-card for transfer of data and for service engineers to
store preferred drill settings
Modular design of electronic and mechanical
components
Ergonomic cabin as optional, reduces noise level below
80 dB(A)
Heavy-duty aluminium hydraulic feeds with double
bottom for high torsional resistance
BUT 35 heavy-duty booms for direct, fast and accurate
positioning between holes. New powerful feed rotation
unit and increased coverage. Improved linkage in main
boom joints and new axial bearings in all boom joints
Sturdy, articulated carrier with four wheel drive for
easy manoeuvring in narrow tunnels and drifts,
powered by low emission, water-cooled diesel engine
Basic rig includes telescopic FOPS-approved protective
roof, adjustable operators control panel, fixed seat,
hydraulic driven compressor and water booster pump,
cable reel, and work lights.

Other versions
Rocket Boomer L2 D electric-hydraulic, direct controlled drill rig

Main optional equipment

Telescopic feed BMHT 6800 (not with ABC)
Hydraulic drill steel gripper BSH 110 for extension drilling (only on
BMH 6800)
Rod Adding System RAS, for 18+12 ft rods
Extended boom reach with 700 mm long fixed boom segment
Advanced Boom Control ABC available in three levels: Basic,
Regular and Total
Measure While Drilling MWD - logging drilling data
FOPS-approved cabin
Additional operators control panel
Hole blowing kit with external air
Water mist flushing
Rock drill lubrication warning kit
Automatic boom lubrication system, rear part of boom
Service platform
Exhaust catalyser with silencer
Manual lubrication system
ANSUL fire suppression system
Hydraulic Swellex pump
Electrical system 1000 v, direct start only

9300

Hydraulic tunnelling rig with computerbased drilling system for high accuracy and
productivity.
For cross sections up to 104 m2.

Main specifications
Rocket Boomer L2 C
Rock drill
Feed
Boom
Drilling system
Length (with BMH 6816)
Width
Height
Turning radius
Weight

FACE DRILLING

Drillrigs2.indd 9

2 x COP 1838ME/COP 1838 HF

2 x BMH 6814 - BMH 6820
2 x BUT 35G
RCS
14170 mm
2500 mm
3010 mm
7360/4000 mm
23600 kg

12800
13400
Coverage area (incl. 250 mm look-out)
Typical min. drift width 3.5 m
Visit www.facedrilling.com for more information
95

2004-02-23, 18:23:13

DRILLRIG SPECIFICATION

3660

1100

Rocket Boomer L2 C-2B

L2 C-2B

L2 C-2B

17170 (BMH 6820)

Rig Control System (RCS) with interactive operator

control panel with full-colour display of the computerbased drilling system. Auto-collaring and anti-jamming
protection
COP 1838 rock drill with modern double reflex dampening
for high speed drilling and excellent drill steel economy
Integrated diagnostic system can immediately identify
faulty electronic components
Advanced Boom Control ABC assists the operator to
achieve accurate drill hole location and improve the
quality of the drilling by optimising the drilling pattern and
reducing costly overbreak
Two service platforms side-mounted and especially
designed for micro-benching, providing flexibility,
efficiency and operators safety
PC-card for transfer of data and for service engineers to
store preferred drill settings
Large and ergonomic cabin with noise level below 80dB(A)
BUT 35 heavy-duty booms for direct, fast and accurate
positioning between holes. New powerful feed rotation
unit and increased coverage. Improved linkage in main
boom joints and new axial bearings in all boom joints
Modular design of electronic and mechanical components
Sturdy carrier with all-wheel drive for easy manoeuvring.
Powered by a turbo-charged, watercooled 6-cylinder, low
emission diesel engine for high mobility. Four jacks for
stable set up.
Basic rig includes FOPS-approved cabin, adjustable
operators seat with armrest controls, hydraulic driven
compressor and water booster pump, cable reel, and work
lights

Main optional equipment

Telescopic feed BMHT 6800 (not with ABC)
Hydraulic drill steel gripper BSH 110 for extension drilling (only on
BMH 6800)
Rod Adding System RAS, for 20+10 ft rods
Extended boom reach with 700 mm long fixed boom segment
Advanced Boom Control ABC available in three levels: Basic,
Regular and Total
Measure While Drilling MWD logging drill data
Additional operators control panel
Liftable cabin, 1100 mm
Hole blowing kit with external air
Water mist flushing
Rock drill lubrication warning kit
Automatic boom lubrication system, rear part of boom
Exhaust catalyser with silencer
Manual lubrication system
ANSUL fire suppression system
Hydraulic Swellex pump
Electrical system 1000 v, direct start only

10000

Two-boom hydraulic jumbo, with two service

platforms for high speed tunnelling adapted
for the micro-benching method.
For cross sections up to 114 m

Main specifications
Rocket Boomer L2 C-2B
Rock drill
Feed
Boom
Service platform
Drilling system
Length
Width
Height with fixed cabin
Turning radius
Weight

96

Drillrigs2.indd 10

2 x COP 1838ME
2 x BMH 6800-series
2 x BUT 35G
2x SP4
RCS
17170 mm
2500 mm
3660 mm
11800/6800 mm
47000 kg

13200
14100
Coverage area (incl. 250 mm look-out)
Typical min. drift width 3.5 m
Visit www.facedrilling.com for more information
FACE DRILLING

2004-02-23, 18:23:14

DRILLRIG SPECIFICATION

3660

1100

Rocket Boomer L3 C-2B

17170 (BMH 6820)

Rig Control System (RCS) with interactive operator

control panel with full-colour display of the computerbased drilling system. Auto-collaring and anti-jamming
protection
COP 1838 rock drill with modern double reflex dampening
for high speed drilling and excellent drill steel economy
Integrated diagnostic system can immediately identify
faulty electronic components
Advanced Boom Control ABC assists the operator to
achieve accurate drill hole location and improve the
quality of the drilling by optimising the drilling pattern and
reducing costly overbreak
Two service platforms side-mounted and especially
designed for micro-benching, providing flexibility,
efficiency and operators safety
PC-card for transfer of data and for service engineers to
store preferred drill settings
Large and ergonomic cabin with noise level below 80dB(A)
BUT 35 heavy-duty booms for direct, fast and accurate
positioning between holes. New powerful feed rotation
unit and increased coverage. Improved linkage in main
boom joints and new axial bearings in all boom joints
Modular design of electronic and mechanical components
Sturdy carrier with all-wheel drive for easy manoeuvring.
Powered by a turbo-charged, water-cooled 6-cylinder, low
emission diesel engine for high mobility. Four jacks for
stable set up.
Basic rig includes FOPS-approved cabin, adjustable
operators seat with armrest controls, hydraulic driven
compressor and water booster pump, cable reel, and work
lights

Main optional equipment

Telescopic feed BMHT 6800 (not with ABC)
Hydraulic drill steel gripper BSH 110 for extension drilling (only on
BMH 6800)
Rod Adding System RAS, for 20+10 ft rods
Extended boom reach with 700 mm long fixed boom segment
Advanced Boom Control ABC available in three levels: Basic,
Regular and Total
Measure While Drilling MWD logging drill data
Additional operators control panel
Liftable cabin, 1100 mm
Hole blowing kit with external air
Water mist flushing
Rock drill lubrication warning kit
Automatic boom lubrication system, rear part of boom
Exhaust catalyser with silencer
Manual lubrication system
ANSUL fire suppression system
Hydraulic Swellex pump
Electrical system 1000 v, direct start only

10000

Three-boom hydraulic jumbo, with two

service platforms for high speed tunnelling
adapted for the micro-benching method.
For cross sections up to 114 m

Main specifications
Rocket Boomer L3 C-2B
Rock drill
Feed
Boom
Service platform
Drilling system
Length
Width
Height with fixed cabin
Turning radius
Weight

FACE DRILLING

Drillrigs2.indd 11

3 x COP 1838ME
3 x BMH 6800-series
3 x BUT 35G
2x SP4
RCS
17170 mm
2500 mm
3660 mm
11800/6800 mm
50000 kg

13200
14100
Coverage area (incl. 250 mm look-out)

Visit www.facedrilling.com for more information

97

2004-02-23, 18:23:14

DRILLRIG SPECIFICATION

3660

1100

Rocket Boomer L3 C

L3 C

L3 C

17070 (BMH 6820)

Rig Control System (RCS) with interactive operator

control panel with full-colour display of the computerbased drilling system. Auto-collaring and anti-jamming
protection
COP 1838 rock drill with modern double reflex
dampening for high speed drilling and excellent drill
steel economy
Integrated diagnostic system can immediately identify
faulty electronic components
Advanced Boom Control ABC assists the operator to
achieve accurate drill hole location and improve the
quality of the drilling by optimising the drilling pattern
and reducing costly overbreak
PC-card for transfer of data and for service engineers to
store preferred drill settings
Large and ergonomic cabin with noise level below
80dB(A)
BUT 35 heavy-duty booms for direct, fast and accurate
positioning between holes. New powerful feed rotation
unit and increased coverage. Improved linkage in main
boom joints and new axial bearings in all boom joints
Modular design of electronic and mechanical
components
Sturdy carrier with all-wheel drive for easy
manoeuvring. Powered by a turbo-charged, watercooled 6-cylinder, low emission diesel engine for high
mobility. Four jacks for stable set up.
Basic rig includes FOPS-approved cabin, adjustable
operators seat with armrest controls, hydraulic driven
compressor and water booster pump, cable reel, and
work lights

Main optional equipment

Telescopic feed BMHT 6800 (not with ABC)
Hydraulic drill steel gripper BSH 110 for extension drilling (only on
BMH 6800)
Rod Adding System RAS, for 20+10 ft rods
Extended boom reach with 700 mm long fixed boom segment
Advanced Boom Control ABC available in three levels: Basic,
Regular and Total
Measure While Drilling MWD logging drill data
Additional operators control panel
Liftable cabin, 1100 mm
Hole blowing kit with external air
Water mist flushing
Rock drill lubrication warning kit
Automatic boom lubrication system, rear part of boom
Service platform
Exhaust catalyser with silencer
Manual lubrication system
ANSUL fire suppression system
Hydraulic Swellex pump
Electrical system 1000 v, direct start only

9950

Hydraulic tunnelling rig with fixed boom

console for high capacity tunnelling.
For cross sections up to 114m

Main specifications
Rocket Boomer L3 C
Rock drill
Feed
Boom
Drilling system
Length
Width
Height with fixed cabin
Turning radius
Weight

98

Drillrigs2.indd 12

3 x COP 1838ME
3 x BMH 6800-series
3 x BUT 35G
RCS
17070 mm
2500 mm
3660 mm
11800/6800 mm
37000 kg

12750
13600
Coverage area (incl. 250 mm look-out)

Visit www.facedrilling.com for more information

FACE DRILLING

2004-02-23, 18:23:15

DRILLRIG SPECIFICATION

3660

1100

Rocket Boomer XL3 C

www.atlascopco.com

16960 (BMH 6820)

Rig Control System (RCS) with interactive operator

control panel with full-colour display of the computerbased drilling system. Auto-collaring and anti-jamming
protection
COP 1838 rock drill with modern double reflex
dampening for high speed drilling and excellent drill
steel economy
Integrated diagnostic system can immediately identify
faulty electronic components
Advanced Boom Control ABC assists the operator to
achieve accurate drill hole location and improve the
quality of the drilling by optimising the drilling pattern
and reducing costly overbreak
PC-card for transfer of data and for service engineers to
store preferred drill settings
Large and ergonomic cabin with noise level below
80dB(A)
BUT 35 heavy-duty booms for direct, fast and accurate
positioning between holes. New powerful feed rotation
unit and increased coverage. Improved linkage in main
boom joints and new axial bearings in all boom joints
Modular design of electronic and mechanical
components
Sturdy carrier with all-wheel drive for easy
manoeuvring. Powered by a turbo-charged, watercooled 6-cylinder, low emission diesel engine for high
mobility. Four jacks for stable set up.
Basic rig includes FOPS-approved cabin, adjustable
operators seat with armrest controls, hydraulic driven
compressor and water booster pump, cable reel, and
work lights

Main optional equipment

Telescopic feed BMHT 6800 (not with ABC)
Hydraulic drill steel gripper BSH 110 for extension drilling (only on
BMH 6800)
Rod Adding System RAS, for 20+10 ft rods
Extended boom reach with 700 mm long fixed boom segment
Advanced Boom Control ABC available in three levels: Basic,
Regular and Total
Measure While Drilling MWD logging drill data
Additional operators control panel
Liftable cabin, 1100 mm
Hole blowing kit with external air
Water mist flushing
Rock drill lubrication warning kit
Automatic boom lubrication system, rear part of boom
Service platform
Exhaust catalyser with silencer
Manual lubrication system
ANSUL fire suppression system
Hydraulic Swellex pump
Electrical system 1000 v, direct start only

13050

Hydraulic tunnelling rig with high reaching

Eagle console for railway tunnels and
underground caverns.
For cross sections up to 179m

Main specifications
Rocket Boomer XL3 C
Rock drill
Feed
Boom
Drilling system
Length
Width
Height with fixed cabin
Turning radius
Weight

FACE DRILLING

Drillrigs2.indd 13

3 x COP 1838ME
3 x BMH 6800-series
3 x BUT 35G
RCS
16960 mm
2700 mm
3660 mm
11800/6700 mm
42000 kg

14400
16100
Coverage area (incl. 250 mm look-out)

Visit www.facedrilling.com for more information

99

2004-02-23, 18:23:15

DRILLRIG SPECIFICATION

3660

1100

Rocket Boomer WL3 C

www.atlascopco.com

17220 (BMH 6820)

Rig Control System (RCS) with interactive operator

control panel with full-colour display of the computerbased drilling system. Auto-collaring and anti-jamming
protection
COP 1838 rock drill with modern double reflex
dampening for high speed drilling and excellent drill
steel economy
Integrated diagnostic system can immediately identify
faulty electronic components
Advanced Boom Control ABC assists the operator to
achieve accurate drill hole location and improve the
quality of the drilling by optimising the drilling pattern
and reducing costly overbreak
PC-card for transfer of data and for service engineers to
store preferred drill settings
Large and ergonomic cabin with noise level below
80dB(A)
BUT 35 heavy-duty booms for direct, fast and accurate
positioning between holes. New powerful feed rotation
unit and increased coverage. Improved linkage in main
boom joints and new axial bearings in all boom joints
Modular design of electronic and mechanical
components
Sturdy carrier with all-wheel drive for easy
manoeuvring. Powered by a turbo-charged, watercooled 6-cylinder, low emission diesel engine for high
mobility. Four jacks for stable set up.
Basic rig includes FOPS-approved cabin, adjustable
operators seat with armrest controls, hydraulic driven
compressor and water booster pump, cable reel, and
work lights

Main optional equipment

Telescopic feed BMHT 6800 (not with ABC)
Hydraulic drill steel gripper BSH 110 for extension drilling (only on
BMH 6800)
Rod Adding System RAS, for 20+10 ft rods
Extended boom reach with 700 mm long fixed boom segment
Advanced Boom Control ABC available in three levels: Basic,
Regular and Total
Measure While Drilling MWD logging drill data
Additional operators control panel
Liftable cabin, 1100 mm
Hole blowing kit with external air
Water mist flushing
Rock drill lubrication warning kit
Automatic boom lubrication system, rear part of boom
Service platform
Exhaust catalyser with silencer
Manual lubrication system
ANSUL fire suppression system
Hydraulic Swellex pump
Electrical system 1000 v, direct start only

10650

Hydraulic tunnelling rig with extra wide

reaching boom console for highway tunnels
and underground caverns.
For cross sections up to 163m

Main specifications
Rocket Boomer WL3 C
Rock drill
Feed
Boom
Drilling system
Length
Width
Height with fixed cabin
Turning radius
Weight

100

Drillrigs2.indd 14

3 x COP 1838ME
3 x BMH 6800-series
3 x BUT 35G
RCS
17220 mm
3010 mm
3660 mm
11800/6600 mm
43000 kg

17600
18250
Coverage area (incl. 250 mm look-out)

Visit www.facedrilling.com for more information

FACE DRILLING

2004-02-23, 18:23:16

29/3/04

7:47 am

Page i

The face of Innovation

FD3/pi-iv

Atlas Copco launches

the super-fast 30 kW hydraulic rock drill

COP 3038

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Page ii

COP 3038 - a true high

Atlas Copco launches the super-fast 30 kW hydraulic rock drill COP 3038
for tunnelling and drifting applications, which represents a major step
in new product development. After more than 700,000 metres of test
drilling in various geological conditions, the COP 3038 design has proved to drill amazingly 50% faster than its predecessor COP 1838 ME.
You can both see and virtually hear the difference.
Same percussive energy twice as fast
The energy per percussive blow is the same as for
COP 1838 ME, but the blow frequency is almost doubled,
from about 50 to 100 Hz. A new spool valve system
and redesigned hydraulic ow channels together with the
impact piston design enable the fast piston movements. On top of that, a patented invention provides an
extra rapid turn of the piston in its rear position.
It could be described as a bouncing chamber comments Andreas Nordbrant, Product Portfolio Manager at
Atlas Copco Rocktec Division in rebro, Sweden. The
front end of the rock drill has been redesigned, using
4 seals of same type, to cope with water pressure
of 20 to 40 bar required to efciently ush out the drill
cuttings. Also water intrusion, especially when drilling
up-holes, is better prevented. Compared to COP 1838 ME,
the COP 3038 is 5 kg lighter and 15 mm shorter.

