All underground mines are exposed to the risk of rock falls, which pose significant hazards to workers and lead to a considerable number of injuries. While some hazards come from large collapses, the majority result from smaller rock falls. Ensuring proper roof support and selecting the right equipment - like roof bolters and underground scalers - are essential for maintaining safety in working areas.
Mine Master offers a comprehensive range of equipment for safe roof and ground support, including roof bolters, mining scalers, and custom solutions tailored to specific ground conditions and application needs. One of the key machines in their portfolio is the Roof Scaler 2.0 SB, a turn-key, custom-designed underground mining scaler developed for a mine in Zimbabwe. This machine is specially designed to inspect and scale the hanging wall.
The Roof Scaler RS 2.0 SB features a dual-boom setup with an inspection basket, capable of lifting two operators up to 6.2m high to visually inspect the roof. The second boom is equipped with a powerful hydraulic breaker to remove loose material, preventing uncontrolled rock falls. Designed for low mining heights, the Roof Scaler 2.0 SB has a tramming height of less than 2.0m and can operate on a diesel engine or electric network, depending on the mine’s resources.
For enhanced safety, the hydraulic breaker can be controlled from the operator’s compartment or remotely via a wireless control panel, allowing the operator to remain in a safe zone, guarded by a laser barrier. Additionally, the Roof Scaler 2.0 SB is compatible with any supplier's collision avoidance system and is equipped with wide-angle cameras and a "black box" for recording footage.
The rock salt formations at KGHM mine present unique challenges, where vibration-sensitive areas prevent the use of standard hydraulic breakers. For such environments, Mine Master and J.H. Fletcher offer a header-based scaling system. This ensures safe and effective scaling in difficult conditions, where traditional methods would be less efficient or unsafe.
For KGHM salt mine, Mine Master developed the Roof Scaler 3230-AD. This machine, designed to scale hanging walls, side walls, and foot walls, has a reach of up to 9.0m in height and 0.5m below ground surface. The mining scaler ensures safe and efficient scaling, with options for either a drum cutter or a pick. The machine can also be operated remotely from outside the cab, providing flexibility in scaling operations.
Mine Master has also developed auxiliary machines like the SWOI 1.4 and SWOI 1.7 for placing temporary hydraulic props. These props provide additional roof support by positioning between the roof and floor, with adjustments made via hydraulic hoses. The SWOI models enhance safety during temporary roof support tasks, minimizing the need for manual intervention.
Roof bolting is a widely used method for reinforcing mine roofs, and Mine Master offers advanced solutions for this critical task. In partnership with J.H. Fletcher, they developed machines like the Roof Master 1.4 and Roof Master 1.7K, designed for bolting in low seam heights. These roof bolters can install both mechanical and resin bolts in various lengths, providing flexibility for different mining operations.
Mine Master machines offer several advanced features to enhance drilling safety and efficiency in diverse geological conditions:
As mining operations shift towards reducing emissions, Mine Master has developed a battery-driven bolter, the Roof Master 1.8KE. This machine, tested at KGHM’s Lubin mine, offers a greener alternative by reducing gas emissions and improving overall safety. It is designed to operate in galleries from 3.0m to 5.8m and features a mechanized bolting mast for 1.8m bolts. The innovative charging system allows the battery to recharge using regenerative braking while tramming downhill.
For mines operating in explosive environments, Mine Master has developed the Roof Master 1.8 AWK ATEX, a fully certified roof bolter. This machine can operate in headings from 4.3m to 7.6m and features two types of drilling for different rock hardness levels. The option to switch between electric and diesel power sources adds flexibility, making the Roof Master 1.8 AWK ATEX an ideal solution for hazardous conditions.
The latest innovation from Mine Master is an automated bolting system installed on the new Roof Master 1.7KA. It represents a significant technological advance that not only improves the speed and accuracy of bolting, but more importantly reduces the risks associated with manual bolting. Designed in collaboration with J.H. Fletcher, the working unit with automated bolting system mounted on the Mine Master chassis will soon be tested at KGHM's underground mine. The implementation of such a system in underground mining offers several significant benefits, the most important of which is improved operator safety. It reduces the need for workers to be in close proximity to the bolting process, minimizing exposure to hazardous conditions and potential rockfalls.
Roof bolting and scaling are essential for ensuring the safety of underground mine workers. Mine Master’s wide range of roof bolters and underground mining scalers - in collaboration with J.H. Fletcher - provides flexible, safe, and efficient solutions tailored to meet the unique needs of each mine. With constant innovations like battery-driven bolters and explosion-proof machines, Mine Master remains committed to enhancing safety and productivity in underground mining operations.
Mine Master Spółka z o.o.
Wilków, 59-500 Złotoryja
ul. Dworcowa 27
tel: +48 (76) 87 83 511
info@minemaster.eu
NIP: 6940007277
PKD: 2892Z
REGON: 390234796
KRS: 0000114912
