Spotlight Feature Articles GROUND SUPPORT & ROCK REINFORCEMENT | Page 5

GROUND SUPPORT & ROCK REINFORCEMENT
The unit includes storage tanks for the cement and for the additives . The Unigrout M2 Smart can be delivered with different set ups of the CEMAG agitator to comply with customer needs for different grout mixes simultaneously and it consists of two double pump systems . The platform can also be equipped with hydraulic legs for easy levelling when working in ramps .
The new Komatsu ZB21 bolter has a lot of new innovations – including the ability to integrate the Jennmar J-LOK P pumpable resin injection system
expand availability for additional J-LOK customers around the world .
J-LOK P is capable of over a year shelf life under proper storage conditions . Long stability and storage life can simplify inventory and allows greater capability to keep what is needed in stock for the long haul . Composition is also free of isocyanates , the harsh carcinogenic chemicals found in urea silicates . Compared to urea silicates , J-LOK has several advantages . There is reduced concern for product deterioration or chemical change of materials in the changing and harsh temperature conditions of underground hard rock environments , or when transferring the J-LOK P product . J-LOK P is also less susceptible to corrosion . The cartridge resin is easier to clean and maintain . Plus , J-LOK P is also less sensitive to imperfections in the borehole versus urea silicates . The J-LOK P retrofit solution is compatible with all major and most other OEMs , allowing customers to transform nearly any brand of bolting machine in their fleet . Komatsu states : “ Our drilling experts will work with you to assess the benefit you ’ ll get from retrofitting to the J-LOK P system , as well as help create a plan based on a focused application and solution optimisation approach .”
It also represents the first time that the wellknown Rig Control System ( RCS ) has been used in the Unigrout product family . This means that Epiroc is introducing both digitalisation and automation to its grouting business .
It means that it is now possible to gather detailed drilling data for the Unigrout system in real time from an Epiroc drill rig . The operator can then be better prepared and able to optimise the injection process when knowing the conditions of every drilled hole .
Thanks to RCS the injection will also be automated . The RCS will monitor and automatically keep the right pressure and flow for each hole until the concrete has hardened .
Unigrout Smart also combines automation with an accurate mixing system , including possibilities of automated mixing formulas including the possibility of adding additives in the mix or direct in the grouting hole . All being monitored through the on board LOGAC system .
Minova and CarboThix in mining
This year Minova is celebrating 20 years since the development and launch of CarboThix , the first bulk delivered two-component thixotropic pumpable silicate resin . Much has happened since 2002 in the field of rock bolting . Although CarboThix ’ s three main versions continue to be pumped with the versatility of cost-effective Minova SK90 gear pumps using mine skids and lifts , the last decade of research and development have been committed to working with bolting rig manufacturers to assist in the full mechanisation of bolting utilising Minova ’ s original MAI hollow bolts ( with the option of a drill bit for one step installation in problematic ground ), immediately post-grouted and secured with CarboThix , supplied directly from the onboard resin tanks of the main drill rig , via the rig pumping system and interchangeable static mixers at the injection nozzle .
Long-term testing of Minova ’ s UniPass solution ( the name given to the hollow bolt and pumpable resin system ) in LKAB ’ s Kiruna mine in northern Sweden and adoption by Vale Canada ’ s Voisey ’ s Bay mine , has created the platform and confidence leading to uptake in new mines . However , Peter Assinder , Minova Global Head of Strategic Marketing and Technology told IM : “ It remains important to have early stakeholder
Epiroc Unigrout M2 Smart
The next generation of grouting technology is coming from Epiroc in the form of its Unigrout M2 Smart , described as a grouting system with a brain . Unigrout M2 Smart combines a compact design with automation , “ offering superb versatility , accurate and automated batching and increased mixing capacity .” This Unigrout range is suitable for applications requiring high quality control and operation excellence .
Unigrout M2 Smart unit being transported recently for testing
AUGUST 2022 | International Mining