IIII

Service friendly
Hydraulic oil from the dampener drainage gives automatic
gearbox lubrication, which means that no grease nipples
are needed. Altogether there are 10 % fewer parts compared
to COP 1838 ME, and most hoses have been connected
at the rear end. The overhaul can be made having the
rock drill horizontally placed. Thanks to these features the
total time for overhaul is reduced by 25% compared to
COP 1838 ME.

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Page iii

frequency performer

Applications
The COP 3038 rock drill is suitable for face drilling applications, especially where major benets can be derived
from extraordinary high penetration rates such as in
tunnelling, drifting and room and pillar mining. COP 3038
is intended for 43 to 64 mm diameter holes using a T38
shank adapter. For best service life and optimum
drilling performance, usage of the patented Secoroc
Magnum SR 35 system is recommended. COP 3038 can
also be used for rock reinforcement drilling at reduced
power in combination with a R32 shank adapter and a
down-sized drill string.

Power and intelligence

The COP 3038 is intended for the new generation Rocket
Boomer L2C and Rocket Boomer L3C rigs, which are
already regarded as the most powerful and intelligent
tunnelling rigs on the market today. Rigs furnished with
COP 3038 will be featuring a new power pack and a new
control system software to fully utilize the power of the
rock drill. Equipped with COP 3038, the Rocket Boomer
L2C and Rocket Boomer L3C rigs will become even
more powerful, consequently making these rigs the
number one choice on the market.

Visit www.facedrilling.com for more information

FACE DRILLING

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Page iv

COP 3038

Top hammer rock drill for hole diameter range 43 - 64 mm

The COP 3038 rock drill is suitable for face drilling applications, especially where major benets can be derived
from extraordinary high penetration rates such as in tunnelling, drifting and room and pillar mining. COP 3038
is intended for 43 to 64 mm diameter holes using a T38
shank adapter. For best service life and optimum drilling

performance, usage of the patented Secoroc Magnum

SR 35 system is recommended. COP 3038 can also be
used for rock reinforcement drilling at reduced power in
combination with a R32 shank adapter and a down-sized
drill string.

Technical data
Weight, incl. adapter
Length, excl. adapter
Impact power, max
Impact rate
Hydraulic pressure, max
Rotation speedrange, max
Flushing water
Lubrication air, max
Shank adapter

COP 3038
165 kg
990 mm
30 kW
102 Hz
200 bar
0-380 rpm
20-40 bar
6 bar
T38

A new range of super-fast Rocket Boomer face drilling rigs

Rocket Boomer L32

Rocket Boomer L33

Rocket Boomer XL33

Rocket Boomer WL33

The new Rocket Boomer designation system, Rocket Boomer L32, L = large, 3 = 30kW, 2 = rig with two booms.
IV
IV

FACE DRILLING

ROCK DRILL SPECIFICATION

Hydraulic rock drills

COP 1532 Top hammer rock drill for hole diameter range 35* 64 mm
A powerful rock drill with very high capacity and less
stress in the drill steel. COP 1532 is the shortest rock
drill in its class for the best utilisation of the feed
length. Impact power and frequency can be controlled
and adjusted independently of each other. A modern
hydraulic reflex dampener gives the rock drill the best
protection from reflected shock waves.

Back hammering function makes it possible to use

the impact mechanism as an aid to take out a stuck drill
steel.
*One rod drilling
Technical data
Weight
Length
Impact power, max
Impact rate
Hydraulic pressure, max
Rotation speed range, max
Rotation pressure, max
Rotation motor size (OMSU80)
Drill steel torque, max
Flushing air pressure
Lubricating air consump. at 2 bar
Shank adapter, male
Shank adapter, female

COP 1532
172 kg
850 mm
15 kW
65 Hz
230 bar
0-380 rpm
210 bar
-02
520 Nm
10 bar
5 l/s
R28, R32, T38
R32, R38

COP 1838ME/MEX Top hammer rock drill for hole diameter range 64 89 mm
COP 1838ME is specially suitable for small to medium
hole sizes. Adjustable stroke length makes it possible to
adjust impact rate and energy to actual rock conditions
and hole size. Powerful, stepless variable and reversible
rotation motor gives high torque and excellent speed
control. The efficient reflex damping system of the COP
1800 series is called dual damping due to its high

efficiency and double acting function. As the feed and

the boom are not subjected to unnecessary strain, the
entire drill string will give longer service life. The
automatic tightening system of the drill string results in
straighter holes and optimum penetration.
COP 1838MEX has built-in hydraulic extractor.
Technical data

Weight
Length
Impact power, max
Impact rate
Hydraulic pressure, max
Rotation speed range, max
Rotation pressure, max
Rotation motor size (OMS 160)
Drill steel torque, max
Flushing air pressure
Lubricating air consump. at 2 bar
Shank adapter

COP
COP
1838ME
1838MEX
170 kg
229 kg
1008 mm
1206 mm
18 kW
18 kW
60 Hz
60 Hz
230 bar
230 bar
0-210 rpm
0-210 rpm
210 bar
210 bar
-07
-07
1000 Nm
1000 Nm
10 bar
10 bar
6 l/
6 l/s
R38, T38, T45

COP 1838HF Top hammer rock drill for hole diameter range 43 76 mm
COP 1838HF is an alternative to the COP 1838ME for the
small to medium hole sizes. It has a significantly higher
drill speed than the ME version but gives the same
outstanding drill steel economy. The COP 1838HF doesnt
hit harder - it hits 20% faster. Powerful, stepless variable
and reversible rotation motor gives high torque and
excellent speed control.

The efficient reflex damping system of the COP 1800

series is called dual damping due to its high
efficiency and double acting function. As the feed and
the boom are not subjected to unnecessary strain, the
entire drill string will give longer service life. The
automatic tightening system of the drill string results in
straighter holes and optimum penetration.
Technical data
Weight
Length
Impact power, max
Impact rate
Hydraulic pressure, max
Rotation speed, max
Rotation pressure, max
Rotation motor size (OMS 125/OMS160)
Drill steel torque, max
Flushing air pressure
Lubricating air consump. at 2 bar
Shank adapter

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Rock drills.indd 1

COP 1838HF
170 kg
1008 mm
22 kW
73 Hz
250 bar
0-270/0-210 rpm
210 bar
-06/-07
820/1000 Nm
10 bar
6 l/s
R32, R38, T38, T45

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2004-02-23, 19:07:17

ROCK DRILL SPECIFICATION

COP 1238ME/LP Top hammer rock drill for hole diameter range 35* 89 mm
The COP 1238-series of rock drills have an excellent
reputation for high productivity, dependability in
operation, and good economy in bench drilling.
Powerful, stepless variable and reversible rotation
motor gives high torque and enables great
possibilities with rotation speed. Additional benefits

include the ability to shock waves. Back hammering

function makes it possible to use the impact mechanism
as an aid to take out a stuck drill steel.
*One rod drilling
Technical data
COP 1238ME

Weight
Length
Impact power, max
Impact rate
Hydraulic pressure, max
Rotation speed range, max
Rotation pressure, max
Rotation motor size (OMS 100)
Drill steel torque, max
Flushing air pressure
Lubricating air consump. at 2 bar
Shank adapter

COP 1238LP

151 kg
150 kg
1002 mm
1002 mm
12 kW
12 kW
40-60 Hz
50-75 Hz
230 bar
190 bar
0-330 rpm
0-330 rpm
210 bar
210 bar
-05
-05
650 Nm
650 Nm
10 bar
10 bar
5 l/s
5 l/s
R32, T38, T45

Overhaul Kit COP 1238ME

Complete kit for overhaul and service of the rock drill
Main features
This kit contains all parts needed for service and
overhaul of your rock drill COP 1238ME as per
factory recommendation.
With this kit you will bring your rock drill back to
factory specification, and optimize your production in
an economical way.
The parts are contained in a solid wood box, for
shipping and handling at the job site.
One part number for easier order handling and
logistics.
The kit also includes the overhauling instructions
and spare parts list which you need for overhauling
COP 1238ME.
Competitive priced compared to buying individual items.

Rebuild kit

Rebuild kit

For COP 1238 ME-T38 Part number 3115 1436 90

For COP 1238 ME-T45 Part numer 3115 1435 90

Part number

Specification

Part number

Specification

3115 0288 90

Including above kit 3115 1436 90

and below item
Piston
1

3115 0288 92

Including above kit 3115 1435 90

and below item
Piston
1

Including above kit 3115 0288 90

and below items
Valve piston
1
Flushing head
1

3115 0288 93

3115 0288 00
3115 0288 91
3115 1823 00
3115 2078 00

3115 0288 00

3115 1823 00
3115 2079 00

Including above kit 3115 0288 92

and below items
Valve piston
1
Flushing head
1

Seal Kit COP 1238 Part number 3115 9150 95

Visit www.facedrilling.com for more information

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2004-02-23, 19:07:20

DRILL RIG OPTIONS

Advanced Boom Control - Basic

Operator controlled, computer supported drill feed
guidance tool for precise drill hole alignment
Advanced Boom Control, ABC is an optional tool for
New Generation RCS (Rig Control System) Boomer rigs
equipped with BUT 32 or BUT 35 booms. It enables the
holes in a round to be accurately located and drilled.
ABC is available in three levels of automation - Basic,
Regular and Total.
ABC Basic has the lowest level of automation and is useful
in reducing the errors due to a wrongly aligned feed. It is
an operator controlled, RCS supported system for use
where computerized guidance is only required for aligning
the drill feed correctly.

ABC Basic with lowest level of automation, manual positioning,

angle indication of feed, hole length indication and basic logging.

Correctly placed drill holes lead to a longer advance, an accurate excavated tunnel profile and minimum damage to
the surrounding rock. The result is significant savings in
the costs of blasting, mucking, reinforcement and, if specified in the contract, filling the overbreak with concrete. In
the drill-blast method of tunnelling and mining, drilling is
the first activity in a series of work procedures. The method
is characterized by its cyclic repetition of the different activities. Each step brings the tunnel face one step forward
into the rock.
Any error introduced during drilling is difficult to rectify
in the ensuing work procedures. Common sources of
human error in positioning and aligning the drill holes are:
Inaccurate marking of the tunnel cross-section on
the face
Inaccurate marking of the contour holes
Incorrect collaring
Inaccurate alignment of the feed

Main Features
Provides three different ways to define a reference
direction for drilling.
Simple and easy-to-use system in which the selected
boom and feed is moved by the operator to the position
of the drill hole. The operator then aligns the drill feed
in the direction of the drill hole under the guidance of
ABC Basic and initiates drilling.
Can be optionally upgraded to the next higher level of
automation, ABC Regular.

Visit www.facedrilling.com for more information

Hardware components
RCS Boomer rigs with BUT 32 or BUT 35 booms can
be equipped with the optional ABC Basic tool. The
additional hardware includes three sensors and one
resolver module for each boom. The sensors monitor
the alignment of the boom and feed. The resolver module integrates the signals from the sensors into the
rig RCS system and the alignment is displayed on the
operator's control panel.

2
1
Sensor locations
1. Boom swing
2. Feed swing
3. Feed inclination

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DRILL RIG OPTIONS

Advanced Boom Control - Regular

Operator controlled, computer supported drill feed positioning
and guidance tool for precise drill hole location and alignment
Advanced Boom Control, ABC is an optional tool for
New Generation RCS (Rig Control System) Boomer rigs
equipped with BUT 32 or BUT 35 booms. It enables the
holes in a round to be accurately located and drilled.
ABC is available in three levels of automation - Basic,
Regular and Total.
ABC Regular provides a medium level of automation suitable for all applications where the operator, guided by
the system, can accurately position, align, collar and drill
holes to the required depth. It is also possible to record
drill hole data, while drilling, for subsequent analysis on
the office PC.

ABC Regular with medium level of automation, computer guided

positioning, feedback on operators display, navigation to tunnel
laser and logging of drilling on PC card.

Correctly placed drill holes lead to a longer advance, an accurate excavated tunnel profile and minimum damage to
the surrounding rock. The result is significant savings in
the costs of blasting, mucking, reinforcement and, if specified in the contract, filling the overbreak with concrete. In
the drill-blast method of tunnelling and mining, drilling is
the first activity in a series of work procedures. The method
is characterized by its cyclic repetition of the different activities. Each step brings the tunnel face one step forward
into the rock.
Any error introduced during drilling is difficult to rectify
in the ensuing work procedures. Common sources of
human error in positioning and aligning the drill holes are:
Inaccurate marking of the tunnel cross-section on
the face
Inaccurate marking of the contour holes
Incorrect collaring
Inaccurate alignment of the feed

Main features
Drill patterns and other relevant tunnel data can easily
be created on the site office PC with a Windows-based
software application developed by Atlas Copco. This
application software, Tunnel Manager Lite, is delivered
with all rigs equipped with ABC Regular.
Data transfer between the office PC and the Boomer rig
is by means of a PC card.
The operator is guided by the drill pattern information
displayed on the control panel screen to accurately position and align the drill feeds.
Two alternative possibilities are available for choosing
the starting point of the drill hole:
- from a theoretical reference plane
- from the actual point of contact with the rock
A common hole depth function can be activated that
enables all holes to end in the same plane irrespective
of the starting point.
Direct touch-keys are located on the control panel for
quick access to important functions.
A built-in program is provided to compensate for mechanical deflection of the booms.
Logging of drill hole data for subsequent analysis of the
drill round.

Hardware components
RCS Boomer rigs with BUT 32 or BUT 35 booms can
be equipped with the optional ABC Regular tool. The
additional hardware includes nine sensors and two
resolver modules for each boom. The sensors monitor the alignment of the boom and feed. The resolver
module integrates the signals from the sensors into
the rig RCS system and the position and alignment
is displayed on the operator's control panel.

9
8
6
7
4
5

Sensor locations
1. Boom swing angle
2. Boom lift
3. Boom telescope
4. Feed swing
5. Feed lift
6. Feed rotation

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ABC-blad.indd 2

7. Feed look-out
8. Feed extension
9. Hole depth
Also included are two sensors
for rig inclination.

1
3
2

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2004-03-19, 14:21:09

DRILL RIG OPTIONS

Advanced Boom Control - Total

Computer controlled, operator supervised boom and
feed positioning for high quality drilling
Advanced Boom Control, ABC is an optional tool for
New Generation RCS (Rig Control System) Boomer rigs
equipped with BUT 32 or BUT 35 booms. It enables the
holes in a round to be accurately located and drilled.
ABC is available in three levels of automation - Basic,
Regular and Total.
ABC Total provides the highest level of automation, enabling a complete round to be drilled automatically under
the supervision of, but with least interference by, the operator. It is suitable for all applications requiring accurate
location of the drill holes in order to give a desired tunnel
profi le with minimum overbreak and minimum damage
to the surrounding rock. This, together with longer advance,
can give a substantial increase of profit. With ABC Total,
positioning and alignment are carried out by the computers
on the rig and the round is drilled accurately according
to a predetermined drill plan.
ABC Total with high level of automation, automatic round drilling
or semi-automatic drilling or manual drilling, hole to hole move
strategy, boom collision control and hole sequence programming.

Correctly placed drill holes lead to a longer advance, an accurate excavated tunnel profile and minimum damage to
the surrounding rock. The result is significant savings in
the costs of blasting, mucking, reinforcement and, if specified in the contract, filling the overbreak with concrete. In
the drill-blast method of tunnelling and mining, drilling is
the first activity in a series of work procedures. The method
is characterized by its cyclic repetition of the different activities. Each step brings the tunnel face one step forward
into the rock.
Any error introduced during drilling is difficult to rectify
in the ensuing work procedures. Common sources of
human error in positioning and aligning the drill holes are:
Inaccurate marking of the tunnel cross-section on
the face
Inaccurate marking of the contour holes
Incorrect collaring
Inaccurate alignment of the feed

Main Features
Fully automatic positioning, collaring and drilling of a
complete round according to the drill plan and drill sequence designed on the offi ce PC using Atlas Copcos
Tunnel Manager Lite software.
High degree of repeatability ensuring accurate positioning
and drilling of holes round after round.
Four levels of drilling modes to suite a variety of drilling
needs.
In automatic mode, an integrated boom collision detect
function supervises and avoides collision between the
booms.
Integrated function that automatically compensates for
mechanical deflection of the booms and feeds.

Visit www.facedrilling.com for more information

Hardware components
RCS Boomer rigs with BUT 32 or BUT 35 booms can
be equipped with the optional ABC Total tool. The
additional hardware includes nine sensors and two
resolver modules for each boom. The sensors monitor
the alignment of the boom and feed. The resolver
module integrates the signals from the sensors into
the rig RCS system and the alignment is displayed on
the operator's colour screen.

