What Are Underground Drill Rigs Used For?

The primary role of an underground drill rig is to prepare the rock face for blasting. The machine positions its drill boom against the heading face, drills a planned pattern of holes, and those holes are then loaded with explosives and fired. The quality of the blast depends directly on the accuracy and consistency of the drilling.

Underground face drilling rigs are used for:

• preparing blast holes for production and development rounds
• tunnel driving and cross-cut development
• excavation in a wide range of rock conditions — from soft sedimentary rock to hard granite or quartzite
• drilling in constrained spaces such as low seams and narrow vein deposits

Precise hole placement creates clean excavation geometry at the face, floor, roof and sidewalls — reducing the need for scaling, simplifying roof bolting and lowering material loss through the entire production cycle.

Main Types of Underground Drill Rigs

Underground drilling equipment comes in a wide range of configurations. The main distinctions are based on excavation height, boom configuration, and the geological environment in which the machine will operate.

Jumbo drill rigs are the standard workhorse for medium and large underground excavations — powerful mining jumbo drill rigs designed for high-output face drilling. Available in single boom and twin boom configurations.

Low profile drill rigs are purpose-built for mines where working height is severely constrained — typically chrome, platinum and narrow-reef gold operations where seams may limit height to as little as 1.6 metres. These are not scaled-down jumbos: every component is rethought to function in a space barely taller than a person.

Narrow vein drill rigs address a different constraint: width rather than height. Designed to manoeuvre and drill effectively in headings that are tall enough but extremely tight laterally.

Single boom vs twin boom: a single boom rig drills one hole at a time; a twin boom rig operates two booms simultaneously, covering a larger face area in less time. Twin boom suits high-output, large-face operations; single boom offers greater manoeuvrability in tighter headings.

Comparison Table: Types of Underground Drill Rigs

The table below compares the main categories of underground drill rigs by application type, minimum working height and example models from Mine Master's face drilling rig range. Use it as a starting reference — the right choice always depends on the specific conditions of your operation.

Diesel and Battery Electric Drive

Diesel remains the dominant drive system across the industry — proven, reliable and independent of underground electrical infrastructure. Battery electric drive is the clear direction of development: electric machines produce zero exhaust emissions, reduce heat load underground by eliminating the combustion engine, and operate significantly more quietly — which directly reduces ventilation costs and improves working conditions for operators. The right choice depends on the specific conditions and infrastructure of each mine.

Safety, Automation and Special Requirements

Modern underground drill rigs must meet demanding safety and environmental standards:

• ATEX certification — required in coal mines and other workings where methane may be present
• Ergonomics — closed, air-conditioned cabs, good visibility, low vibration levels and intuitive controls reduce operator fatigue on long shifts
• Automation systems — BMS, FGS and ADS add layers of data capture, operator guidance and autonomous drilling, reducing exposure at the face and improving consistency

For a full explanation of how drilling automation works and what it delivers in practice, see our dedicated article on automatic drilling systems in underground mining.

How to Choose the Right Underground Drill Rig

There is no universal solution. Key factors include: working height and width, rock hardness and abrasiveness, required drilling pattern, available infrastructure and safety requirements. Mine Master works with customers at the specification stage to configure machines for the actual conditions of their operation — see our article on custom underground mining machines for more.

FAQ – Frequently Asked Questions About Underground Drill Rigs

Find answers to the most common questions about underground face drilling rigs, their types and applications in underground mining.

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This victory was of particular significance — not only as a win in the final match, but also as confirmation of the team’s dominance throughout the season. The Mine Master team remained unbeaten, and winning the Lower Silesia Championship is the crowning achievement of their consistent and effective play.

The team’s successes would not have been possible without stable backing and sponsorship support. Mine Master Sp. z o.o., as the team’s strategic partner, actively supports the development of sport in the region and promotes values such as cooperation, determination and the pursuit of goals.

Thanks to winning the title, KKS Mine Master Złotoryja will host the semi-final tournament, with promotion to the next stage of the national competition and a real chance to play in the Second Division at stake.

