Drilling at the forefront: the new automated SmartROC D65

The new SmartROC D65 has the intelligence and power to consistently and efficiently drill high-quality blast holes with accuracy and precision, and is loaded with smart features such as automated drilling and rod handling. 

“The SmartROC D65 really proves the power of autonomous machinery and brings the future of mining within reach today,” says Mattias Hjerpe, Global Product Manager at Epiroc. “Automation is revolutionizing the industry, and we want our customers to remain at the forefront to secure the rewards.”

The SmartROC D65 is available in three different feed beam sizes to carry five, six or eight-meter pipes, and has the capacity to drill down to a depth of 56 meters. When using 8-meter pipes, it is possible to drill 16-meter production holes with just one rod adding. The added power of the COP M7 hammer enables the SmartROC D65 to drill holes up to 9 inches (110 to 229 millimeters) in diameter. Thanks to intelligent control of compressor load and engine rpm, the SmartROC D65 not only helps to optimize the blasting process with improved fragmentation.

It also cuts an already low fuel consumption by a further 20% compared to the same size FlexiROC rig model. In addition, the rig offers multifunction joysticks and adjustable-speed tramming to further improve operator comfort and make trailer loading safer and easier.

“The new SmartROC D65 will help our customers to decrease operational costs and boost productivity,” says Hjerpe. “Automation translates to greater efficiency, and efficiency translates to greater profits.”

The operator interacts with the rig’s advanced control system via a responsive, 15-inch touchscreen that presents everything from drilling parameters and diagnostics to real-time Measure While Drilling data (MWD). In addition, the updated SmartROC D65 is equipped with an efficient hydraulic system that reduces fuel burn and works with fewer pumps and hoses than the previous versions.

The new SmartROC D65 uses 300 liters less hydraulic oil than previous versions. As other new features and improvements are released, they can easily be installed via software upgrades to keep the SmartROC D65 up-to-date and on the cutting edge at all times.

Yet another intelligent new rig from Epiroc, the SmartROC D60, has been updated with the new automation-ready platform. This robust and dependable surface drill rig features a shorter boom specially designed for efficient and demanding quarry work. Visit Bauma and Epiroc at stand 1208/1 for more information.