9
8
6
7
4
5

Sensor locations
1. Boom swing
2. Boom lift
3. Boom telescope
4. Feed swing
5. Feed lift
6. Feed rotation

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ABC-blad.indd 3

7. Feed lockout
8. Feed extension
9. Hole depth
Also included are two
sensors for indication
of rig position (X and Y).

1
3
2

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DRILL RIG OPTIONS

Tunnel Manager Lite - TML

Support software for planning, administration and evaluation
of the drilling operation in mining and tunnelling projects

Tunnel Manager Lite, TML, is a Windows-based support

program that runs on a regular stand-alone office PC. It
is primarily used for the creation, organization and administration of drilling and tunnel data for New Generation
Boomer rigs equipped with the new optional function.
Main Features
Different sets of data related to a specific mine or civil
construction project are stored in a hierarchical structure
with easily identifiable headings. This allows easy and
quick retrieval of data.
Well-designed, easy-to-use functions create relevant tunnel information, such as tunnel profiles, drill patterns,
tunnel alignment, etc. Data is easy to create and transfer
between the office PC and Boomer rig.
Description
TML is a specially designed support program that enables
the creation, storage and analysis of vital drilling data for
better drifting and tunnelling operations. It is available
for use with New Generation Boomer rigs equipped with

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ABC-blad.indd 4

the optional ABC Regular, ABC Total, MWD or Boltview

functions. Before starting a tunnel construction project,
the project owner produces a set of drawings and standard
information on the project. TML uses this information to
prepare detailed construction plans, such as tunnel profiles,
drill patterns, tunnel alignment tables and charts defining
the position and alignment of the laser beam. The plans
are prepared on a stand-alone office PC and transferred
to the drill rig on a PC card. Actual data collected during
drilling can be recorded on a PC card at the rig, transferred
back to the office PC and analysed using TML.
TML consists of a set of integrated functions for:
Designing the tunnel alignment
Designing the laser line
Designing the tunnel profile and corresponding drill
pattern
Evaluating the results of drilling from data logged during
drilling
Generating hard copy reports

FACE DRILLING

2004-03-19, 14:21:10

DRILL RIG OPTIONS

Measure While Drilling - MWD

Optional function for evaluation of geological and geomechanical variations
ahead of the tunnel face from data recorded during drilling

One of the most difficult yet extremely important steps in

drifting and tunnelling is to predict the geological and geomechanical properties ahead of the tunnel face, particularly
in stretches where rock formations are expected to vary
considerably. Early prediction of these properties can save
much valuable time and money and improve safety by allowing appropriate measures to be taken before reaching
difficult and dangerous formations. Measure While Drilling,
MWD, is a method for collecting appropriate drilling data
and presenting it systematically on the office PC for evaluation and prediction by experienced onsite staff. In tunnelling and drifting applications, MWD is intended for use on
Boomer rigs equipped with the Rig Control System (RCS).
Main Features
The MWD method has been developed to be an integral
part of the normal drill and blast activities. It does not require any expensive specialised rigs or elaborate set-ups.
A standard Boomer equipped with RCS can be upgraded
for MWD application. Since the procedure of collecting
MWD data can be combined with other normal drilling activities, such as drilling of probe holes, pre-grout holes, or
even normal blast holes, this method can be easily integrated into normal tunnelling activities. MWD can be used
for immediate evaluation in the Tunnel Manager software.
As soon as the recorded data is transferred to a stand-alone
PC, the results can be plotted and evaluated.
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ABC-blad.indd 5

Description
MWD is an optional function designed for use on New
Generation Boomer rigs with RCS. A minimum requirement is that the Boomer rig should be equipped with the
appropriate ABC (Advanced Boom Control) option - ABC
Regular or ABC Total. If collection of data is planned over
a length longer than a single-pass hole, then the feeds
should be equipped for extension drilling. One or all of
the booms on the rig can be equipped for MWD data collection. Eight drilling parameters are recorded at predetermined intervals. The shortest interval is 2 cm. All main
parameters influencing the drilling process are recorded.
These parameters also contain information that collectively can be used to predict the rock formation.
The parameters are:
Feed pressure
Dampener pressure
Penetration rate
Impact pressure
Rotation pressure
Rotation speed
Water pressure
Water flow
The parameters are recorded on the rig on a PC card, which
is then taken to the office PC for downloading and evaluation of the results.
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DRILL RIG OPTIONS

Rig Remote Access

On-line monitoring of drill rigs

External computer

WWW

Mine office computer

Local data network

Worksite's local proxy

server

At the worksite: Computerized rigs

with RCS system and the RRA option

External computer

Mine office computer

Rig Remote Access affords supervision or control of a drill rig

One of the new Atlas Copco functions made available by

RCS is the Rig Remote Access (RRA) option. Since RCS is
based on PC technology and the mining and construction
industry is using computers in data networks more than
ever before, the new Atlas Copco drill rigs are easily connected to the customers site computer network, just as to
any other PC. This enables functionality such as work order
handling, log data transfer, and remote trouble-shooting.
Using RRA, drill plans can be uploaded to the drill rig, or
log files downloaded to the controllers PC, via phone modem or local network connection. Drill rig status can be
observed on-line using a standard web browser on a remote PC. This eliminates the need for manual handling and
transport of memory cards to transfer drill plans and logging information to and from the drill rig.
On worksites with multiple machines running with some
level of automation, a central monitoring and control room
is commonly used. In this kind of set-up, the RCS system
can easily be interfaced, with status and log information
from the rig being transferred on-line via the work sites
data network. The installation is no different than installing
a standard PC to the same data network.

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ABC-blad.indd 6

Rig Remote Access includes a web server on the rig that

allows simple access to the rig using a standard web browser such as the Microsoft Explorer from any PC in the
work site network. RRA also includes functions for file
transfer using the standard file transfer protocol (FTP).
Advantages
Machine monitoring is included in the worksite data
network. There is no requirement for a machine specific
data communication system or network. The rig is
connected directly to the worksite data network. Cost and
support is reduced. The local on-site IT technicians can
carry out rig communication and network support.
Furthermore, reduced costs are possible through:
Rationalisation possibilities for even smaller construction
sites and mines. Cost effective integration into existing
network system due to standard communication protocols (TCP/IP, IREDES). Efficient planning of production and
rig maintenance due to automated information exchange
between the central office and the rig. Increased availability
through on-line expert troubleshooting assistance from
Atlas Copco, if work site data network has Internet
connectivity.

FACE DRILLING

2004-03-19, 14:21:12

DRILL RIG OPTIONS

Safe Bolting System

A boom conversion kit has been developed that allows
the operator to place a rockbolt into the feed or change
drill bit from the safety of the operators platform. This
eliminates the need for the operator to work under unsecured rock, which may be the case when the face drilling
jumbo is used for both bolt hole drilling and installation
of rockbolts.
The problem is solved with a new boom system, based
on the well proven BUT 32/35 booms, which lets the operator put the bolt in the feed and install it while standing
on the platform.
This is accomplished by changing the rotation unit and
the feed holder, and fitting a longer feed tilt cylinder. When
the new components are installed, the feed can rotate a
full 180 from the face, back towards facing the operators
platform.
A dead-mans handle ensures the operator does not inflict
any damage onto him/her self or to the machine. A small
platform is mounted on the side of the rig where the operator can stand to install the bolt, or change a drill bit.
The operator can perform the bolt hole drilling and bolt
installation without leaving the drill rig.

After the drill steel is removed and the bolt installation tool is
attached to the rockdrill, the bolt is placed into the feed.

From the platform the operator can easily put a washer on

the rockbolt or change a drill bit.

The Safe Bolting System includes:

Boom part components for left- or right-hand side
boom
Hydraulic and electric components incl. dead-mans
handle
Platform set for left- or right-hand side mounting
Visit www.facedrilling.com for more information
FACE DRILLING

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2004-03-19, 14:21:13

DRILL RIG OPTIONS

Ergonomically designed workspace

with advanced technology
from a comfortable position. The ergonomically designed
operators seat is vertically and laterally adjustable and
slewable for easy entry. The control levers are located in
the collapsible armrests. Full colour display contains all
the information needed to operate or supervise the drill rig.
Rigs with smaller cabins feature an adjustable operators
seat and ergonomically designed drilling control panel
with large colour display. An optional extra control panel
for a standing operator adds to the cabins flexibility.
Good insulation affords a noise level below 80 dB, and
rubber damping of the cab mounting reduces vibration
and gives greater comfort during tramming. Cabin complies with European and International safety demands
for Falling Object Protective Structure FOPS.

The interplay between man and machine starts in the

operators cabin, and Atlas Copco has expended great
effort in designing a cabin with operator comfort in mind.
Even the smallest details have been considered to produce
a modern workstation. The cabin offers excellent visibility
for both drilling and tramming. The laminated windscreen
is equipped with a large wiper, as is the rear window.
Effective air ventilation clears condensation mist from all
of these windows. The cabin is designed so that the operator can monitor and control the entire drilling process

Right armrest keypad with

control levers for boom and
drilling, buttons for boom
console, service platform,
cabin and selection of different
ABC Total functions.

Left armrest keypad with

boom/feed control lever and
buttons for boom selection,
start and stop, and selection
of ABC Basic or Regular
functions.

Features in summary
Ergonomically designed drilling control panel with
large colour display.
Option of two control panels for 1- and 2-boom rigs.
Option of two control panels for 3-boom rigs with
two sitting or two standing, or one sitting and one
standing opreator. Sitting operator with armrest
controls.
Spacious and comfortable working environment inside
the FOPS-approved cabin.
Improved working and tramming lights.
Excellent visibility for both drilling and tramming.
Noise level below 80 dB(A).
Hydraulically driven air conditioning unit continues
to operate during tramming.

Adjustable operator control

panel with high resolution
colour display.

Increased visibility during

drilling due to the 1.1 metre
cabin lift and wider front
window with no visible frames.

Visit www.facedrilling.com for more information

110

ABC-blad.indd 8

FACE DRILLING

2004-03-19, 14:21:15

DRILL RIG OPTIONS

FAM angle indicator for DCS rigs

A easy-to-use instrument for increased drilling accuracy
linked together so that only one boom has to be aligned
on the laser beam.
The system is also available with hole depth measurement
(option), which instantaneously shows the hole depth
reached when drilling.
FAM is menu-driven with icons which makes it universal
to all languages. A built-in fault indication and fault finding
system helps to detect and locate electronic faults.
FAM is used on rigs with direct controlled drilling system
and with Atlas Copco BUT 28, BUT 32 and BUT 35 booms.
FAM is available in two versions:
I. Shows feed direction and specified drill hole length.
II. Shows feed direction, specified drill hole length,
hole depth reached and total drillmeter.
FAM (Feed Angle Measurement) is a system for measuring
and indicating the direction of the feed. The system calculates the deviation from a reference direction that the alignment of the feed would give in full-depth drilled holes.
The deviation is presented in centimetre and a feed angle.
A reference direction and the full-hole depth (not the
drill steel length) must be specified in order for the
system to present correct values.
The feed direction is shown graphically in the form of an
archery target with the bulls-eye as the reference direction.
If the feed direction differs from the reference direction,
a line is shown which describes the resulting departure
from the reference direction at the bottom of the hole
(full-depth hole).
Deviation can be measured with reference to the drill
rig, or with reference to a laser (or other tunnel reference
line). If more than one FAM is installed on a rig, they are

The main menu is shown

when the system is started.
From here, the working menu
is accessed or the other
alternatives: Sensor angle
menu, Drilling menu, Display
brightness menu. Fault finding
menu or Password menu.

The working menu shows

feed direction and specified
drill hole length. If the system
has hole depth measurement
(option), hole depth reached
and total drill-metre is also
shown here.

Instrumentation (for each boom):

One high resolution colour display with integrated
control keys
Two resolver sensors to measure the horizontal angle
of each boom tripod
One gravitational sensor to measure the dip of the
feed
One
- drill hole depth sensor (if option FAM II is chosen)
One resolver module for calculations and communication
High tensile strength communication cabling to link
together all components
One service tool box for service and maintenance.
Easy to use instrument to:
Increase drilling accuracy
Limit overbreak while keeping tunnel profile
Keep drill holes parallel
Keep the rounds in the right direction

The sensor menu shows

the measured angles, boom
swing, feed swing and feed
inclination.

The fault-finding menu may

show the status of either the
sensors and resolver module
or the display.
Status may be either OK or
NOT OK (crossed-out OK).

Visit www.facedrilling.com for more information

FACE DRILLING

ABC-blad.indd 9

111

2004-03-19, 14:21:17

HYDRAULIC BOOMS

BUT series
Hydraulic booms for tunnelling and mine drilling applications
The BUT series of hydraulic booms offer the
excellent stability and accuracy of movement that
are needed for precision drilling. This also gives fast
positioning, low drill steel costs and straight holes.
They also offer the flexibility needed to serve for
different kinds of drilling tasks.
In addition, BUT booms incorporate features
specially developed to improve ease and speed
in manoeuvring, to enable complete rounds to
be drilled faster. One such feature is the joystick
control for lift and swing movements, which
positions the boom smoothly and swiftly at a
stepless, adjustable speed.

Main features
With the direct positioning system, the boom can be moved
straight to the next collaring location.
Double tripod suspension gives accurate parallel holding in all
directions.
360 degrees feed roll-over gives full coverage of the tunnel face
without any blind spots and with no change in parallelity.
Feed tilt cylinder rotates the feed into vertical position with the
rock drill facing the operator. This gives fast and simple roof
drilling and good supervision of the drilling sequence.
Boom extensions makes it possible to drill two rows of roof or
cross-cut holes from the same set-up.
Main boom joints have axial bearings bushings, and boom joints
for the cylinders are fitted with adjustable expanding shafts all
maintaining the accuracy and operational precision of the boom.

BUT 35G
BUT 35G is a heavy duty boom with a new
powerful rotation unit. Coverage area 92 m
(or 112 m with fixed boom segment). It is
designed for operation within large-size
drifts and underground openings.

BUT 32

BUT 32 is a heavy duty boom with a coverage

area of 41 m. It is designed for operation within
large to medium-size drifts and underground
openings.

BUT 28

BUT 4B
BUT 28 is a heavy duty boom with a coverage
area of 48 m. It is designed for operation
within medium-size drifts and underground
openings.

Technical data
Boom type
Weight, boom only, kg
Feed extension, mm
Telescopic boom extension, mm
Feed roll-over, degrees
Coverage area, m2
Max. weight of feed and rock
drill to be mounted, kg

BUT 4B* BUT 28

1100
1750
1500
1250
900
1250
360
360
23
48
600

700

BUT 32 BUT35G
2860
2075
1800
1800
1600
1250
360
360
92**
41
700

850

*) BUT 4 is also equipped with feed rotation 114 and feed dump cylinder
18 up, 60 down.
**) Coverage area for BUT 35 with 700 mm fixed boom segment is 112 m.

112

But booms.indd 2

BUT 4B is a heavy duty boom with double

rotation devices, which makes it possible to
position the centre-mounted feed vertically on
both sides of the feed. Coverage area of 23 m.
It is designed for use in small-area drifts.

Visit www.facedrilling.com for more information

FACE DRILLING

2004-03-23, 10:08:44

HYDRAULIC DRILL SUPPORT

Atlas Copco hydraulic drill steel support

BSH 110B
The BSH 110B hydraulic drill steel support is used for
extension drilling of longer rounds in combination
with BMH 2000 and 600 feeds.
The drill steel support is remote controlled and
used for manually joining and separating one or
more rods. It grips and holds the threaded joint
when the drill string is extended or retracted.

BSH 110B

Drilling

BSH 110B

Gripping

Extending

Drill rods
Drill through

Main features
Fully compatible with Atlas Copco BMH 2000 and
6000 feeds
Remote controlled from operator platform
Multifunction like gripping, guiding and fully
opened
Interchangeable bushing halves and bushings
for different drill rod dimensions

Visit www.facedrilling.com for more information

FACE DRILLING

BSH 110.indd 1

BSH 110B Kit

Basic kit includes controls, mounting kit, bushing
halves and bushing.
Bushing halves Qty
3128 2021 01
2
3128 2021 02
2
3128 2021 03
2
3128 2021 04
2
3128 2021 05
2
3128 2021 06
2
3128 2021 07
2
3128 2021 08
2

Dimensions
H28
D=40
R32
D=45
H32
D=44
H35
D=44
T38
D=56
T45
D=63
H25
D=36
R28
D=40

Bushing
3128 3025 46
3128 3025 47
3128 3025 48
3128 3025 49
3128 3025 50
3128 3025 51
3128 3025 52
3128 3025 61
3128 3025 62

Qty
1
1
1
1
1
1
1
1
1

Dimensions
D=37
D=33
D=43
D=47
D=59
D=64
D=29
D=41
D=51

113

2004-02-23, 19:17:26

HYDRAULIC DRILL SUPPORT

Atlas Copco hydraulic MAI-bolt support

BSH 110-SDA
The BSH 110-SDA hydraulic MAI-bolt support makes
it possible to semi-mechanize the installation of Atlas
Copco MAI-bolts with Atlas Copco Boomer rigs.
The design with forward reaching gripper arms
makes it possible to reduce the protruding part of
the installed Atlas Copco MAI-bolt to a minimum.

