1990 ’ s when Booysen Bore migrated from jumper rigs to percussion rigs and began using Atlas Copco compressors . “ We initially chose Atlas Copco because it was one of the leading compressor manufacturers globally with a reputation that preceded them ,” states Hennie . “ Throughout the nineties we purchased many compressors from Atlas Copco ’ s Compressor Technique business area and towards the end of that decade we bought our very first ROC L8 surface drill rig .”
At present , Booysen Bore operates a fleet of FlexiROC D60 , D65 , D65 Smart , as well as several different core drilling machines . “ Our oldest FlexiROC is a 2012 D60 model that has run for 50 000 hours ,” affirms Hennie . “ Under extreme surface and weather conditions , we drill into some of the hardest rocks in the world , with compressive strengths exceeding 500 MPa ; so these rugged drilling machines take a tremendous beating and their reliability is unquestionable .” Owing to Epiroc ’ s ongoing innovations in engineering , designs and technologies , FlexiROC drill rigs have evolved over the years , meeting industry standards and offering increased performance and robustness to withstand the most stringent conditions that can be thrown at them .
Engines and compressors have become more powerful and efficient , cooling systems have been improved , hole alignment is faster and more accurate and fault finding and troubleshooting are offered . Additionally , chain feed replaced cable feed and SmartROC features fuel saving technology with HNS and One Touch Drilling options .
“ These innovations have made drilling so much more efficient , saving us both time and money in the long run . It is impossible to find a better machine than an Epiroc ! As a result of their classbeating rugged reliability and alignment with advanced technology , we continue to purchase FlexiROC machines from Epiroc . The value add to our business is priceless . When reliability is combined with availability and a good team , you cannot ask for anything more ,” stresses Hennie .
As a global leader in drilling and underground mining machines and equipment , Epiroc is renowned for building longstanding partnerships with customers and being part of the customer ’ s journey , from enquiry to aftermarket support . Hennie concludes , “ The aftermarket support we receive from Epiroc , and in particular , Jacobus Pretorius and Wynand van Straten , is exceptional . We receive prompt response times , technical knowledge , guidance , and advice . It is also important to note that FlexiROC machines are exceptionally well maintained and there is excellent availability of parts and spares .”
As Booysen Bore looks to the future , the company affirms its commitment to the ongoing delivery of quality service to current and future customers . Armed with the core values of integrity , respect , continuous learning , service excellence and giving back , Booysen Bore is aiming at new opportunities considering the growth potential of Southern Africa .
FLTR Wynand Van Straten , Epiroc _ Booysen Bore ’ s Hennie Booysen , Hein Booysen & Pieter Malan taking ownership of the 80th Epiroc machine
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