Boart Longyear launches MDR700, the next generation underground coring rig with advanced mobility

Boart Longyear has announced the launch of the new MDR700, the next generation underground coring rig with advanced mobility. — Photo courtesy Boart Longyear

Boart Longyear has announced the launch of the new MDR700, the next generation underground coring rig with advanced mobility. The MDR700 is a powerful rig that utilizes proven Boart Longyear underground exploration technology like the LM™ 700 feed frame and offers wide drilling angles, quick setup, easy operation and maintenance, advanced mobility and engineered safety controls.

Wide Drilling Angles

The next-generation design of the integrated positioner and turntable offers extremely wide drilling angles and impressive reach to make positioning and drilling a series of holes easier. The rig features sophisticated articulations with three turning points so you can drill 270 degrees horizontally and vertically up to vertically down. The MDR700 also allows you to drill in a spherical manner without having to reposition the unit.

Quick and Easy Setup, Operation and Maintenance

Setup is quick and easy with the fully hydraulic positioning system and handheld remote controller. Rig moves are faster and easier with the four-wheel drive diesel engine-powered Manitou carrier. Operating the MDR700 and the rod handler is smooth and easy when paired with the optional Drill Control Interface (DCi). And the MDR700’s maintenance-friendly layout provides easy access for hydraulic servicing.

Advanced Mobility for Increased Productivity

The mobility of the new MDR700 is a time-saver when moving from hole to hole using an agile Manitou diesel-powered four-wheel drive carrier. In a study where the rig was moved 500 meters (547 yards), the average time to move the MDR700 rig from hole to hole proved to be 80% faster than a regular underground exploration rig. The carrier features three available steering modes – four-wheel, two-wheel and crab-like movement – so maneuvering the rig underground is easier and faster. The four-wheel steering allows for better turning radius in restricted spaces. The two-wheel steering is for on-road driving. And the crab-like movement makes the carrier agile for lateral approaches and delicate exits. The MDR700 rig is easy to navigate and can move at up to 10 km/h (6 mph). For improved visibility and safety, multiple cameras are located on the rig and viewed/monitored from the cabin of the carrier.

Power to Get It Done

The MDR700 is powered by a 90kW electric motor and features the proven Boart Longyear LM™ 700 feed frame delivering 81.4kN of pullback. The MDR700, coupled with the proven HQ rotation unit, gets you to the target productively in all coring diameters up to HQ™. The drill rig also features a breakout system on the rotation unit that uses high-pressure oil and gear rack assistance to effortlessly break rod joints.

Engineered Safety Controls

The MDR700’s engineered safety controls include a dual emergency braking system and an engine fire suppression system so it meets the most advanced underground mine standards. The spring-close and hydraulic open rod clamp ensures fail-safe operation in case of a burst hose or power loss.

The rig also offers exclusive features like a patented rod handler and optional DCi (Drill Control Interface) that takes safety as well as productivity to the next level. The DCi offers semi-automated drilling, rod feed and pull functions and controls while controlling both the rod handler and the rig.

The rod handler sets new standards for ease-of use, versatility, and most importantly, safety. Utilizing innovative high-capacity springs acting on three tungsten-carbide insert jaws, the rod handler isolates the driller from the hazards of manual rod handling. And the smart hydraulics provides synchronized control between the rotation unit and the foot clamp for faster and safer rod handling.

• Movable control panel allows optimal viewing angle
• Laser safety system halts drill operations if laser beam is broken
• Safety sensors enable detection of drill rod, ensuring safe loading position
• Reduces operator fatigue and improves safety
• Hard stops ensure fast and accurate rod alignment

The optional Drill Control Interface (DCi) provides semi-automation and a fully electronic interface to safely and efficiently operate both the rod handler and the drill. The DCi is a substantial step for increased safety on-site by moving the driller away from moving parts and hydraulic hoses – isolating the driller from the hazards.

To see the MDR700 in action or download detailed technical specifications, visit http://www.boartlongyear.com/MDR700.

ABOUT BOART LONGYEAR

Celebrating its 125th year anniversary in 2015, Boart Longyear is the world’s leading provider of drilling services and products for mining and drilling companies globally. It also has a substantial presence in aftermarket parts and service, energy, mine de-watering, oil sands exploration and production drilling.

The Global Drilling Services division operates in over 30 countries for a diverse mining customer base spanning a wide range of commodities, including copper, gold, nickel, zinc, uranium and other metals and minerals. The Global Products division designs, manufactures and sells drilling products and aftermarket parts and services to customers in over 100 countries.
Boart Longyear is headquartered in Salt Lake City, Utah, USA, and listed on the Australian Securities Exchange in Sydney, Australia. More information about Boart Longyear can be found at http://www.boartlongyear.com/