BSH 110-SDA

BSH 110-SDA

Boomer

er

L2

om

cket

Bo

Ro

SDA-range

Main features
Fully compatible with Atlas Copco BMH 2000 and
6000 feeds
Remote controlled from operator platform
Multifunction like gripping, guiding and fully
opened
Interchangeable bushing halves for standard bolt
diameters, R32, R38, and R51
Compatible with SDA shank adapters for COP
1238, COP 1440 and COP 1838 rock drills

Visit www.facedrilling.com for more information

114

BSH 110.indd 2

BSH 110-SDA Kit

Basic kit includes control panel, mounting kit and
bushing halves.
Bushing halves
For Anchor rod R25
For Anchor rod R32
For Anchor rod R38
For Anchor rod R51

3128 2021 23
3128 2021 22
3128 2021 21
3128 2021 20

COP Conversion kit

For COP 1238
For COP 1838
For COP 1440

3128 3124 80
3128 3124 79
3115 3129 90

FACE DRILLING

2004-02-23, 19:17:28

ROD ADDING SYSTEM

RAS 6000
Mechanized rod adding system
RAS 6000 is a mechanized rod adding system for
extension drilling of extra long holes in drifts and
tunnels, using Speedrod extension rods.
The RAS system consists of a control unit, and two
mechanical grippers mounted on the feed beam.
The drilling cycle starts with one Speedrod in the
feed and another in the grippers. When the first
Speedrod is drilled into the rock, the next Speedrod
is added. Additional extension rods can be added.
The two-rod extension drilling almost doubles the
hole depth. The RAS system enables the drilling of

longer rounds, deeper holes for cement injection

around the tunnel profile and long bolt holes in
confined places. It also allows the rig to be used for
exploratory drilling ahead of the face.

Enables drilling of longer rounds

Low weight and small dimensions
Can be used with Atlas Copco BMH 6000 feeds
Can be used with Speedrod dimensions R32, T38
Manually controlled drilling

1. The first SPEEDROD is drilled into the rock.

2. The grippers lift the second rod

into place and drilling continues.

3. When the hole is finished, the RAS system

uncouples and removes the rod.

Visit www.facedrilling.com for more information

FACE DRILLING

RAS 6000.indd 1

115

2004-02-25, 10:15:50

HYDRAULIC FEED

Hydraulic feeds BMH-series

BMH 2000

BMH 2000 and 6000

The BMH 2000 series feeds are intended for
medium-sized and small drill rigs, while the BMH
6000 series are for medium-sized and heavy drill
rigs. Hole depth has been maximized in relation
to overall length to enable the longest possible
rounds to be drilled in confined spaces.
Feed range

Intended for
rock drill

Drill steel length

mm

The BMH feeds feature strong aluminium beams

with extremely high resistance against bending
and torsional stresses. All surfaces exposed to
wear are protected by stainless-steel guide sleeves
and all sliding parts are easily replaceable.
Feeding depth
mm

COP 1238
2500 - 4920
2205 - 4625
BMH 2325 - BMH 2349
COP 1238
3700 - 6100
3443 - 5843
BMH 6312 - BMH 6320
COP 1432
2500 - 4310
2180 - 4600
BMH 2625 - BMH 2649
COP 1432
3700 - 6100
3345 - 5745
BMH 6612 - BMH 6620
COP 1838
2500 - 4920
2205 - 4625
BMH 2825 - BMH 2849
COP 1838
3700 - 6400
3443 - 6140
BMH 6812 - BMH 6821
Feed force BMH 2000 - 12,5/15,0 kN (at 80/100 bar); BMH 6000 - 20 kN (at 100 bar)
* = with hoses, without rock drill and drill steel.

BMHS 2000

Total length
mm

Net weight*
kg

4087 - 6507
5287 - 7777
3697 - 6117
4910 - 7310
4087 - 6507
5287 - 7977

285 - 365
424 - 540
265 - 350
410 - 525
290 - 370
430 - 580

BMHE 2000

BMHS 2000 and BMHE 2000

The BMHS and BMHE 2000 series feeds are short
units intended for use in very confined spaces.
With their side-mounted hose drum and short
cradle, they can use drill steels 300 mm
longer than standard feeds of the same overall
length.

On BMHE 2000 the front drill-steel support is

mounted in a telescopic arrangement that can be
extended by up to 700 mm to enable even longer
drill steels - and drill steels of different lengths - to
be used as necessary. The maximum possible drillsteel length differential is 700 mm.

Feed range

Intended for
rock drill

Drill steel length

mm

Feeding depth
mm

Total length
mm

Net weight*
kg

BMHS 2625 - BMHS 2643

COP 1432

2500 - 4310

2181 - 3991

3354 - 5164

260 - 318

Drill steel length

min/max
mm

Feeding depth
min/max
mm

Total length
Retract/extract
mm

Net weight*

2100 - 2800
2400 - 3190
2700 - 3400
3090 - 3700

1746 - 2446
2046 - 2736
2346 - 3056
2736 - 3346

2964 - 3665
3264 - 3955
3564 - 4265
3954 - 4565

300
320
335
350

Feed force 12,5 kN, 2800 Ibf

* = with hoses, without rock drill and drill steel
Feed type

Intended for
rock drill

COP 1432
BMHE 2628 - 21
COP 1432
BMHE 2631 - 24
COP 1432
BMHE 2634 - 27
COP 1432
BMHE 2637 - 31
Feed force 12.5 kN, 2800 lbf
* = with hoses, without rock drill and drill steel.

116

BMH.indd 2

kg

FACE DRILLING

2004-02-25, 11:05:39

HYDRAULIC FEED

Hydraulic telescopic feeds BMHT-series

BMHT 2000

BMHT 2000 and 6000

The BMHT 2000 and 6000 series telescopic feeds
are ideal for use in confined spaces where they
facilitate multi-tasking, e.g. drifting, roof-hole and
cross-cut drilling, always permitting longest possible
rounds to be drilled. The front drill-steel support is
Feed type

BMHT 2331 - 19
BMHT 2337 - 22
BMHT 2337 - 25
BMHT 2343 - 25
BMHT 2631 - 19
BMHT 2637 - 22
BMHT 2643 - 25
BMHT 2831 - 19
BMHT 2837 - 22
BMHT 2837 - 25
BMHT 2843 - 25

Intended for
rock drill
COP 1238
COP 1238
COP 1238
COP 1238
COP 1432
COP 1432
COP 1432
COP 1838
COP 1838
COP 1838
COP 1838

mounted on a telescopic feed beam that can be

extended (depending on feed size) by up to 1.2, 1.5
or 1.8 m for BMHT 2000 and 1.8 or 2.4 m for BMHT
6000, to enable two drill steel lengths - and drill
steels of different lengths - to be used.

Drill steel length

min/max
mm

Feeding depth
min/max
mm

Total length
Retract/extract
mm

Net weight*

1900 - 3090
2200 - 3700
2500 - 3700
2500 - 4310
1900 - 3090
2200 - 3700
2500 - 4310
1900 - 3090
2200 - 3700
2500 - 3700
2500 - 4310

1608 - 2798
1908 - 3408
2208 - 3408
2208 - 4018
1633 - 2823
1933 - 3433
2233 - 4043
1608 - 2798
1908 - 3408
2208 - 3408
2208 - 4018

3407 - 4607
3707 - 5217
4007 - 5217
4007 - 5827
3107 - 4297
3407 - 4907
3707 - 5517
3407 - 4607
3707 - 5217
4007 - 5217
4007 - 5827

405
420
425
435
392
407
430
410
425
430
440

Drill steel length

min/max
mm

Feeding depth
min/max
mm

Total length
Retract/extract
mm

Net weight*
kg

2500 - 4310
3090 - 4920
3090 - 5530
2500 - 4310
3090 - 4920
3700 - 6100
2500 - 4310
3090 - 4920
3090 - 5530

2221 - 4036
2813 - 4638
2813 - 5258
2130 - 3940
2720 - 4545
3330 - 5730
2221 - 4036
2813 - 4638
2813 - 5258

4090 - 5900
4680 - 6500
4680 - 7125
3725 - 5535
4315 - 6140
4925 - 7325
4090 - 5900
4680 - 6500
4680 - 7125

635
655
680
610
640
690
635
680
690

kg

Feed force 12.5 kN (at 80 bar)

* = with hoses, without rock drill and drill steel.
Feed type

Intended for
rock drill

COP 1238
BMHT 6314 - 08
COP 1238
BMHT 6316 - 10
COP 1238
BMHT 6318 - 10
COP 1432
BMHT 6614 - 08
COP 1432
BMHT 6616 - 10
COP 1432
BMHT 6620 - 12
COP 1838
BMHT 6814 - 08
COP 1838
BMHT 6816 - 10
COP 1838
BMHT 6818 - 10
Feed force 20.0 kN
* = with hoses, without rock drill and drill steel.

Visit www.facedrilling.com for more information

FACE DRILLING

BMH.indd 3

117

2004-02-25, 11:05:41

FD3/Page 118

29/3/04

7:37 am

Page 118

DRIFTING EQUIPMENT

Drifting

Drill bit designs

Model -17

Model -27

Model -34

Model -37

Model -37-66

2+3 gauge buttons,

2 front buttons.
Model -17 is specially designed
for bolting. Available with
spherical or ballistic (-67)
buttons.

2+3 gauge buttons,

2 smaller front buttons.
With its large buttons,
model -27 is ideal for medium
hard to hard abrasive rock. It is
available with spherical or
ballistic (-67) buttons.

3+3 gauge buttons,

2 front buttons.
Model -34 offers very good
penetration. Ideal for most
rock formations including hard
rock. Available with spherical
or ballistic (-67) buttons.

2+2+2 gauge buttons,

3 front buttons.
With 9 buttons and superb
flushing, model -37 bits offer
very good penetration. Ideal
for most rock formations
including hard rock with heavy
frontal wear on the bit.
Available with spherical or
ballistic (-67) buttons.

2+2+2 gauge buttons,

3 front buttons.
With 9 full-ballistic buttons and
excellent flushing with extra
flushing grooves model -37-66
offers extremely good
penetration rate in soft rock.
The bit has been developed
mainly for soft rock but has
also been tested successfully
in medium hard rock.

Model -27-30

Model -37-30

Guide bit.
Square skirt.
Ideal where hole deviation is a problem.
Longer service life, better penetration
rate and longer grinding intervals
compared to a cross-type bit, which is
normally used to avoid hole deviations.
Suitable for most rock formations
including hard rock. Available with
spherical or ballistic (-67) buttons.

Model -39

Model -56

Model -42

Cross-type bit

2+2+2 gauge buttons,

3 smaller front buttons.
With its larger gauge
buttons, model -39 is ideal
for abrasive rock. Available
with spherical buttons.

2+2 gauge buttons,

2 smaller front buttons.
Traditionally used in hard
rock formations, model -56
delivers excellent
penetration rate. Available
only with spherical buttons.

Reaming bit.
Dome-shaped front.
Model -42 is a new
alternative to traditional
reaming equipment. Use in
a pre-drilled pilot hole. Tried
and tested with excellent
results.

4 chisel inserts in cross

formation.
Traditional insert bit for
extremely abrasive rock
formations. Ideal for soft
formations that cause
snakeskin problems for
carbide. Produces straight
holes but has lower
penetration and shorter
service life than button bits.

- 5 XXX
Flat face button bit

- 6 XXX
Drop centre button bit

- XXXX - 67
Ballistic buttons

- XXXX - 45
Retrac skirt

118

Please observe that all button bits are manufactured over-sized

1.01.5 mm, meaning that for example a 45 mm bit is at least
46 mm as new and a 89 mm bit 90 mm. This is done because of
the fast initial wear on button bits. When it is of importance,
also consider that the hole is always 13 mm bigger than the bit
dimension depending on rock formation.

FACE DRILLING

FD3/Page 119

29/3/04

7:37 am

Page 119

DRIFTING EQUIPMENT

Drifting

SR28 mm (118")

MAGNUM SR28
thread system

28 mm (118") diameter thread

25 mm (1") diameter thread

33% more material means a substantial

increase in metal fatigue resistance
FOCUS button
bit technology

Conical shaped rope thread

facilitates rapid coupling and uncoupling

Shank adapter

More material at the bit head

Coupling

Hex. drifter rod

Button bit

Drill bit designs

-5xxx-17

Drill bit
Button bit

-5xxx-27

-5xxx-41

Flushing hole
Side
Centre

Weight
approx
kg

7
7
7
7
7

57
58
59
59
59

27
27
27
27
27

35
40
25
35
30

15
10
15

1
1
1
1
1

1
1
1
1
1

0.4
0.4
0.5
0.5
0.5

Ballistic buttons
33
11964
35
138

125-5033-41-67, 39-20
125-5035-27-67,39-20

7
7

58
59

27
27

40
25

15
10

1
1

1
1

0.3
0.4

No. of
buttons

Length (L)

Hex 35 mm (138")

Fully carburized. Rod section 39.3 mm

FACE DRILLING

Buttons angle
Gauge Centre

125-5033-17,39-20
125-5033-41,39-20
125-5035-27,39-20
125-5037-99,39-20
125-5038-27,39-20

Part No.
SR35 thread

Drifter rod
SR28 mm (118")

Buttons 
button diameter
Gauge
Centre

Diameter
mm
inch
Spherical buttons
33
11964
33
11964
35
138
37
12964
38
112

R32 mm (114")

mm

foot/inch

1800
2100
2200
2300
2400
2475
2600
2675
2800
3000
3000
3090

5'11"
7'
7'4"
7'8"
7'10"
8'138"
8'618"
8'914"
9'214"
10'
10'
10'312"

Part No.
SR28/R32
225-0418-03-C, 02
225-0421-03-C, 02
225-0422-03-C, 02
225-0423-03-C, 02
225-0424-03-C,02
225-0425-03-91-C, 02
225-0426-03-C, 02
225-0427-03-91-C, 02
225-0428-03-C, 02
225-0430-03-C, 02
225-0430-03-91-C,02
225-0431-03-C, 02

Weight
approx kg
8.9
10.4
11.0
11.4
12.2
13.0
12.9
13.3
14.3
15.0
14.9
15.8

119

FD3/Page 120

29/3/04

7:38 am

Page 120

DRIFTING EQUIPMENT

Drifting

R28 mm (118")
Button bit

Shank adapter

Coupling

Guide button bit

Hex. drifter rod

Cross-type bit

Reaming equipment

Drill bit designs

-5xxx-27

-5xxx-27-30

Drill bit
Button bit

-5xxx-37

-5xxx-56

Diameter
mm
inch
Spherical buttons
37
38
38
41
41
43
43
45

12964
112
112
158
158
11116
11116
134

Cross-type bit

Part No.
Rope thread

Buttons 
button diameter
Gauge
Centre

No. of
buttons

Gauge
buttons
angle

Flushing hole
Side
Centre

Weight
approx
kg

107-5037-27, 39-20
107-5038-27, 39-20
107-5038-56, 39-20
107-5041-27, 39-20
107-5041-27-30, 39-20
107-5043-27, 39-20
107-5043-27-30, 39-20
107-5045-37, 39-20

7
7
6
7
7
7
7
9

59
59
49
59
59
59
59
69

27
27
28
28
28
29
29
38

30
30
30
35
35
35
35
35

1
1
2
1
1
2
1
1

1
1
1
1
1
1
1
1

0.5
0.6
0.6
0.7
0.9
0.7
0.9
0.8

107-5038-27-67, 39-20
107-5041-27-67, 39-20

7
7

59
59

27
28

40
40

1
1

1
1

0.6
0.7

Ballistic buttons
38
41

112
158

Insert
Cross-type bit
38
41
41
45

1 2
158
158
134
1

107-7038-44, 20-17
107-7041-44, 20-17
107-7041-44-30, 20-17
107-7045-44, 20-17

Width

Height

10.3
11.1
11.1
11.1

19.5
20.0
20.0
20.0

0.6
0.7
0.9
0.9

SECOROC Grind Matic:

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120

FACE DRILLING

FD3/Page 121

29/3/04

7:38 am

Page 121

DRIFTING EQUIPMENT

Drifting

R28 mm (118")
Length (L)

Drifter rod
R28 mm (118")

Hex 28 mm (118")

mm
2400
2750
3700
4000
4310
4920

foot/inch
7'10"
9'
12'112"
13'138"
14'112"
16'112"

Hex 32 mm (114")

R38 mm (112")

2900
3090
3700
4310

R32 mm (114")

Weight
approx kg

207-0424-03-C,02
207-0428-03-91-C,02
207-0437-03-C,02
207-0440-03-C,02
207-0443-03-C,02
207-0449-03-C,02

12.2
14.4
18.9
20.5
22.0
25.3

9'618"
10'112"
12'112"
14'112"

207-0529-04-C,02
207-0531-04-C,02
207-0537-04-C,02
207-0543-04-C,02

18.8
20.0
24.0
27.9

3090

10'112"

207-0531-03-C,02

19.7

3700

12'112"

207-0537-03-C,02

23.5

R32 mm (114")

3090
3700
4000
4310

10'112"
12112"
13138"
14'112"

207-0531-03-78-C,02
207-0537-03-78-C,02
207-0540-03-78-C,02
207-0543-03-78-C,02

20.0
24.0
25.9
27.9

R38 mm (112")

2475
4310

8'138"
14'112"

207-0424-04-91-C,02
207-0443-04-C,02

12.6
22.0

R32 mm (114")

Fully carburized. Rod section 32 mm

R28 mm (118")

Part No.
Rope thread

Fully carburized. Rod section 35.8 mm

R28 mm (118")

Hex 32 mm (114")

Fully carburized. Rod section 35.8 mm

R28 mm (118")

Hex 32 mm (114")

With slimmed shank end for female shank adapters.

