Epiroc relaunches updated Rod Handling System for enhanced safety and operator comfort

“At Epiroc, we are continuously improving our equipment – and the Rod Handling System is no exception. This Rod Handling System is developed with safety in mind for our core drilling customers all around the globe. The new updates on the system will increase its reliability in all weather conditions”, says Paulo Dinis, Acting Product Manager, Christensen at Epiroc.

The Rod Handling System is designed to keep the drilling crew out of harm's way whilst performing core drilling. The product improves safety and crew comfort and has now been updated with recent inputs from the field.
“We have made important changes to the shuttle that greatly improves the operation. The system will work more consistently in all weather conditions”, says Paulo Dinis. 

The Rod Handling System, available as an option, allows for a seamless addition and removal of drill rods, and the core barrel inner tubes. Thanks to hands-free rod tripping, the operator assistant uses an assistant control panel instead of manually adding the rods. There is no need to manually add or remove rods by hand. This will reduce fatigue and increase safety and comfort for the crew.
“This solution reduces fatigue for the operator assistant and minimizes the risk of injuries during the rod-loading process”, says Paulo Dinis. .

The Rod Handling System has been available as an option for Christensen CT20 and Christensen 140 for some time. Epiroc is now adding BoylesC6/C to the list of applicable products.
“I’m very glad to add the BoylesC6/C core drilling rig to this list. This solution will strengthen the Boyles product family and be beneficial for Boyles customers around the world”, says Seven Geng, Product Manager, Boyles, at Epiroc.  

• Enhanced safety: The automated rod handling process eliminates the need for manual intervention, significantly reducing the risk of accidents and injuries.
• Reduce operator fatigue: The system ensures consistent and efficient operations, leading to reduced downtime.
• Operator comfort: The hands-free operation provides a more comfortable working environment for operators, reducing physical strain and fatigue.
  
  The updated Rod Handling System is available for orders as of November 20, 2025

Epiroc is a global productivity partner for mining and infrastructure customers, and accelerates the transformation toward a sustainable society. With ground-breaking 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 around SEK 64 billion in 2024, and has around 19 000 passionate employees supporting and collaborating with customers in around 150 countries. Learn more at www.epirocgroup.com.

Epiroc’s Surface division develops, manufactures and markets a wide range of rock drilling equipment and solutions for use in surface mining, construction, quarries, as well as water well applications worldwide. It also provides customers with exploration equipment, tooling and advanced orebody data analysis. The division has production in Sweden, the United States, Canada, China, India, Australia and South Africa. Please see www.epiroc.com for product offerings.