NARROW VEIN & LOW PROFILE
Compact and capable
From small scalers to compact LHDs , Paul Moore looks again at the market for narrow vein and low profile machines in mining
While the priority in terms of for reducing emissions volume underground is still with the larger LHDs and trucks , it is just as important in the narrow vein and smaller machine market – and is easier to apply there given that the batteries can be more compact and more easily and quickly charged .
Komatsu has introduced the second generation of the company ’ s Z2 product line of small-class development drilling & bolting equipment with unique enhancements and additions , including the first battery-electric offerings within Komatsu ’ s underground hard rock portfolio , an innovative pumpable resin system solution , optimised ergonomics and more .
The small-class ZJ21 jumbo drill and ZB21 bolter initially launched in 2020 with a common platform . The new Z2 bolters and jumbos also feature optimised operator ergonomics designed to maximise comfort and visibility , user-friendly intuitive controls and engineering for groundlevel maintenance .
The bolter also introduces an optional Komatsu pumpable resin system using J-LOK P by Jennmar . The unique solution allows resin to be pumped into the drilled hole prior to bolt installation , permitting the use of more economical bolts and helping to decrease overall installed cost .
The second generation ZJ21 jumbo drill is a single-boom development drill with a fully enclosed ROPS / FOPS-certified operator cabin , innovative drilling feeds , advanced pilot hydraulics and renowned drifters manufactured by Montabert .
Both product lines now include battery-electric versions featuring Komatsu ’ s innovative approach to BEV with onboard , smart , opportunistic charging and designed for seamless integration and compatibility with existing mine infrastructure . The ZB21 and ZJ21 are the smallest size-class drills and bolters to offer a BEV option and feature a modular battery driveline with 83 kWh of onboard energy designed for demanding tram cycles and the challenges of hard rock mining .
“ As underground mining operations increasingly shift toward electrification of their fleets , our innovative , battery-powered Z2 jumbo drills and bolters will support that pivotal
AARD Powered by Epiroc and Epiroc CC Southern Africa recently completed a low profile Epiroc Boltec SL rebuild for a customer in Zimbabwe
transition . By integrating into existing infrastructure , we can help enhance productivity while helping to reduce operating costs ,” said Johan Kempe , Product Director for Underground Drilling at Komatsu . “ The rollout of our second generation Z2-class marks a milestone in our commitment to advancing mining technologies and building upon the proven success of our products to empower the future of mine operators .”
Aramine showcases powerful L440B
At the recent Electric Mine 2024 conference in Perth , Western Australia , May 21-23 , Vladimir Traskine , Key Regional Director , Aramine presented the French OEM ’ s latest mining machine - the battery-powered L440B mining
Komatsu has launched its 2nd gen line of small-class drilling and bolting rigs , including batteryelectric offerings
JUNE 2024 | International Mining 45