Fully carburized. Rod section 35.8 mm
R28 mm (118")

Hex 28 mm (118")

Fully carburized. Rod section 32 mm

Coupling

Thread diameter
mm
inch
32
114
38
112

Diameter
mm
inch
44
134
55
2532

Length (L)
mm inch
150
618
170
634

Part No.
Rope thread
303-0044,00
304-0055,00

Weight
approx kg
1.0
1.7

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FACE DRILLING

121

FD3/Page 122

29/3/04

7:39 am

Page 122

DRIFTING EQUIPMENT

Drifting

R32 mm (114")
Button bit
Hex. drifter rod
Guide button bit

Shank adapter

Coupling

Round drifter rod

Cross-type bit

Dome reaming bit

Hex. Speedrod

Reaming equipment

Drill bit designs

-5xxx-27

Drill bit
Button bit

122

-5xxx-34-67

-5xxx-37-67

Diameter
mm
inch
Spherical buttons
41
158
41
158

-5xxx-37-30-67 -5xxx-37-66

Part No.
R32 thread

No. of
buttons

-5xxx-56

-5076

Buttons 
button diameter
Gauge
Centre

-6064-45

Gauge
buttons
angle

Cross-type bit

Flushing hole
Side
Centre

Weight
approx
kg

103-5041-27,39-20
103-5041-56,39-20

7
6

59
49

28
29

35
35

1
2

1
1

0.8
0.6

43

11116

103-5043-27,39-20

59

29

35

0.7

45
45
45

1 4
134
134

103-5045-27,39-20
103-5045-37,39-20
103-5045-39,39-20

7
9
9

5  11
69
6  10

28
38
38

30
35
30

2
1
1

1
3
3

0.8
0.8
0.8

48
48

178
178

103-5048-27,39-20
103-5048-37,39-20

7
9

5  11
6  10

29
38

35
40

2
1

1
3

1.0
0.9

51
51
51
51

2
2
2
2

103-5051-27,39-20
103-5051-37,39-20
103-6051,49-20
103-6051-45,49-20

7
9
9
9

5  11
6  10
6  10
6  10

2  10
39
39
39

35
40
30
30

2
1

1
3
3
3

1.0
1.0
1.0
1.2

57

214

103-5057-20,39-20

6  11

39

35

1.1

64
64
64
64

212
212
212
212

103-5064,49-20
103-5064-45,49-20
103-6064,49-20
103-6064-45,49-20

12
12
10
10

8  10
8  10
6  11
6  11

4  10
4  10
3  10, 1  10
3  10, 1  10

40
40
35
35

2
2
3
3

1.5
2.2
1.5
2.2

76
76

3
3

103-5076,49-20
103-6076-45,49-20

12
13

8  11
8  11

4  11
4  11, 1  11

40
35

2
4

1.8
3.5

FACE DRILLING

FD3/Page 123

29/3/04

7:39 am

Page 123

DRIFTING EQUIPMENT

Drifting
Drill bit, cont
Button bit

R32 mm (114")

Diameter
mm
inch
Ballistic buttons
41
158

Part No.
R32 thread

Buttons 
button diameter
Gauge
Centre

No. of
buttons

Gauge
buttons
angle

Flushing hole
Side
Centre

Weight
approx
kg

103-5041-27-67,39-20

59

28

40

0.7

43
43

1 16
11116

103-5043-27-67,39-20
103-5043-37-67,39-20

7
9

59
68

29
38

40
40

2
1

1
3

0.7
0.7

45
45
45
45

134
134
134
134

103-5045-27-67,39-20
103-5045-34-67,39-20
103-5045-37-67,39-20
103-5045-37-30-67,39-20

7
8
9
9

5  11
69
69
69

28
29
38
38

30
40
40
40

2
2
1
1

1
2
3
3

0.8
0.8
0.8
1.1

48
48

178
178

103-5048-37-67,39-20
103-5048-37-30-67,39-20

9
8

6  10
6  10

38
28

40
25

1
1

3
3

0.9
1.2

51
51
51

2
2
2

103-5051-37-67,39-20
103-5051-37-45-67,49-20
103-5051-37-30-67,39-20

9
9
9

6  10
6  10
6  10

39
39
39

40
40
40

1
1
1

3
3
3

1.0
1.1
1.6

54

218

103-5054-37-67,39-20

11

103-5064-67,49-20
64
212
Soft rock bits (full-ballistic buttons)

6  10

39

40

1.0

12

8  10

4  10

40

1.5

45

134

103-5045-37-66,39-20

69

38

40

0.8

48

1 8

103-5048-37-66,39-20

69

39

40

0.8

51

103-5051-37-66,39-20

6  10

39

40

0.8

Insert
Cross-type bit

X-type bit

41
43
45
48
51
51
57
64
76

158
11116
134
178
2
2
214
212
3

103-7041-44, 20-17
103-7043-44, 20-17
103-7045-44, 20-17
103-7048-38, 02-17
103-7051-38, 02-17
103-7051-38-45, 02-17
103-7057, 02-17
103-7064, 08-17
103-8076,08-16

Hex 32 mm (114")

R/T38 mm (112")

Fully carburized. Rod section 35.8 mm

R32 mm (114")

Height
20.0
20.0
20.0
22.0
22.0
22.0
19.5
19.5
26.0

Length (L)

Drifter rod
R32 mm (114")

Width
11.1
11.1
11.1
14.0
14.0
14.0
10.3
10.3
14.0

Hex 32 mm (114")

R38 mm (112")

mm
2400
3090
3400
4000
4310
4920
5530
3700
4310

foot/inch
7'10"
10'112"
11'134"
13'138"
14'112"
16'112"
18'112"
12'112"
14'112"

0.7
0.8
0.9
0.9
1.2
1.7
1.3
1.4
1.7

Part No.
Rope thread
203-0524-04-C,02
203-0531-04-C,02
203-0540-04-C,02
203-0543-04-C,02
203-0549-04-C,02
203-0555-04-C,02
203-0537-04-95-C,00
203-0543-04-95-C,02

T thread
203-0531-35-C,02
203-0534-35-C,02
203-0543-35-C,02
203-0549-35-C,02
203-0555-35-C,02

Weight
approx kg
15.3
19.8
22.0
25.6
27.5
31.3
34.8
23.6
27.5

Double thread, fully carburized. Rod section 35.8 mm

FACE DRILLING

123

FD3/Page 124

29/3/04

7:39 am

Page 124

DRIFTING EQUIPMENT

Drifting

R32 mm (114")
Length (L)

Drifter rod
R32 mm (114")

Hex 35 mm (138")

R/T38 mm (112")

Fully carburized. Rod section 39.3 mm

R32 mm (114")

Hex 35 mm (138")

T38 mm (112")

Part No.

mm
3090
3700
4000
4310
4920
5530
6100
3700
4310
4920
5530
6400

foot/inch
10'112"
12'112"
13'112"
14'112"
16'112"
18'112"
20'
12'112"
14'112"
16'112"
18'112"
21'

Rope thread
203-0631-04-C,02
203-0637-04-C,02
203-0640-04-C,02
203-0643-04-C,02
203-0649-04-C,02
203-0655-04-C,02
203-0661-04-C,02

4310
4920

14'
16'112"

203-2843-04-C,02

T thread
203-0631-35-C,02
203-0637-35-C,02
203-0643-35-C,02
203-0649-35-C,02
203-0655-35-C,02
203-0661-35-C,02
203-0637-35-MF-C,02
203-0643-35-MF-C,02
203-0649-35-MF-C,02
203-0655-35-MF-C,02
203-0664-35-MF-C,02

Weight
approx kg
24.0
29.1
31.1
33.1
37.8
42.4
47.3
29.0
34.1
38.8
43.6
50.3

Speedrod, fully carburized. D = 57 mm. Rod section 39.3 mm

R32 mm (114")

Round 39 mm (11732")

R/T38 mm (112")

203-2849-35-C,02

37.3
42.1

Fully carburized.

Coupling

Thread diameter
mm
inch
38
112
38
112

Diameter
mm
inch
52
2364
55
2532

Length (L)
mm
inch
170
634
170
634

Part No.
Rope thread
T thread
335-0052,00*
304-0055,00
335-0055,00

Weight
approx kg
1.5
1.9

* Recommended for high frequency drifters.

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124

FACE DRILLING

FD3/Page 125

29/3/04

7:40 am

Page 125

DRIFTING EQUIPMENT

Drifting

SR35 mm (138")

MAGNUM SR
thread system

35 mm diameter thread

32 mm diameter thread

25% more material means a substantial

increase in metal fatigue resistance
FOCUS button
bit technology

More material at the bit head

Conical shaped rope thread

facilitates rapid coupling and uncoupling

Button bit

Hex. drifter rod

Shank adapter

Coupling
Guide button bit

Round drifter rod

Dome reaming bit

Hex. Speedrod

Reaming equipment

Round Speedrod

Drill bit designs

-5xxx-27

Drill bit
Button bit

* Reversed flushing

FACE DRILLING

-5xxx-37-67

Diameter
mm
inch
Spherical buttons
43
11116
45
134
45
134
48
178
Ballistic buttons
45
134
48
178
48
178
51
2
51
2
54
218
54
218
64
212

-5xxx-37-30-67

-5xxx-39

Part No.
SR35 thread

No. of
buttons

-5064
Buttons 
button diameter
Gauge
Centre

Gauge
buttons
angle

Flushing hole
Side
Centre

Weight
approx
kg

128-5043-27,39-20
128-5045-37-30-67,39-20
128-5045-39,39-20
128-5048-39,39-20

7
9
9
9

59
69
6  10
6  11

29
38
38
38

35
40
30
35

2
1
1
1

1
3
3
3

0.7
1.0
0.8
0.9

128-5045-37-67,39-12
128-5048-37-67,39-20
128-5048-37-30-67,39-20
128-5051-37-67,39-20
128-5051-37-30-67,39-20
128-5054-24-45-67,39-20*
128-5054-37-67,39-20
128-5064-67,49-20

9
9
9
9
9
11
9
12

69
6  10
6  10
6  10
6  10
89
6  10
8  10

38
38
38
39
39
39
39
4  10

40
40
40
40
40
35
40
40

1
1
1
1
1
2
1

3
3
3
3
3
1
3
2

0.7
0.8
1.1
0.9
1.3
1.8
1.0
1.6

125

FD3/Page 126

29/3/04

7:40 am

Page 126

DRIFTING EQUIPMENT

Drifting

SR35 mm (138")

Drifter rod
SR35 mm (138")

Hex 35 mm (138")

R/T38 mm (112")

Fully carburized. Rod section 39.3 mm

SR35 mm (138")

Hex 35 mm (138")

T38 mm (112")

Length (L)
mm
foot/inch
2670
8'9"
3090
10'112"
3150
10'4"
3300
10'10"
3700
12'112"
4310
14'112"
4920
16'112"
5530
18'112"
6400
21'
4310
14'112"

Part No.
Weight
SR35/T38 thread
approx kg
228-0627-35-91-C,02
21.0
228-0631-04-C,02
24.0
228-0632-35-91-C,02
24.5
228-0633-04-C,02
25.6
228-0637-04-C,02
228-0637-35-C,02
29.1
228-0643-04-C,02
228-0643-35-C,02
33.1
228-0649-04-C,02
228-0649-35-C,02
37.8
228-0655-35-C,02
42.4
228-0664-35-C,02
49.7
228-0643-35-MF-C,02
34.1
SR35/R38 thread

Speedrod, fully carburized. D = 57 mm. Rod section 39.3 mm

SR35 mm (138")

Round 39 mm (11732")

T38 mm (112")

Round 39 mm (11732")

T38 mm (112")

5530

18'112"

228-2855-35-C,02

47.3

5530

18'112"

228-2855-35-MF-C,02

46.9

Fully carburized.
SR35 mm (138")

Speedrod, fully carburized. D = 57 mm

Thread diameter
mm
inch
38
112
38
112

Coupling

Diameter
mm
inch
52
2364
55
2532

Length (L)
mm
inch
170
634
170
634

Part No.
T thread
335-0052,00*
304-0055,00
335-0055,00

Rope thread

Weight
approx kg
1.5
1.9

* Recommended for high frequency rock drills.

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126

FACE DRILLING

FD3/Page 127

29/3/04

7:40 am

Page 127

DRIFTING EQUIPMENT

Drifting

R35 mm (138")

Shank adapter

Coupling

Hex. drifter rod

Button bit

Round drifter rod

Guide bit

Dome reaming bit

Hex. Speedrod

Reaming equipment

Round Speedrod

Drill bit designs

-5xxx-37-67

Drill bit
Button bit

5xxx-37-66

-5xxx-27-30

Diameter
mm
inch
Spherical buttons
48
48
51
51
51
51

178
178
2
2
2
2

-5xxx-39

-5064-67

Part No.
R35 thread
109-5048-37,39-20
109-5048-39,39-20
109-5051-37,39-20
109-5051-39,39-20
109-6051,39-20
109-6051-45,49-20

Ballistic buttons
109-5048-37-67,39-20
48
178
109-5048-37-30-67,39-20
48
178
51
2
109-5051-37-67,39-20
51
2
109-5051-37-30-67,39-20
Soft rock bits (full ballistic buttons)
48
51

178
2

109-5048-37-66,39-20
109-5051-37-66,39-20

-6051-45

No. of
buttons

Buttons 
button diameter
Gauge
Centre

Gauge
buttons
angle

Weight
Flushing hole
approx
kg
Side
Centre

9
9
9
9
9
9

6  10
6  11
6  10
6  11
6  10
6  10

38
38
39
39
39
39

35
35
40
35
30
30

1
1
1
1

3
3
3
3
3
3

0.9
0.9
1.0
1.0
0.9
1.1

9
9
9
9

6  10
6  10
6  10
6  10

38
38
39
39

40
40
40
40

1
1
1
1

3
3
3
3

0.9
1.3
0.9
1.4

9
9

69
6  10

39
39

40
40

1
1

3
3

0.8
0.9

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FACE DRILLING

127

FD3/Page 128

29/3/04

7:41 am

Page 128

DRIFTING EQUIPMENT

Drifting

R35 mm (138")
Length (L)

Drifter rod
R35 mm (138")

Hex 35 mm (138")

T38 mm (112")

Part No.
T thread

Weight
approx kg

mm
3700
4920
5530
6100

foot/inch
12'112"
16'112"
18'112"
20'

209-0637-35-C,02
209-0649-35-C,02
209-0655-35-C,02
209-0661-35-C,02

28.5
37.8
42.4
47.0

5530
6100

18'112"
20'

209-0655-35-MF-C,02
209-0661-35-MF-C,02

44.0
48.0

4310
4920
5530
6100

14'112"
16'112"
18'112"
20'

209-2843-35-C,02
209-2849-35-C,02
209-2855-35-C,02
209-2861-35-C,02

37.0
42.1
48.0
53.5

5530
6100

18'112"
20'

209-2855-35-MF-C,02
209-2861-35-MF-C,02

46.9
52.0

Fully carburized. Rod section 39.3 mm

R35 mm (138")

Hex 35 mm (138")

T38 mm (112")

Speedrod, fully carburized. D = 57 mm. Rod section 39.3 mm

R35 mm (138")

Round 39 mm (11732")

T38 mm (112")

Fully carburized.
R35 mm (138")

Round 39 mm (11732")

T38 mm (112")

Speedrod, fully carburized. D = 57 mm.

Thread diameter
mm
inch
38
112
38
112

Coupling

Diameter
mm
inch
55
2532
52
2364

Length (L)
mm inch
190
712
190
712

Part No.
T thread
335-0055,00
335-0052,00*

Weight
approx kg
1.9
1.5

*Recommended for high frequency rock drills.

Rock Reinfo
rcement
second editio
n
www.rockrei
nforcement.
com

Talking Tec
hnically
Case Studie
s
Product Sp
ecifications

140 exciting pages

all about
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erence editio
n

128

FACE DRILLING

FD3/Page 129

29/3/04

7:41 am

Page 129

DRIFTING EQUIPMENT

Drifting
Drill bit, 6 taper
Reaming button bit for
22 mm (78") pilot rod and
25 mm (1"), 28 mm (118"),
32 mm(114") pilot adapter.

