Underground Drill Rigs: 5 Key Features for Enhanced Mining Efficiency

Underground drill rigs, also known as drilling jumbos, are specialized machines designed to drill blast holes in underground mining environments. These rigs play a crucial role in mining operations by enhancing safety, precision, and productivity. Each model varies based on factors like the type of rock, seam height, and unique mining requirements, making it essential for companies to select the rig that best suits their operational needs.

Below, we explore five critical features that mining professionals should consider when selecting an underground drill rig.

1. Low-Profile Design for Tight Spaces

In low-seam mining environments, like narrow vein mines, low-profile drill rigs are essential to navigate confined spaces while maintaining stability and performance.

• Face Master 1.7 – Designed for low-profile room-and-pillar operations, this single-boom drill rig operates effectively in seams as low as 1.7 meters. Compact and highly maneuverable, it is equipped with the Mine Master drifter MM 20, providing both reliability and cost-efficiency for tight spaces.
• Face Master 1.7D – This autonomous, diesel-powered model is ideal for remote sites without access to external power or water. Thanks to its compact dimensions and robust design, it can operate independently, making it suitable for challenging environments like permafrost areas.

2. Autonomy and Diesel Power for Remote Operations

Autonomous capabilities are invaluable in undeveloped or isolated areas of a mine. Diesel-powered rigs provide continuous operation in sections without access to power and water sources.

• Face Master 1.7D – Fully autonomous with a diesel engine and integrated water tank, this rig eliminates the need for external connections, maximizing efficiency in remote sections.
• Face Master 1.7K – An autonomous model with an air-conditioned, filtered cabin (H2S protection), designed for operator comfort and safety. It also features a telescopic boom for easy maintenance and enhanced versatility.

3. Safety Features for Hazardous Environments

Safety is paramount in underground mining, especially in fire-prone or explosive atmospheres. Models with advanced safety systems and ATEX certification, such as the Face Master 1.8 RS and Face Master 2.8 ATEX, are built for such conditions.

• Face Master 1.8 RS – This rig is designed for high-risk environments like salt and oil shale mines, with fire suppression features, an onboard water tank, and dust suppression capabilities, ensuring both operator safety and high drilling efficiency.
• Face Master 2.8 ATEX – Built for hard rock mining with potential explosion risks, this rig includes a gas detection system that can automatically shut down the machine upon detecting hazardous gases, maximizing safety in challenging conditions.

4. Twin-Boom Rigs for Large-Scale Operations

For extensive drilling tasks, twin-boom rigs provide maximum productivity by covering large areas efficiently. These rigs are ideal for high-output drilling in medium-profile galleries.

• Face Master 2.320 – Equipped with powerful 20 kW drifters and flow-sharing hydraulics, this rig covers up to 53 m², making it well-suited for medium to large mining projects.
• Face Master 3.0 – This twin-boom rig includes an operator basket for high-access drilling, suitable for headings up to 12.9 meters wide and 8.2 meters high. It combines robust aluminum feeders with hydraulic control, minimizing maintenance needs while maximizing performance.

5. Advanced Control and Monitoring Systems for Precision Drilling

Modern underground drill rigs come with advanced control and monitoring systems that enhance drilling precision, track performance, and provide real-time feedback for optimized operations.

• Basic Monitoring System (BMS) and Drilling Monitoring System (DMS) – These systems offer real-time data feedback, allowing operators to adjust parameters and achieve precise drilling patterns.
• Feeder Guiding System (FGS) – Assists operators in drilling accuracy, with data recording capabilities for supervisors to monitor productivity and analyze results.

Conclusion

Choosing the right underground drill rig is essential for efficient, safe, and productive mining operations. Key features like low-profile designs, autonomy, safety systems, twin-boom setups, and precision monitoring enhance the functionality of these rigs in diverse mining conditions. With models like the Face Master 1.7, Face Master 1.7D, and Face Master 2.320, MineMaster provides tailored solutions to meet the unique demands of underground mining.

To explore the complete range of MineMaster's underground drill rigs and their specifications, visit the official product pages on their website.