For the team from Złotoryja, this is another step in their sporting development and confirmation of the club’s growing position on the Polish volleyball map, says Mine Master’s chairman, Jerzy Nadolny. Our company’s involvement in the club’s activities is an example of consistently building the local community and supporting initiatives that inspire and bring residents together.

Artykuł KKS Mine Master: Lower Silesia Champions pochodzi z serwisu Mine Master.

Designed for Ultra-Low Underground Conditions

Low-profile mining environments impose strict constraints on equipment. Limited excavation heights demand machines that are compact enough to maneuver safely, yet capable of delivering consistent drilling performance under pressure.

The FLP1410 was engineered specifically for these conditions. With a minimum machine height of 1.4 meters, it operates efficiently in excavations starting from just 1.6 meters — making it suitable for the demanding environments of chrome, platinum and narrow-reef gold mines across southern Africa, including ultra-deep operations where working conditions are particularly challenging.

The machine builds on the earlier FLP1400-1B model, with targeted improvements driven directly by operator and maintenance team feedback:

• The operator's cab was redesigned for more space and improved ergonomics, with the cooling system upgraded from a fan to a full air-conditioning unit
• Low noise and vibration levels reduce operator fatigue during long shifts
• Access to service components was improved, making daily maintenance faster and more straightforward

Three Levels of Automation: BMS, FGS and ADS

The FLP1410's key differentiator is its automation architecture — a layered system that allows mines to adopt technology progressively, at their own pace.

Basic Monitoring System (BMS) comes as standard on every FLP1410. It continuously collects and records drilling parameters — penetration rate, pressure and deviations for each individual hole — providing the operational data needed for blast planning, rock mass analysis and predictive maintenance.

Feeder Guiding System (FGS) is an optional upgrade that projects the planned drill pattern directly onto the rock face. This allows the operator to position each hole precisely according to the drilling plan, without the need for geological face markings — improving accuracy while keeping the operator in control.

Automatic Drilling System (ADS) takes the process further. Once the machine is correctly positioned, it executes the full drilling cycle autonomously. This is what makes the FLP1410 the only super-low profile machine on the market with fully automated drilling capability.

Safety: The Primary Argument for Automation

Productivity gains from automation are significant. But for the Mine Master and Komatsu development teams, safety was the most important driver.

Underground drillers in low-profile environments face concentrated exposure to rock falls, dust, noise and ergonomic strain. The ADS addresses this directly: once the machine is operating autonomously, the operator can move away from the immediate drilling zone, monitoring the process from a safer distance rather than standing at the face. This near-eliminates several of the most serious risk categories in low-profile drilling and aligns with the broader industry shift toward process supervision over hazardous manual tasks.

Precision That Improves the Entire Production Chain

More precise hole placement produces better excavation geometry across the face, floor, roof and sidewalls. The downstream benefits include improved blasting performance and rock fragmentation, reduced or eliminated need for scaling, easier roof bolting operations, and lower material loss and dilution. Precision at the drilling stage creates a compounding improvement across the full mining cycle.

By controlling drilling parameters tightly and preventing overloads, the ADS also reduces wear on consumable components such as drill bits by up to 30 percent — lowering operating costs and supporting more predictable maintenance planning.

Proven at Dwarsrivier Chrome Mine

The FLP1410 with ADS was successfully deployed at Dwarsrivier Chrome Mine in the Eastern Limb of South Africa, a low-profile room-and-pillar operation within the Assmang Group. Operational experience from this environment validated the machine's performance in demanding geological conditions and demonstrated the practical value of automated drilling for mines facing the dual challenge of ultra-low excavations and the need for consistent, high-quality output.

The FLP1410 has also received formal industry recognition: it was awarded both the Master of Technology of the Copper Belt 2023 and the Lower Silesian Master of Technology 2023 titles by the Supreme Technical Organization — recognition of the engineering achievement behind the machine and its ADS system.

FAQ – Frequently Asked Questions about the FLP1410

Artykuł Low Profile Drill Rig Automation: FLP1410 by Mine Master in South Africa pochodzi z serwisu Mine Master.

What is roof bolting?

Roof bolting is an active method of supporting underground excavations and is currently a standard solution used in mines worldwide. Unlike older passive methods, such as timber props or temporary supports, roof bolting does not rely solely on propping the rock, but on reinforcing the structure of the rock mass as a whole.

