GROUND SUPPORT & ROCK REINFORCEMENT
Holding fast
From pumpable resins and rockbolts to shotcreting technology, Paul Moore looks at some advances in underground rock support
One group of companies leading the development of ground support solutions is the mine utility specialists. MacLean Engineering is advancing the future of underground mining ground support with a dual focus on equipment innovation and strategic collaboration. The company highlighted two separate developments to IM: the evolution of the MacLean Bolter platform with its new Pumpable Resin System, and the company’ s partnership with Sika AG to deliver fully integrated shotcrete solutions. It adds:“ Together, these efforts reflect MacLean’ s commitment to improving safety, efficiency, and productivity in mining operations through fit-for-purpose technologies and performance-based systems.”
The MacLean Bolter is a trusted solution for both primary and secondary ground support in underground mining, with a long-standing reputation for safety, reliability, and performance. MacLean’ s bolter is designed for operators to always work under supported ground, minimising exposure and maximising safety. From a single machine setup, operators can bolt, scale, wash down the face, mark bootleg holes, and switch between different bolt types- streamlining the bolting process and improving productivity.
MacLean offers a range of bolter configurations to meet diverse mining needs: The 975 Bolter supports headings up to 5 metres, with a High-Reach Option for backs up to 7 m. The Small Section Bolter( SSB) is optimised for 3-5 m headings, depending on mine layout and access.
The newest advancement in MacLean’ s bolting platform is the Pumpable Resin System, available on 975 Bolters. This semi-automated system allows for full encapsulation of standard rebar bolts by pumping a two-part resin directly into the hole, resulting in faster, more ergonomic, and consistent installations. It improves ground control, reduces cycle times, and minimises operator effort.
Together, these features it says position the MacLean Bolter as a leading choice for underground mines focused on safety, flexibility, and performance.“ With continuous innovation and purpose-built designs, MacLean delivers solutions that meet today’ s mining demands while preparing for the challenges of tomorrow.”
MacLean has also joined forces with Sika AG, it says to redefine underground mining and tunnelling ground support.“ By combining MacLean’ s expertise in mobile mining equipment with Sika’ s leadership in chemical ground support solutions, the partnership delivers integrated, highperformance systems focused on safety, innovation, and operational efficiency.” MacLean brings five decades of underground equipment experience, offering a robust portfolio that includes bolters, shotcrete sprayers, utility carriers, and graders- tailored for hard rock mining. Sika contributes industry-leading shotcrete accelerators, admixtures, and sprayed concrete systems, backed by deep expertise in mining and construction chemicals.
Together, they offer a complete, mineready ground control package- mechanical and chemical- designed to streamline design, application, and maintenance of sprayed concrete and bolting systems underground. A key outcome is the integration of MacLean sprayers with Sika’ s advanced shotcrete technologies, forming
A recent partnership combines MacLean’ s expertise in mobile mining equipment with Sika’ s leadership in chemical ground support solutions
unified solutions that optimise the ground support cycle, particularly in deep and demanding mining environments.
The collaboration is timely, addressing industry pressures to do more with fewer resources while meeting higher safety and environmental standards. It enables mines to reduce cycle times, cut material waste, and extend support longevity through shared digital integration and data-driven practices.
This partnership also signals a broader shift in the mining supply chain: performance-based systems combining equipment and consumables. With aligned global networks and a commitment to innovation, MacLean and Sika provide mining operators with smarter, more efficient ground control solutions- setting new industry benchmarks above and below ground.
Getman on smarter shotcrete for deeper mining
As underground mines extend further below the horizon, operational complexity rises. Elevated stress conditions, thermal challenges, and shifting geology place greater demands on reinforcement strategies. In this environment, shotcrete has become an essential tool in maintaining stability, and Getman Corporation has introduced a comprehensive solution to support its efficient delivery and application.
With the newly developed ProMix concrete transporters and the ProShot application system, Getman offers an integrated approach that it says addresses both logistical and operational needs for modern ground support.
Central to any successful shotcreting operation is the consistent, timely movement of concrete to the point of application. Getman states that its ProMix 6 and ProMix 9 models deliver on this requirement with proven reliability and specialised design features. The ProMix 6 is built for projects with limited access, offering a 4.6 m ³ capacity. In contrast, the ProMix 9 supports higher-output operations with a larger 7.0 m ³ drum.
Both models are equipped with horizontal drums that incorporate hydraulic tilt mechanisms, enabling controlled material discharge on inclines or declines. Their variable-speed, bidirectional drum rotation ensures flexibility in maintaining the desired mix consistency. Operators benefit from intuitive control interfaces located at both the operator station and the discharge zone, enhancing ease of use and operational control.
International Mining | AUGUST 2025