Reaming equipment Hex 22 mm (78"), R25 (1"), R28 (118),

R32 (114), SR35 (138), R35 (138)
Diameter
mm

inch

Part No.

64
76
89

212
3
312

175-5064,39-20
175-5076,39-20
175-5089,39-20

For 64, 76 and 89 mm reaming button and cross-type bits.

For 89, 102 and 127 mm reaming button bits.

For 89, 102 and 127 mm reaming button bits.

FACE DRILLING

35
35
35

0.8
1.2
1.7

Weight
approx kg

inch

Part No.

800

2'712"

575-3108,11-17

3.3

1200

3'11"

575-3112,11-17

4.4

1600

5'3"

575-3116,11-17

5.6

2000

6'7"

575-3120,11-17

7.0

2400

7'10"

575-3124,11-17

8.2

mm

inch

mm

inch

Pilot
hole
mm

25

26

1132

36

502-2303,00-17

1.3

28

118

26

1132

36

507-2503,00-17

1.5

32

114

26

1132

36

503-2603,00-17

1.5

SR35

1 8

26

1 32

36

528-2603,00

1.5

Thread

Pilot adapter, 6 taper

Pilot adapter, 12 taper

29
2  11
4  11

mm

22 mm (78") hex. Shank length 108 mm (414")

Reaming button bit for

28 mm (118"),
32 mm (114") and
35 mm (138") pilot adapter.

8  10
8  11
8  11

10
10
12

Gauge
buttons Weight
angle approx kg

Length

Pilot rod, 6 taper

Drill bit, 12 taper

Buttons 
button diameter
Gauge
Centre

Number
of buttons

Diameter

Diameter

Number
of buttons

Part No.
Rope Thread

Buttons 
button diameter
Gauge
Centre

Weight
approx kg

Gauge
buttons Weight
angle approx kg

mm

inch

Part No.

89

312

187-5089-20,39-20

102

187-5102,39-20

12

8  12.7

4  12.7

35

2.0

102

187-5102-20,39-20

12

8  11.0

4  12.7

35

2.1

127

187-5127,39-20

20

12  12.7 8  12.7

35

4.0

8  12.7

12

4  10.0

35

1.8

mm

inch

mm

inch

Pilot
hole
mm

28

118

36

11332

3848

507-7802,00-17

2.6

32

114

40

1932

4148

503-7802,00-17

2.2

R35

1 8

40

1 32

4851

509-7802,00-17

2.2

SR35

138

40

1932

4851

528-7802,00-17

2.3

32

114

4148

503-7902,00

2.1

35

138

4854

509-7902,00

2.1

Thread

Diameter

Part No.
Rope Thread

Weight
approx kg

129

FD3/Page 130

29/3/04

7:42 am

Page 130

DRIFTING EQUIPMENT

Drifting

Dome bits for reaming

R32 (1 4), SR35 (138), R35 (138)
1

-5076-42-24-67

Thread
mm
inch

-5089-42-24

Diameter
mm
inch

-5102-42-24-67

No. of
buttons

Part No.

Buttons 
button diameter
Gauge
Centre

Gauge
buttons
angle

Flushing hole
Side
Centre

Weight
approx
kg

Spherical buttons
R32

114

76

103-5076-42-24,49-20

10

9  12.7

1  12.7

35

2.0

R32

114

89

312

103-5089-42-24,49-20

15

14  12.7

1  12.7

35

2.5

R32

114

102

103-5102-42-24,49-20

17

16  12.7

1  12.7

35

3.2

R32

114

127

103-5127-42-24,49-20

19

18  12.7

1  12.7

35

4.8

SR35

1 8

89

3 2

128-5089-42-24,49-20

15

14  12.7

1  12.7

35

2.5

SR35

138

102

128-5102-42-24,49-20

17

16  12.7

1  12.7

35

3.1

SR35

138

127

128-5127-42-24,49-20

19

18  12.7

1  12.7

35

4.8

R35

138

102

109-5102-42-24,49-20

17

16  12.7

1  12.7

35

3.1

Ballistic buttons
R32

114

76

103-5076-42-24-67,49-20

10

9  12.7

1  12.7

35

2.0

R32

114

89

312

103-5089-42-24-67,49-20

15

14  12.7

1  12.7

35

2.5

R32

114

102

103-5102-42-24-67,49-20

17

16  12.7

1  12.7

35

3.2

R32

1 4

127

103-5127-42-24-67,49-20

19

18  12.7

1  12.7

35

4.8

SR35

138

76

128-5076-42-24-67,49-20

10

9  12.7

1  12.7

35

2.0

SR35

138

89

312

128-5089-42-24-67,49-20

15

14  12.7

1  12.7

35

2.5

SR35

138

102

128-5102-42-24-67,49-20

17

16  12.7

1  12.7

35

3.1

R35

1 8

102

109-5102-42-24-67,49-20

17

16  12.7

1  12.7

35

3.1

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130

FACE DRILLING

FD3/pages 131-135

29/3/04

7:42 am

Page 131

SECOROC GRINDING

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FACE DRILLING

131

FD3/pages 131-135

29/3/04

7:42 am

Page 132

SECOROC GRINDING

Grinding

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FACE DRILLING

FD3/pages 131-135

29/3/04

7:42 am

Page 133

SECOROC GRINDING

Grinding

Grind Matic X

Grind Matic Senior

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133

FD3/pages 131-135

29/3/04

7:42 am

Page 134

SECOROC GRINDING

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134

FACE DRILLING

FD3/pages 131-135

29/3/04

7:42 am

Page 135

SECOROC GRINDING

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FACE DRILLING

  
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135

BOLTING RIG SPECIFICATION

2270

700

Boltec 235H-DCS

6550

A fully mechanized rock bolting rig for bolt lengths

1.5 2.4 m. Effective in roof heights up to 8 m
(max. 9.7 m).
MBU bolting unit with a unique design based on a
single feed system utilizing a cradle indexer at the rear
end and a robust drill steel support plus indexer for
grouting at the top end. Low-mounted magazine for 10
bolts, designed for maximum flexibility during drilling
and bolting.
DCS, direct hydraulic control system for drilling
and bolting, that incorporates an excellent
antijamming function and RPCF (Rotation Pressure
Controlled Feed force).
COP 1532 rock drill, shortest in its class, with modern
hydraulic reflex dampening gives genuine high speed
drilling and excellent drill steel economy. Separately
variable frequency and impact power can be adapted
to certain drill steel/rock conditions.
BUT 35HB heavy-duty boom for direct, fast and
accurate positioning between holes. Improved linkage
bearings in main boom joints and new axial bearings
in all boom joints reducing maintenance requirements.
Sturdy, articulated carrier with four wheel drive
for easy manoeuvring in narrow tunnels and drifts.
Power steering, fail-safe brakes and central lubricated
chassis. Four jacks for stable set up.
Basic rig includes telescopic FOPS-approved
protective roof, cable reel, search light (1x 70 W), work
lights (3 x 500 W halogen), bolt rack, water booster
pump, compressor, air receiver and pump unloading
function for easier start.

Optional equipment
Swellex kit
Bolt rotator kit
Resin/Cement cartridge kit
Splitset kit
Exhaust water scrubber
Exhaust catalyzer
ANSUL fire suppression system ANSUL
Electric cable warning device
Electrical system 1000 V, direct start only
Water hose reel 1400 mm
Manual lubrication system
Rig washing kit, with hose and reel
Automatic boom lubrication system, rear part of boom
Reverse alarm
Beacon warning lamp

Main specifications
Boltec 235H-DCS
Rock drill
Bolting unit
Boom
Drilling system
Length, tramming
Width, excl bolt rack
Height
Turning radius
Weight

1 x COP 1532
MBU
1 x BUT 35HB
DCS 12-55
12050 mm
2155 mm
2270 mm
5800/3300 mm
16000 kg

Visit www.rockreinforcement.com for more information

136

Boltec.indd 2

FACE DRILLING

2004-03-02, 13:57:52

BOLTING RIG SPECIFICATION

Boltec SL

A semi-mechanized rock bolting rig with electrical

remote control system for safety and productivity.
For bolt lengths 1.6 1.8 m. Effective in roof
heights up to 1.8 m
Rock bolting with Swellex bolts, resin grouted rebar
bolts or mechanical bolts. Hole size diameter 29 up to
51 mm. In 1.8 m roof height max. bolt length is
1.6 - 1.8 m depending on bolt type.
Resin bolting quality is controlled by pre-setting the
bolt rotators speed, torque and acting time for
accurate mixing and curing of the resin.
Swellex bolting quality is controlled by pre-setting
the inflation time.
Extension drilling up to 51 mm enables installation of
Connectable Swellex rockbolts up to any lengths in low
roof heights.
Electrical pilot system with controls for positioning,
drilling and bolting in a portable operators control
panel.
MBU 16SL bolting unit with a unique design based on
a single feed system utilizing a cradle indexer at the
rear end and a robust drill steel support at the top end.
Designed for maximum flexibility during drilling and
bolting. Bolting unit is connected to the boom via a
flexible positioning unit.
Extendable protective roof at the bolting unit for
improved operators safety. Hydraulic jacks to support
the panel roof at the bolting unit with a force of 80 kN.
COP 1028HB is a light rock drill with separate reversible
rotation and stepless variable rotation speed, and high
torque capacity that contribute to good drilling results.
BUT 32SL heavy-duty boom for direct, fast and
accurate positioning between holes. Improved linkage
bearings in main boom joints and new axial bearings
in all boom joints reduce maintenance.
Sturdy, articulated carrier with four wheel drive
for fast tramming and easy manoeuvring in narrow
tunnels and drifts. Power steering, failsafe brakes and
central lubricated chassis. Four jacks for stable set up.
Basic rig includes telescopic FOPS-approved protective
roof, cable reel, work lights, water booster pump and
FACE DRILLING

Boltec.indd 3

pump unloading function for easier start with low voltage. Standardization with Rocket Boomer S1L on high
capacity 55 kW electric motor and powerpack.
Minimum tramming height 1.3 m.

Optional equipment
Automatic boom lubrication system, rear part
Bolt rotator for max 240 Nm/ 810 rpm or max 480 Nm/450 rpm
Rock drill lubrication warning kit
Swellex installation equipment
Alternative roof stops; min 1500 mm, max 1700 mm
Exhaust catalyser
Fire suppression system Ansul
Guards to prevent start of tramming with jacks down, slide
beam out or roof up
Safety belt
Rear view mirrors
Beacon warning lamp
Back-up alarm
Electric outlet for accessories
Rig washing kit, with water hose and reel
Manual lubrication system

Main specifications
Boltec SL
Rock drill
Bolting unit
Boom
Drilling system
Length, tramming
Width
Height, carrier
roof min/max
Turning radius
Weight

1 x COP 1028
MBU 16SL
1 x BUT 32SL
EDS
10000 mm
2480 mm
1300 mm
1300/1700 mm
6180/3550 mm
12800 kg

Visit www.rockreinforcement.com for more information

137

2004-03-02, 13:57:54

BOLTING RIG SPECIFICATION

Boltec MC and LC

3010
2265

www.atlascopco.com

MC

MC

7385
Boltec MC

Fully mechanized rock bolting rigs with computerbased control system for high productivity and
precision. For bolt lengths 1.5 - 6 m. Effective
in roof heights up to 11 m.
Rig Control System (RCS) with interactive operator
control panel with full-colour display of the computerbased drilling system. Automatic functions in the
drilling process such as auto-collaring and antijamming protection as well as improved regulation of
the rock drill provide high performance and outstanding drill steel economy. Integrated diagnostic and
fault location system. Distributed hydraulic system
with fewer and shorter hoses for increased availability.
PC-card for transfer of data and for service engineers
to store optimal drill settings.
MBU bolting unit with a unique design based on a
single feed system utilizing a cradle indexer at the rear
end and a robust drill steel support plus indexer for
grouting at the top end. Low-mounted magazine for 10
bolts, designed for maximum flexibility during drilling
and bolting.
COP 1532 rock drill, shortest in its class, with modern
hydraulic reflex dampening gives genuine high speed
drilling and excellent drill steel economy. Separately
variable frequency and impact power can be adapted
to certain drill steel/rock combinations.
BUT 35HB heavy-duty boom for direct, fast and
accurate positioning between holes. Improved linkage
bearings in main boom joints and new axial bearings
in all boom joints reduce maintenance.
Sturdy, articulated carrier with turbocharged watercooled, low emission diesel engine. High ground
clearance, four-wheel traction and articulated steering
for easy manoeuvring in narrow drifts and fast
tramming in steep ramps.
Optional ABC Basic, angle reading instrument.
Smart oil leakage shut-down system minimises
hydraulic oil pollution.
Standard rig includes FOPS approved telescopic
protective roof, fixed seat, hydraulic driven compressor and water booster pump, cable reel, bolt
rack, air receiver and working lights.
138

Boltec.indd 4

Other versions
Boltec MD electric-hydraulic, direct controlled bolting rig.
Boltec LD electric-hydraulic, direct controlled bolting rig.

Optional equipment
Air-water mist flushing, external air
Water mist flushing with external water and air supply
Rock drill lubrication warning kit
Automatic boom lubrication system, rear part of boom
Swellex installation kit
Automatic cartridge handler
Manual cartridge shooting system
Split Set installation kit
Bulk cement with hose grouting system
ABC Basic - with angle indication
Cabin with fixed seat, FOPS approved 80 dB(A)
Additional operators control panel
Exhaust water scrubber 150 l
Fire suppression system Ansul/Forrex
Automatic fire suppression system, including suppression
inside electric cabinet
1000 V electric system, direct start only
Extra transformer, 10 kVA
Service platform
Rig washing kit, with water hose and reel
Manual lubrication system

Main specifications
Boltec MC and LC
Rock drill
Bolting unit
Bolt lengths
Roof heights
Boom
Drilling system
Length, tramming
Width, excl bolt rack
Height, standard
Turning radius
Weight

Boltec MC
1 x COP 1532
MBU
1.5 - 3.5 m
up to 8 m
1 x BUT 35HB
RCS
12500 mm
2210 mm
3050 mm
6250/3800 mm
22600 kg

Boltec LC
1 x COP 1532
MBU
1.5 - 6 m
up to 11 m
1 x BUT 35HBE
RCS
13200 mm
2500 mm
3100 mm
7200/4400 mm
22600 kg

Visit www.rockreinforcement.com for more information

FACE DRILLING

2004-03-02, 13:57:55

ROCK REINFORCEMENT

Swellex The engineered rock

reinforcement system
The Swellex rock bolting system has gained
worldwide acceptance since its introduction some
twenty years ago. Today the Swellex system is in
use at mines and construction sites worldwide.
Operators who have used Swellex to solve their
toughest support problems have simultaneously
increased their profits! The features behind this
success are:
Immediate full-column rock reinforcement
High tolerance to variation in hole diameter
Swellex bolts accommodate large ground
movements
The bolt is insensitive to blast vibration
Swellex rockbolts are quickly installed and very
little training is required to perform the operation
Extendable version for narrow places or extralong rock reinforcement
Large range of application
Atlas Copco rock reinforcement team back up
High anchorage capacity
Instant full load-bearing capacity

Swellex can easily be installed manually or

mechanically
Standard length up to 8 metres
Corrosion protection available
Cost-effective in most rock types and conditions,
boosting productivity
Controllable over time
Worldwide distribution network
Swellex installation procedure ensures that every
bolt is perfect

Swellex goes Manganese

With its non-stop research for improvement and
new product development, Atlas Copco is about
to redefine the concept of safety and productivity
in rock reinforcement, without conceding any
advantages of the Swellex concept.

The new Swellex Manganese (Mn) line is made

out of steel specially developed to provide extra
strength, rigidity and elongation capacity, in order
to provide a huge work capability.

Comparison of Typical Properties

Swellex Manganese Line

Hole diameter
mm

Ultimate Load (profile)

kN

Elogation
%

Work Index
kNx%

Standard Swellex
Swellex Mn12
Increase

32-39
32-39

100
120
+20%

20
30
+50%

2000
3600
+80%

Midi Swellex
Swellex Mn16
Increase

43-52
43-52

120
160
+33%

20
30
+50%

2400
4800
+100%

Super Swellex
Swellex Mn 24/E
Increase

43-52
43-52

200
240
+25%

20
30
+50%

4000
7200
+80%

Swellex Mn Face plates h29/h39

89 kN minimum breaking load

ASTM F432 95 compliant

Typical Properties are based on statistical data on large population of samples

Visit www.rockreinforcement.com for more information
FACE DRILLING

Swellex.indd 1

139

2004-03-04, 10:26:21

SELF DRILLING ANCHORS

MAI Systems SDA

Self Drilling Anchors for safer and faster tunnelling

Threaded hollow MAI anchor bar including bit, coupler, bearing plate and nut.