By installing rock bolts:

• rock layers are stabilised,
• the risk of rock falls is reduced,
• the safety of personnel and machinery is improved,
• safe continuation of further mining operations is enabled.

Why is roof bolting so important in underground mining?

Conditions in underground excavations change as mining operations progress. As mining depth increases, stresses in the rock mass grow, the structure of the rock changes, and the roof and sidewalls are subjected to constant loads.

Lack of proper roof bolting may lead to a gradual loss of excavation stability, detachment of rock fragments, and in extreme cases to rock falls posing a threat to miners' lives. Roof bolting therefore acts as a preventive measure aimed at eliminating hazards before they occur.

A well-designed and properly executed roof bolting system:

• improves work safety,
• reduces technological downtime,
• stabilises operating conditions,
• supports the long-term organisation of mining operations.

What does the roof bolting process involve?

The roof bolting process carried out using a roof bolter machine is a sequence of repeatable and precise operations. It begins with proper positioning of the machine in the excavation, followed by drilling a hole in the roof or sidewall. In the next step, a rock bolt, mechanical or resin-grouted, is installed and, once anchored, transfers loads to more stable layers of the rock mass.

The entire process must be:

• repeatable, to ensure a consistent level of safety,
• precise, due to changing geological conditions,
• adapted to a specific mine, its geology and work organisation.

For this reason, bolting machines are designed to allow flexible configuration of operating parameters and safe operation by the operator.

What is a roof bolter – a bolting machine?

A roof bolter is a self-propelled mining machine designed for drilling holes and installing roof and sidewall rock bolts in underground excavations. It is a specialised piece of equipment that combines drilling, bolt handling and proper anchoring in the rock mass.

Machines of this type are designed to operate in confined spaces, under difficult environmental conditions, while maintaining high standards of operator safety.

Typical features of bolting machines include:

• working booms adapted for roof and sidewall operations,
• drilling and bolting systems,
• operator cabins providing ergonomics and protection,
• advanced hydraulic and control systems.

Types of roof bolter machines

Bolting machines can be classified according to several key criteria. The table below presents the most common classifications together with examples of Mine Master solutions.

Types of bolting machines – overview

Mine Master roof bolters – overview of solutions

Mine Master designs bolting machines based on many years of experience working with mines around the world. The portfolio includes both compact machines for low-profile excavations and solutions for more demanding operating conditions.

RLP 1410

A compact bolting machine designed for operation in low-profile excavations. Its design enables safe and efficient work in confined spaces while maintaining high stability and bolting precision.

Roof Master 1.7K

A universal bolting machine used in underground mines with varied geological conditions. Its proven design and flexible configuration options make it a popular solution in many mining operations.

Roof Master 1.8 AWK

A classic diesel-powered roof bolter designed for standard excavations. It combines high productivity with reliability in demanding operating conditions.

Roof Master 1.8 AWK ATEX

A version adapted for operation in explosion-hazard zones. It meets ATEX certification requirements while maintaining the functionality and ergonomics of the base version.

Roof Master 1.8 KE

A battery-electric roof bolter designed to improve working conditions in underground excavations. Zero exhaust emissions and reduced noise levels make it a solution for mines focused on modern technologies.

Roof Master 2.3 AWKR / 2.310 AWK

Machines designed for larger excavation cross-sections and more demanding applications, offering a wide range of working equipment configurations.

The Mine Master approach

Mine Master machines operate in mines all over the world. Each configuration is selected individually, taking into account geological, organisational and safety conditions. The portfolio includes both standard solutions and machines serving as a base for further customisation, enabling precise adaptation of equipment to the needs of a specific mine.

FAQ – frequently asked questions about roof bolting

Artykuł Roof bolting – what is roof bolting and what are roof bolter machines used for? pochodzi z serwisu Mine Master.

The award ceremony took place at the NOT headquarters in Legnica, and our solution was recognised for its innovative approach, high technical efficiency and significant contribution to the development of the Polish mining machinery industry.

