At the PDAC event in Toronto last week, Boart Longyear made two major technology launches; the LS600 sonic rig, support vehicle and sonic tooling; along with the launch the 10UMX bit, the latest addition to the patented Ultramatrix (UMX) family of diamond coring bits. The LS600 had already been featured in the IM February 2012 issue that was distributed at the event. Providing advanced sonic drill technology with innovative and patented designs, the LS600 rig delivers more accurate core sampling, less than one-percent hole deviation, reduced waste, and faster penetration than conventional methods.
“Boart Longyear is proud to continue its tradition of drilling innovation by offering the LS600 sonic rig and tooling,” said Kevin Tomaszewski, director of global product management at Boart Longyear. “By releasing the LS600 for purchase, we deliver advanced sonic technology to the field, allowing drillers to gather continuous and undisturbed core samples in varying and difficult ground formations.” The technology incorporates sonic frequencies that match the resonant energy of the ground, allowing the core barrel to easily advance in unconsolidated and difficult overburden formations. During drilling, boreholes are cased continuously by first allowing the core barrel to advance into the substrate, followed by the outer casing. This protective measure allows for the accurate measurement of continuous in-situ (undisturbed) core samples, even in varying ground conditions. The LS600 is ideal for mining applications such as tailings and heap leach pad exploration. Drillers can gather accurate core samples twice as fast with sonic technology and reduce waste by up to 80%, because no fluid, air or mud is needed. The LS600 can reach a drilling depth of up to 182 m. The sonic head of the drill produces frequencies of up to 150 Hz through a robust oscillator assembly. An innovative air spring system protects the rig from the extreme vibrations and redirects the energy down the drill string to the bit face. The sonic head also features a proven reliable transmission, which is further backed by Boart Longyear’s Sonic Head Service Program. Sonic rig tooling and accessories are sold with the LS600 and leasing options are available.
The 10UMX is a high-performance diamond coring bit with the freest-cutting matrix available, enabling the bit to penetrate the very hardest rock formations in extreme conditions. “The 10UMX diamond coring bit completes the product range for our award-winning family of UMX bits, providing a bit for any type of ground condition encountered,” said Matt Baird, global product manager for Boart Longyear. “We have tested these bits in all regions of the globe and take great pride in providing drillers the most advanced line of diamond bits in the industry to maximize their productivity.” UMX bits are engineered to outperform existing bit technology in a wide range of drilling conditions and ground formations. UMX bits use advanced metallurgical formulas to provide increased penetration capabilities, turning easily from one ground formation to another. The optimised life of the UMX bits translates to less tripping and increased productivity. UMX bits also utilize Boart Longyear’s patented Stage waterway design. The geometry of these windows sustains the integrity of the bit through the entire life of the bit, allowing for a variety of crown heights including the original 25 mm, providing maximum bit life. The Twin-Taper design dramatically improves surface flushing, forcing debris through the windows while keeping the bit face clear and reinforcing the inner diameter. The unique Razorcut protrusions on the face of the bit contain diamonds that enable the bit to begin cutting right out of the box. The arrangement of these protrusions also improves the tracking and balance in the hole when drilling begins.