The Atlas Copco MAI Systems SDA consist of a

fully threaded steel bar, a sacrificial drill bit, a
coupler to extend the anchor to the required
length, and a hexagonal nut and bearing plate.
The MAI threaded bar features a hollow bore for
flushing or simultaneous drilling and grouting, and
has a left-handed standard rope thread for
connection to standard drill tooling. Bars come in
several lengths, from 2-12 meters, with different
diameters and thread types. The sacrificial drill
bit is the most crucial part of the anchor system,
responsible for the high productivity of the
installation. Ground conditions determine the
type of anchors and drill bits to be used.

Features and Advantages

Fits Atlas Copco standard Boomers.
Particularly suitable for difficult ground conditions.
A high rate of installation since drilling, placing
and grouting can be performed in one single
operation.
Self drilling system eliminates the requirement
for a cased borehole.
Installation with simultaneous drilling and
grouting possible.
Easy installation in all directions, also upwards.
Suitable for working in limited space, height and
in areas of difficult access.
Simple post grouting system.

The Atlas Copco MAI Systems, Self Drilling

Anchor (SDA) is a unique anchoring system and is
todays answer to the increasing demands of the
tunnelling industry for safer and faster production.
The system provides advantages for all areas of its
applications, where boreholes would require the
time consuming drilling with casing systems in
unconsolidated or cohesive soil.

Applications
Radial bolting
Forepoling
Face stabilization
Soil nailing
Portal preparation
Full range of sacrificial MAI bits for most tunnelling and grouting purposes.

Technical data
Anchor rod
Outside diameter mm
Ultimate load capacity kN
Yield load capacity kN
Aver. tensile strength RM N/mm
Aver. yield strength Rp0,2 N/mm

R25N
25
200
150
805
660

R32N
32
280
230
720
560

R32S
32
360
280
740
570

R38N
38
500
400
700
540

R51L
51
550
450
690
580

R51N
51
800
630
840
670

T76N
76
1600
1200
880
660

T76S
76
1900
1500
790
630

Visit www.rockreinforcement.com for more information

140

Mai.indd 2

FACE DRILLING

2004-03-04, 10:53:14

GROUTING

Grouting equipment
Equipment for sealing, strengthening and stabilizing of rock and soil

Recorders

Mixers

LOGAC is a computer-based logging system

for sampling and storing data during grouting
operations. It is recording time, real time, flow,
volume and pressure when grouting or water
pressure tests are carried out. The data is being
stored on a PC memory card.
The LOGAC system exists in two versions;
-the LOGAC S recorder for one grout line
-the LOGAC GL recorder for up to 8 grout
lines (each grout line is started and stopped
individually), for standard grouting operations as
well as for grouting with GIN and taking Lugeon
readings.
The LOGAC system is designed for field operation
and is characterised by its simplicity in operation.

CEMIX is a high speed colloidal grout mixer for

mixing water/cement ratios down to 0.35.
The mixer produces a thoroughly uniform mix free
of lumps or aggregates and with every cement
particle individually separated and wet.
CEMIX can be delivered in three different sizes of
containers: CEMIX 103, 203 and 403 for a volume
of 100, 200 and 400 litres respectively.
The CEMIX is powered by an electric, hydraulic or
air prime mover.

Double-acting piston pumps

Agitators
The CEMAG agitator with its sloping bottom and
inclined agitator shaft, creates the important counter
currents which keep the quality of the grout for a
long time.
CEMAG can be delivered in four different sizes of
containers: CEMAG 202, 402, 802 and 1602 for a
volume of 200, 400, 800 and 1600 litres respectively.
The CEMAG is powered by an electric, hydraulic or
air prime mover.
FACE DRILLING

Grouting.indd 1

The PUMPAC pump system is based on the same

efficient double-acting pump principle used on the
well-known ZB range of grout pumps.
PUMPAC is easy and user-friendly thanks to its
modular parts and fast-change valve assembly
units. PUMPAC has easy maintenance, featuring
a self-cleaning fluid end and water flushing of
cement and hydraulic piston rods.
The pump can be delivered with three different
sizes of electric motors, 7.5, 15 and 22 kW and
two sizes of grout cylinders - 110 and 150 mm
diameter.
Pump capacity
Grout cylinder size
Ball valves
110 mm
150 mm

Flow l/min
0-135
0-235

Pressure bar
0-100
0-55

141

2004-03-04, 10:55:48

VEHICLE SPECIFICATION

1560
1400

3786

Small Diesel Scooptram LHDs

8624
ST600LP

Diesel Scooptrams
Atlas Copco manufactures a complete range of loading
and hauling equipment for underground mining and for
tunnelling, with a system for every application.

Video Camera

3270
3850

R5430

The Atlas Copco line of diesel LHDs ranges from the 3.6
metric ton tramming capacity ST2D to the 15 metric ton
tramming capacity of the ST1520, each of which has dozens of options. Most vehicles are equipped with the patented SAHR fail-to-safe brake system, catalytic purifier and
exhaust silencer, and have an axle oscillation between 14
and 20 degrees.

ST600LP
R2240
2000 x 45 Chamfered Corner

3270
3850

Visit www.atlascopco.com/retc for more information

Diesel Scooptram model

ST2D

ST2G

Tramming capacity (kg)

Mechanical breakout force (kg)
Hydraulic breakout force (kg)
Operating weight of vehicle** (kg)

3 600
5 936
9 060
11 500

3 600
6 710
9 060
12 700

Length (m)
Height, canopy/cab (m)
Bucket height, max (m)
Width, vehicle*** (m)

6.710
2.085
3.890
1.615

Standard diesel engine

Deutz
F6L-912W

ST600LP

ST710

6 000
7 950
9 960
17 500

6 000
8 688
9 300
17 300

6 500
10 347
14 200
18 200

7.080
2.160
3.890
1.615

8.460
2.250
3.470
1.830

8.625
1.560
3.785
1.895

8.825
2.105
4.345
1.925

Deutz
BF4M1013EC

Deutz
F8L-413FW

Deutz
BF6M1013E

Deutz
BF6M1013FC MVS

Deutz
F8L-413FWB

Optional diesel engine

Standard bucket (m3)

1.9

*All data apply to standard equipped vehicles

142

Wagner.indd 2

ST3.5

1.9
**Empty vehicle

3.1

Detroit Diesel
Series 40 DDEC
3.1

3.2

***Less bucket

FACE DRILLING

2004-03-16, 14:17:40

VEHICLE SPECIFICATION

2355
1750

5060

Large Diesel Scooptram LHDs

9745

ST1020

R6120

3400
4025
4330

R6775

R3450

ST1020
2000 x 45 Chamfered Corner

3400
4025
4330

Visit www.atlascopco.com/retc for more information

Diesel Scooptram model

ST1020

ST7.5Z

ST8B

ST8C

Tramming capacity (kg)

Mechanical breakout force (kg)
Hydraulic breakout force (kg)
Operating weight of vehicle** (kg)

10 000
13 381
14 958
26 300

12 245
15 700
17 970
40 000

13 608
17 706
22 374
36 800

14 500
19 878
23 250
39 200

15 000
21 674
25 503
41 000

Length (m)
Height, canopy/cab (m)
Bucket height, max (m)
Width, vehicle*** (m)

9.745
2.355
5.060
2.260

10.900
2.505
5.710
2.565

10.290
2.650
5.335
2.795

10.980
2.710
5.205
2.460

11.175
2.650
6.000
2.735

Standard diesel engine

Detroit Diesel
Series 60 DDEC

Detroit Diesel
Series 60 DDEC

Deutz Diesel
F12L-413FW

Detroit Diesel
Series 60 DDEC

Detroit Diesel
Series 60 DDEC

5.0

5.8

6.5

6.9

7.5

Standard bucket (m3)

*All data apply to standard equipped vehicles

FACE DRILLING

Wagner.indd 3

**Empty vehicle

ST1520

***Less bucket

143

2004-03-16, 14:17:42

VEHICLE SPECIFICATION

1730

1750

3885

Electric Scooptram LHDs

8635
EST3.5

Electric Scooptrams

Electric LHD Advantages Relative to Diesel:

The Scooptram EST2D is an LHD for small-sized operations that range from construction sites to narrow-vein
mining. The Scooptram EST3.5 is an LHD for small to
medium-sized underground operations that include development work, production mining and construction sites.
This vehicle is attractive for operations that have existing
infrastructure for electric LHDs or for those that have insufficient ventilation for diesel LHDs.

Lower Ventilation Requirement

Lower Levels of Noise and Heat
Lower Energy Costs
More Powerful Digging Action
Constant Torque and Quick Response
Lower Maintenance Costs

Electric LHD Disadvantages Relative to Diesel:

Limited Travel Due to Cable
Expensive Cable-replacement Cost

Several hundred electric-drive Atlas Copco Scooptrams

have been delivered around the world. Currently
available are the EST2D, EST3.5.

Capitalizing on years of electric LHD successes, the

EST3.5 is ready to deliver reliable productivity to your
operation

Random-wrap Cable Reel with Automatic Tension

Control
50 Hz or 60 Hz, 380 to 1000 Volts
Spicer Modulated Shift Transmission with Integral
Torque Converter
SAHR Brake System
ROPS/FOPS Canopy
Off-board Start
Efficient, Reliable, Cost Effective

Visit www.atlascopco.com/retc for more information

R5540

Electric Scooptram model

EST2D

EST3.5

Tramming capacity (kg)

Mechanical breakout force (kg)
Hydraulic breakout force (kg)
Operating weight of vehicle** (kg)

3 629
6 000
9 316
11 400

6 000
8 180
9 960
17 000

6.835
2.085
3.890
1.615

8.635
1.750
3.885
1.955

Length (m)
Height (m)
Bucket height, max (m)
Width, vehicle*** (m)
Standard diesel engine
Standard bucket (m3)

3685

Technical data*

R2745

EST3.5

Electric, three phase Electric, three phase

56 kW, 50 or 60 Hz 74.6 kW, 50 or 60 Hz
1.9

3.1

3685

*All data apply to standard equipped vehicles **Empty vehicle ***Less bucket

144

Wagner.indd 4

FACE DRILLING

2004-03-16, 14:17:43

VEHICLE SPECIFICATION

2425

4420

Mine Trucks

9010
MT2000

Mine Trucks
Atlas Copco offers a full line of 4-wheel-drive, articulated
underground haulage trucks with capacities ranging
between 20 and 50 metric tonnes.

3365
4210

R7490

All Mine Trucks are equipped with a twin cylinder-raised

dump box, and some are available with the patented
Teletram box. Others utilize the ejector-type box in low
headroom situations. All trucks are equipped with SAHR
brakes for safety, reliability and lower operating costs;
axle oscillation of 16-20 degrees; catalytic purifier and
exhaust silencer; and can dump in approximately 15
seconds.

MT2000

R4640
2000 x 45 Chamfered Corner

3365
4210

Visit www.atlascopco.com/retc for more information

Technical data*
Mine Truck model
Payload capacity (kg)
Operating weight of vehicle** (kg)
Length (m)
Height, canopy/cab (m)
Box height, max (m)
Width, vehicle*** (m)
Volume semi-heaped (m3)

Standard diesel engine

MT2000

Wagner.indd 5

MT436B

MT5010

20 000
20 400

28 123
29 300

32 650
30 600

50 000
42 000

9.010
2.425
4.420
2.210

10.180
2.740
5.365
2.795

10.180
2.680
5.385
3.065

11.220
2.800
6.750
3.200

6.7-12.5

8.4-18.4

10.7-18.4

16.0-31.0

Detroit Diesel
Series 50 DDEC

Detroit Diesel
Series 60 DDEC

Detroit Diesel
Series 60 DDEC

Cummins
QSK19-C650

*All data apply to standard equipped vehicles

FACE DRILLING

MT431B

**Empty vehicle

***Less bucket

145

2004-03-16, 14:17:43

ROCK DRILL SPECIFICATIONS

A reliable team of efficient pusher leg drills

Atlas Copco rock drills and rock drilling tools are an
unbeatable combination of high performance and
superior reliability. The pneumatic pusher leg drills
are characterized by low spare parts consumption
and minimum maintenance requirements.
They are robust but simply designed, with high
impact energy and low air consumption. The
uniform high quality of materials and manufacturing

processes contribute to the long service life of

the machines. Together with the pusher legs the
rock drills form an attractive and cost effective
drilling unit. The pneumatic telescopic and doubletelescopic pusher legs are available in a number
of versions. All are of a simple, robust design for
reliable operation and minimum maintenance
requirements.

BBC 16W (Puma)

RH 656W

All-round rock drill which

suits most drilling applications. It has a robust rifle
bar rotation mechanism,
long stroke and good
penetration rates in hard rock. The pusher leg
control is placed at the backhead of the rock drill.
Suitable pusher legs for BBC 16W are BMHT 51-3
and 51, ALF 71-1 and 71, and ALF 67/80.

A rock drill with a very

favourable relation of high
high penetration/low air
consumption. It has a robust
rifle bar rotation mechanism
and flushing system with double concentric tubes.
The low weight makes the drill handy also as a sinker. A T-handle can easily be fitted instead of using
a pusher leg. Suitable pusher leg is BMK 625.

BBC 34W (Leopard)

Stopers BBD 46WS/WR (Falcon)

Highly efficient rock drill for

medium to hard rock. It has
a powerful rifle bar rotation
mechanism, long stroke
and high impact energy.
The large diameter piston makes it very efficient
even with low air pressure. The pusher leg control
is placed at the backhead of the rock drill. Suitable
pusher legs for BBC 34W are ALF 71-1 and 71, and
ALF 67/80.

All-steel rock drills suitable for production drilling, raise driving and bolting.
They have a robust ratchet wheel rotation mechanism, short stroke and good
penetration rates in soft and mediumhard rock. The large diameter piston
makes them very efficient even with
low air pressure. The WR version has
clockwise rotation and can be used for
tightening nuts when roof bolting.

BBD 94W (Panther)

Pusher legs

High performance rock

drill for soft to hard rock. It
has ratchet wheel rotation
mechanism, short stroke
and high impact rate. It
is also efficient at low air
pressure. The pusher leg control is placed on the
pusher leg itself. Suitable pusher legs for BBD 94W
are ALF 72D-1 and 72D, and ALF 67/80D.

Description

BBC 16W
BBC 34W
BBD 94W
RH 656W

Hole
range
mm
27 - 40
27 - 41
27 - 40
27 - 40

Air requirement at
6 bar
1/s
60
88
97
48

The pneumatic telescopic and double-telescopic

pusher legs are available in a number of versions.
All are of a simple, robust design for reliable operation and minimum maintenance requirements.

Impact
frequency
Hz
39
38
55
34

Stroke
length
mm
55
70
45
60

Piston
bore
mm
70
80
90
65

Weight

Length

kg
26
31
27
22

mm
710
775
670
630

Stopers
Description

BBD 46WS-6
BBD 46WS-8
BBD 46WR-6
BBD 46WR-8

146

BBC.BBD.indd 2

Air
Rock drill
consumption piston
at 6 bar*
bore
l/s (cfm)
mm
75 (159)
75
75 (159)
75
75 (159)
75
75 (159)
75

Stroke
length
mm
45
45
45
45

Impact
rate
at 6 bar*
Hz
51
51
49
49

Rotation
rate
at 6 bar*
rev/sec
4.0
4.0
6.5
6.5

Feeding
length
mm
770
970
770
970

Length
Length
retracted extended
mm
1435
1650
1435
1650

mm
2205
2620
2205
2620

Feed
piston
bore
mm
75
75
75
75

Weight

kg
39
40
39
40

FACE DRILLING

2004-03-17, 13:22:21

COMPLEMENTARY EQUIPMENT

VAM Water separators

VAM water separators are based on the centrifugal
principle. They feature automatic discharge via a
float controlled bottom valve, and a coarse strainer
for solid particles.
Water separators, fitted with claw couplings
Description

Air flow

Hose
connection
mm
in

VAM 5A

25

Ordering No.

Weight

l/s

cfm

kg

lb

120

254

10

22

8092 0110 82

Working pressure 10 bar (145 psi)

BLG and CLG Lubricators

BLG and CLG are highly efficient mineral oil
lubricators for pneumatic equipment. Their simple,
strong design makes the lubricators very resistant to
rough handling.

Having no moving parts contributes to safe and

trouble-free operation. The oil supply is easily
adjusted even during operation.

Lubricators, fitted with claw couplings

Description

Hose inner
diameter
mm
in

CLG 30, for both

mineral and
synthetic oil

25

BLG 30, for mineral

oil

25

Air flow

Oil volume

Weight

Ordering No.

l/s

cfm

gal

kg

lb

15-140

32-300

1.3

0.3

6.6

8202 5102 39

15-140

32-300

1.3

0.3

6.6

8202 5102 05

Max working pressure 20 bar (290 psi)

Air oil, synthetic lubricant with excellent lubrication, anticorrosion and antifreezing properties
Description

FACE DRILLING

complem. equipm..indd 1

Oil volume

Weight

Ordering No.

gal

kg

lb

0.2 l bottle

0.2

0.04

0.24

0.53

8099 0202 40

1 l bottle

0.22

1.1

2.4

8099 0202 36

5 l container

1.1

5.8

13

8099 0202 02

25 l container

25

5.5

28

62

8099 0202 20

200 l barrel

200

44

220

485

8099 0202 28

147

2004-03-04, 11:36:41

Use for Page 148

29/3/04

10:33 am

Page 148

COMPLEMENTARY EQUIPMENT

Hoses
The Atlas Copco rubber hose is ideal for all
applications and air lines in use on building and
construction sites, in mines and shipyards.