Words of appreciation and congratulations were given to the authors of the project:

Lesław Ostapów, Witold Hnat, Grzegorz Nadolny, Mariusz Młyńczak, Robert Rak, Marcin Wachełka, Jan Kowal and Jacek Karliński.

‘The NOT Master of Technology Award is a token of appreciation for our engineering staff and the entire Mine Master team. For us, it is confirmation that continuous investment in technological development, innovation and quality brings real results – both for customers and for the entire mining industry,’ emphasise company representatives.

The new Production Master 2.310 is a drilling rig designed for drilling long holes in underground conditions, ensuring even greater accuracy, safety and efficiency. The project is an example of the effective combination of experience, technical knowledge and innovative approach of our specialists.

Artykuł Mine Master wins the NOT 2024 Master of Technology title! pochodzi z serwisu Mine Master.

Euromines represents the collective voice of the European mining and minerals sector, promoting responsible mining, sustainable resource management, and innovation across Europe. As a member, Mine Master joins a network of industry leaders dedicated to advancing a safe, sustainable, and competitive European mining industry.

Through this membership, Mine Master reaffirms its commitment to innovation, safety, and sustainability in mining operations — values that align closely with Euromines’ mission to foster responsible and forward-looking mining practices.

We look forward to engaging with fellow members and stakeholders to help shape the future of Europe’s mining and minerals industry.

Artykuł Mine Master Joins Euromines – Strengthening Europe’s Mining Future pochodzi z serwisu Mine Master.

Advancing safety and productivity in underground drill rigs

The new rig revolutionizes low-profile drilling capabilities, offering precise and consistent results while significantly reducing risks for operators. By automating core processes, the system minimizes operator exposure within hazardous zones — keeping safety, a cornerstone of mining operations, at the forefront.

Key benefits of the low profile drilling rig FLP1410

Among its standout advantages:

• Supervision by one operator over multiple rigs.
• Faster advancement and improved drilling efficiency.
• Enhanced geometry of the face, floor, roof, and sidewalls.
• No geological marking required on the face thanks to a built-in guide system linked directly to the drilling plan.

Alongside its Automated Drilling System (ADS), Mine Master has also introduced the Feeder Guidance System (FGS) on the FLP1410 low-profile drill rig. This advanced support technology enables operators to achieve highly precise manual drilling in line with the drill pattern, further improving both geometry and advancement.

With these innovations, Mine Master continues to set new benchmarks in underground mining technology, empowering operations to become safer, more productive, and more efficient.

Artykuł Mine Master Launches First-Ever Low-Profile Automated Underground Drill Rig in South Africa pochodzi z serwisu Mine Master.

Award-Winning Drill Rig: Face Master 2.320 SMS/UCIL

The award recognizes our Face Master 2.320 SMS/UCIL – a next-generation, self-propelled multifunctional drilling rig designed for underground mining.
This machine showcases our commitment to engineering innovation and practical solutions for demanding conditions.

Honored Among Poland’s Top Engineers

This recognition at a national-level congress motivates us to keep pushing the boundaries of Polish mechanical engineering and strengthen our position as a developer of advanced mining machines.

Artykuł Mine Master Wins Technology Master Award for Face Master 2.320 SMS/UCIL pochodzi z serwisu Mine Master.

Strong visitor interest and Gold Medal for Best Exhibition Booth

Over the course of the three days, both the machine and the simulator drew long lines of visitors. The strong interest in our booth was recognized by the Congress jury – we were awarded the Gold Medal for Best Exhibition Booth.

Plenary session recognition for the Roof Master 1.7KA

We were also honored during the plenary session, where we presented our latest innovation: the Roof Master 1.7KA bolter with an automatic mast, currently undergoing testing at KGHM. This recognition underscores the innovation and real-world applicability of our solutions in modern underground mining.

An international forum for the mining and metallurgy industry

The event was organized by the Association of Mining Engineers and Technicians – Lubin Branch, the Employers' Association of Polish Copper, and the Association of Non-Ferrous Metals Engineers and Technicians. The Congress gathered representatives of mining and metallurgy companies, research institutions, and the academic and industrial communities from Poland and abroad.

Artykuł Our Booth Wins Gold at the 2025 International Copper Mining and Metallurgy Congress pochodzi z serwisu Mine Master.