August 24, 2022
The Automatic Bit Changer makes it possible for operators to complete hands-free drill bit changes with the single touch of a button and to stay informed on their screen. Operators can make or break joints, select drill bits, and add or remove them. This can be done from either a remotely-based control room or from the comfort of the cab. The Automatic Bit Changer optimizes productivity and efficiency of the drilling operation and improves safety by eliminating exposure to live work environments.
“The early collaboration with customers and cross-functional teams resulted in an auto bit changer that is repeatable, keeps the operator out of the line of fire, and improves machine uptime,” said Matthew Fosler, Senior Design Engineer, Surface division.
Epiroc’s Automatic Bit Changer decreases downtime and eases operator workloads. The carousel design allows up to four bits to be easily changed significantly faster and safer than a single manual exchange. The removable bit carousel can store rotary tricone bits in varying sizes and cutting structure, for a total of four onboard bits, for flexibility and versatility on a drill site. Featured in the unique carousel design, the Automatic Bit Changer gives users the ability to safely replace the worn drill bits with a range of bit types and sizes from a safe distance without exposure to live work.
"Through its development and trial, the Automatic Bit Changer has proven to be the safest and most efficient way to change bits that is currently available."
Available for new drills and retrofit of drills already in the field, the Automatic Bit Changer is easy to maintain, and its compact, above deck design takes up less space in comparison to competitors’ designs. The above deck design ensures maintenance procedures are simpler and safer to perform, operator viewing angles are optimized and retrofits for the working Pit Viper fleet are available.
Customizing a Pit Viper 270 or Pit Viper 290 drill rig with the Automatic Bit Changer option offers many benefits for the operator. In addition to easing their workload, it reduces the possibility of human error, injuries related to heavy lifting, lost time on manual adjustments, accidents and exposure to dust and noise. Eliminating these live work tasks is crucial in the mining industry.
By eliminating manual drill changes, increasing machine uptime and decreasing worker injuries, Epiroc’s Automatic Bit Changer supports a more productive and profitable operation.
"It has been truly an honor to be a part of this product’s development and I cannot wait to see the impact it will make in our industry", said Carla Chaname, Product Manager, Automation, Surface division.
Visit the Epiroc Automatic Bit Changer's product page here.
Press release from Epiroc Drilling Solutions LLC
Surface division
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Epiroc is a vital part of a sustainable society and a global productivity partner for mining and infrastructure customers. With groundbreaking technology, Epiroc develops and provides innovative and safe equipment, such as drill rigs, rock excavation and construction equipment and tools for surface and underground applications. The company also offers world-class service and other aftermarket support as well as solutions for automation, digitalization and electrification. Epiroc is based in Stockholm, Sweden, had revenues of SEK 36 billion in 2020, and has 15 000 passionate employees supporting and collaborating with customers in more than 150 countries. Learn more at www.epirocgroup.com.
Epiroc’s Surface division develops, manufactures and markets a wide range of rock drilling equipment for use in surface mining, exploration, construction, quarries, as well as water well and energy applications worldwide. The division has production in Sweden, the United States, China, India and Japan. Please see www.epiroc.com for product offerings.