The Mantex at hose is a lightweight hose,

weighing only one third of a conventional rubber
hose.

Round rubber, hose rolls

Description

Inner
diameter
mm
in

Outer
diameter
mm
in

Max working
pressure
bar
psi

Length
roll
m
ft

Weight
kg

lb

Ordering No.

Rubber hose, 30m

10

3/8

17

11/16

16

232

30

98

6.9

15.2

9030 2037 00

Rubber hose, 30m

12.5

1/2

22

5/8

16

232

30

98

12.3

27.1

9030 2038 00

Rubber hose, 30m

16

5/8

25

16

232

30

98

13.9

30.6

9030 2039 00

Rubber hose, 30m

20

3/4

30

13/16

16

232

30

98

19.3

42.5

9030 2040 00

Rubber hose, 20m

20

3/4

30

13/16

16

232

20

65

12.9

28.3

9030 2040 03

Rubber hose, 30m

25

36

15/16

16

232

30

98

24.0

52.9

9030 2041 00

Rubber hose, 20m

25

36

15/16

16

232

20

65

16.0

35.3

9030 2041 03

Round rubber hoses, pre-mounted hoses fitted with couplings and hose clamps
Description
for products

Inner
diameter
mm
in

Outer
diameter
mm
in

Max working
pressure
bar
psi

Length
roll
m
ft

Weight
kg

lb

Ordering No.

Universal

12.5

1/2

22

5/8

16

232

15

49

5.9

13

9030 2045 00

Universal

20

3/4

30

13/16

16

232

15

49

7.6

16.8

9030 2049 00

Universal

25

36

15/16

16

232

15

49

12

26.5

9030 2050 00

Mantex flat hoses, hose rolls

Description

Inner
diameter
mm
in

Thickness
mm

in

Max working
pressure
bar
psi

Length
roll
m
ft

Weight
kg

lb

Ordering No.

Lightweight hose, 60m

20

3/4

2.3

3/32

20

290

60

195

13

29

9030 2014 00

Lightweight hose, 100m

20

3/4

2.3

3/32

20

290

100

325

22

48

9030 2014 01

Lightweight hose, 200m

20

3/4

2.3

3/32

20

290

200

650

44

96

9030 2014 02

Lightweight hose, 60m

25

2.5

3/32

20

290

60

195

16

35

9030 2006 00

Lightweight hose, 100m

25

2.5

3/32

20

290

100

325

26

57

9030 2006 01

Lightweight hose, 200m

25

2.5

3/32

20

290

200

650

52

114

9030 2006 02

Lightweight hose, 60m

40

11/2

2.5

3/32

14

203

60

195

27

60

9030 2007 00

Lightweight hose, 60m

50

2.8

7/64

14

203

60

195

36

79

9030 2008 00

Lightweight hose, 40m

76

3.0

1/8

10

145

40

130

36

79

9030 2009 00

Max working pressure below is calculated with safety factor 5. Burst pressure = 5 x Max working pressure

Mantex flat hoses, Pre-mounted hoses with fitted couplings and hose clamps
Description

148

Inner
diameter
mm
in

Thickness
mm

in

Max working
pressure
bar
psi

Length
roll
m
ft

Weight
kg

lb

Ordering No.

Universal

20

3/4

2.3

3/32

20

290

20

65

4.5

10

9030 2015 00

Universal

25

2.5

3/32

20

290

20

65

13

9030 2011 00

FACE DRILLING

COMPLEMENTARY EQUIPMENT

Claw couplings
You will not find a better claw coupling anywhere
with such a low pressure drop. And its strength
and life span are unsurpassed. Atlas Copco
couplings are always easy to assemble and
dismantle. They are also available with a lock nut
to provide effective, reliable sealing even under
extreme conditions.

Hard treatment resistant

Made of galvanised drop-forged, hardened steel
All couplings mate, regardless of nipple and
thread size

Claw couplings
Connection

Hose inner
diameter
mm
in

Bore

Weight

Ordering No.

mm

in

kg

lb

Hose nipple

6.3

1/4

5.0

3/16

0.11

0.25

9000 0308 00

Hose nipple

10.0

3/8

8.0

5/16

0.13

0.29

9000 0309 00

Hose nipple

12.5

1/2

10.5

13/32

0.14

0.31

9000 0310 00

Hose nipple

16.0

5/8

13.5

17/32

0.14

0.31

9000 0311 00

Hose nipple

20.0

3/4

17.2

11/16

0.15

0.33

9000 0312 00

Hose nipple

25.0

22.0

7/8

0.17

0.38

9000 0313 00

Hose nipple with lock nut

10.0

3/8

8.0

5/16

0.29

0.64

9000 0260 00

Hose nipple with lock nut

12.5

1/2

10.5

13/32

0.29

0.64

9000 0261 00

Hose nipple with lock nut

16.0

5/8

13.5

17/32

0.29

0.64

9000 0262 00

Hose nipple with lock nut

20.0

3/4

17.2

11/16

0.32

0.71

9000 0263 00

Hose nipple with lock nut

25.0

22.0

7/8

0.32

0.71

9000 0264 00

Claw couplings
Connection

Connecting
thread

Bore

Weight

Ordering No.

mm

in

kg

lb

External thread

G3/8A

11.3

7/16

0.11

0.25

9000 0300 00

External thread

G1/2A

14.8

37/64

0.12

0.27

9000 0301 00

External thread

G3/4A

19.0

3/4

0.13

0.29

9000 0302 00

External thread

G1A

25.5

0.13

0.29

9000 0303 00

Internal thread

G3/8

15.0

19/32

0.12

0.27

9000 0304 00

Internal thread

G1/2

18.6

3/4

0.13

0.29

9000 0305 00

Internal thread

G3/4

24.2

0.14

0.31

9000 0306 00

Internal thread

G1

30.3

13/16

0.15

0.33

9000 0307 00

0.18

0.40

9000 0314 00

Cover

Packings and lock spring for claw couplings

Description

Fit to coupling
ordering No.
9000....

Comment

Ordering No.

Packing

0300 00 to
0314 00

Can be replaced by special

packing 9000 0000 01

9000 0000 00

Packing

0260 00 to
0262 00

Packing

0263 00 and
0264 00

Lock spring

9000 0015 00
Can be replaced by special
packing 9000 0319 00

Fits to all 9000 0300 00

to 9000 0314 00 couplings

9000 0268 00
3176 8640 00

Special packings can be used in max. temp +200C (390F) steam and -40C to +250C
(-40F to +482F) air. Excellent for neutral and alkaline liquids (pH above 5)

FACE DRILLING

complem. equipm..indd 3

149

2004-03-04, 11:36:44

COMPLEMENTARY EQUIPMENT

Hose couplings for rubber hose

Guide, hose couplings for round rubber hoses
Hose diam.
inner
mm
in

Hose
jointing
nipple

Hose
clamp

0347 6105 00

10

3/8

9000 0215 00

12.5

1/2

9000 0216 00

12.5

1/2

16

5/8

9000 0217 00

20

3/4

25

Hose
clamp

Hose
nipple

Cup nut
Wing

Cup nut
Hexagonal

G5/8
9000 0331 00
G5/8
9000 0331 00
G3/4
9000 0332 00
G3/4
9000 0332 00
G7/8
9000 0333 00
G11/8
9000 0334 00

9000 0321 00
9000 0194 00

9000 0322 00
9000 0323 01

9000 0337 00

9000 0195 00

9000 0324 00

9000 0337 00

9000 0218 00

9000 0196 00

9000 0325 00

9000 0338 00

9000 0219 01

9000 0197 00

9000 0326 00

9000 0339 00

Connecting
nipples
External thread

G3/4A - G3/4A
9000 0343 00
G7/8A - G1A
9000 0345 00
G11/8A - G1A
9000 0346 00

Guide, hose couplings with particularly coarse thread for round rubber hoses
Hose diam.
inner
mm
in

Hose
clamp

Hose
nipple

Packing

Cup nut
Wing

12.5

1/2

9000 0194 00

9000 0370 00

9000 0025 00 3)

9000 0154 00

20

3/4

9000 0196 00

9000 0371 00

9000 0025 00 3)

9000 0154 00

25

9000 0197 00

9000 0372 00

9000 0025 00 3)

9000 0154 00

Connecting
nipples
External thread

Connecting
nipples
Internal thread

G1/2A
9000 0028 00
G3/4A
9000 0029 00
G1A
9000 0030 00

G1/2
9000 0033 00
G3/4
9000 0034 00
G1
9000 0035 00

Guide, Mantex flat hoses

Hose diam.
inner
mm
in

3/4

20
25

Hose
jointing
nipple

Hose
clamp

Claw
coupling

Packing

9000 0218 00 1)
9000 0219 01 1)

9000 0194 00
9000 0196 00

9000 0312 00
9000 0313 00

9000 0000 00 3)
9000 0000 00 3)

Guide, Mantex flat hoses

Hose diam.
inner
mm
in

Hose
jointing
nipple

Hose
clamp

Hose
nipple

Packing

Cup nut
Wing

40

11/2

9000 0220 00 2)

9000 0381 00

9000 0373 00

9000 0026 00 3)

9000 0159 00

50

9000 0221 00 2)

9000 0198 01

9000 0374 00

9000 0026 00 3)

9000 0159 00

76

9001 0045 00

9000 0189 00

9001 0025 80

3176 8294 00

3176 8295 00

2)

3
76
1) 2 hose clamps per nipple needed
2) 4 hose clamps per nipple needed
3) All claw couplings and hose nipples supplied with packings

150

complem. equipm..indd 4

3)

Connecting
Connecting
nipples
nipples
External thread Internal thread

G11/2A
9000 0031 00
G2A
9000 0332 00
G2A
3176 8296 00
G3A
3215 7766 00

G11/2
9000 0036 00
G2
9000 0037 00

FACE DRILLING

2004-03-04, 11:36:45

LUBRICANTS

COP OIL

A new oil for Atlas Copco

pneumatic and hydraulic
rock drills and DTH hammers
that unites technology and
the environment

Main features

COP OIL

The development of lubricating oil for pneumatic and

hydraulic tools has been driven by the high demands on
environment and reliability. COP OIL is made of carefully
selected components that give the highest technical
performance. COP OIL has a broad temperature range
that gives you optimum operation in the most variable
air temperatures. It withstands heavy loads and protects
against wear and corrosion.
More and more users are recognising the advantages of
using environmentally adapted lubricants. In applications
where lubricant is contaminating the surroundings, the
use of environmentally adapted lubricants will therefore
be a strong future demand. COP OIL is based on renewable raw materials that are readily biodegradable.
COP OIL is specially developed for Atlas Copco pneumatic
and hydraulic rock drills and down-the-hole hammers.

Biodegradibility according to OECD 301

100%
10 days
Readily biodegradable
60%

28 days

COP OIL.indd 1

Additives in the oil are:

Approved in accordance with the German authorities
Blue Angel
Approved in accordance with the Swedish
authorities Ren Smrja

Technical data
COP OIL

COP OIL
Mineral oil

FACE DRILLING

Excellent lubricating properties.

Reduces the risk of scoring and abrasion.
Protects against corrosion and oxidation.
Insensitive to air temperature variations. Works equally
well throughout the temperature range - 35C to + 45C
(-31oF to +113oF).
Adhesion and larger drop formation contribute to the
very good lubricating properties.
Based on > 90% renewable raw materials.
Readily biodegradable according to OECD301

Density, 15C:
Viscosity at 40C:
Viscosity at 100C:
Index of viscosity:
Flame point
Lowest flow temperature:
Part number
3115 3125 00
3115 3126 00
3115 3127 00

927 kg/m
65 cSt
13.4 cSt
215
250C (482F)
- 39C (-38F)
Can 10 litres
Can pallet 48 x 10 litres
Drum 208 litres

Using Atlas Copco COP OIL ensures that you are doing
your best for both the environment and your equipment!
151

2004-03-05, 10:11:31

COMPLEMENTARY EQUIPMENT

Mobile Service and Hose Workshops

For easy and convenient service of drill rigs and hydraulic hoses
When you invest in an Atlas Copco drill rig you
receive a quality product. Quality gives reliability,
availability and high productivity, which is essential
to make profit. But the quality of any machine has
to be maintained in order to give continuous high
performance and good operating economy.
And that can only be obtained through regular
preventive maintenance and the use of Genuine
Parts from Atlas Copco.
A service workshop located on site or close by is
the key solution to rapid maintenance and repair
routines. This is why Atlas Copco have designed
and equipped mobile workshops to serve different
servicing requirements.

pedestal; shelves; tool-board with tool hooks;

14 m-long hose rollup for air pressure; 17 m-long,
230 V electric cable rollup; writing desk with
lockable pedestal; powder fire extinguisher; first
aid panel; ventilation system; and heating fan.

Mobile Workshop
The fully equipped version of the Mobile
Workshop comes complete with standard tool kit,
comprising all hand tools needed for carrying out
service and repair work; 30 t hydraulic press, with
mandrel set; 500 kg extensible hoist beam with
manual tackle; and a smalI-part cleaning booth,
with exhaust. The Mobile Workshop can then
be completed with a number of well thoughtout options of special tools, instruments and
machinery to optimise efficiency. Mobile
Workshops are suitable for installation of drill bit
grinding equipment, and the Secoroc Grind Matic
Manual B air-powered, handheld portable grinding
machine can be supplied.

Convenient service
The latest enhanced versions of the well regarded
Atlas Copco Mobile Workshop and Mobile Hose
Workshop contain all of the equipment needed for
maintenance and increased availability of rockdrills
and drillrigs. They are housed in 20 ft ISO standard
steel containers, internally insulated and fitted with
non-slip aluminium floor plating. Each workshop
container is equipped with heating and has a
complete electric and compressed air line system
for immediate connection to external electrical and
pneumatic power sources.

Mobile Hose Workshop

A new approach to hose maintenance is the Mobile
Hose Workshop with the hose assembly centre,
a complete hose mounting workbench, designed
to fulfil all your needs for a safe and professional
assembly of hydraulic hoses with up to four
reinforcement layers. The centre is delivered with a
hose reel, cutting machine, peeling machine,
marking machine, hose cleaning equipment and
hose press. The centre is delivered with all the
necessary accessories.

Basic Mobile Workshop

The container can be delivered standard equip
as a Basic Mobile Workshop without any tools
or machinery for those who wish to equip the
container themselves. In this version it has a
workbench, 2.5 m-long with vice and lockable

Each container has two main doors at the

front that open completely, and on one side
they have a window with steel shutter.

View inside fully equipped

Mobile Workshop

View inside fully equipped

Mobile Hose Workshop

The containers have a base socket provided for

forklift transportation. The external dimensions of
the containers are 6.0 x 2.5 x 2.6 m, and they weigh
around 3 t, depending on equipment. The mobile
workshops can be delivered for 230V/50 Hz and
380V/50 Hz, or other voltages on request.

2600

General information

2500

6000

Visit www.facedrilling.com for more information

152

After market.indd 2

FACE DRILLING

2004-03-04, 13:27:13

SECOROC Magnum SR family:

Drifting equipment you can bank on
Magnum SR is a revolution for your bottom line.
Armed with this novel concept, youll be blasting,
rock bolting and advancing your tunnel quicker
and more cost-efficiently than ever before. How
can we be so sure? Because weve designed
(and rigorously tested) an ingenious new thread
system. Thanks to more material where its really
needed, the result is a stronger, more durable
drill string.
The family now consists of SR28, SR32 and SR35,
covering hole sizes from 33 mm up to 64 mm.
The addition of the new Dome bits to our already
extensive range of reaming equipment further
reinforces Magnum SR as the best possible
choice for drifting and bolting applications.

THP Communication

For more information on safe investments,

dont call your accountant. Talk to your local
Secoroc representative. Or head straight to
www.atlascopco.com.

Atlas Copco Secoroc AB

SE-737 25 Fagersta, Sweden
Phone: +46 223 461 00 Fax: +46 223 461 01
www.atlascopco.com

MagnumSR range uppd.indd 1

2004-03-19, 14:58:57

29/3/04

7:47 am

Page 1

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Atlas Copco supplies a wide range of cost-efcient

tunnelling and construction solutions, including
Boomer drill rigs, Secoroc rock drilling tools,
Swellex rockbolts, MAI self-drilling anchors and
fully-mechanized Boltec rock bolting rigs.
Each and every product has been designed to help
maximize your tunnel advance and minimize costs
per drilled metre.
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Because were a global organization, we have the

resources to be truly local.
Find out more at www.atlascopco.com and select
Country. Or give us a call. Wed be happy to
listen to your requirements, and even happier to
meet them.