Sandvik says it is introducing a new push bore reamer system that will improve penetration rate, minimise downtime and simplify in-field service in underground slot hole drilling.

The tool system includes two Ø740-millimetre push bore reamers — one for upwards and one for downwards push boring — and a fit-for-purpose cutter. Key upgrades include simplified in-field service with bolted-on wing and wear pads and a patented saddle design for better material clearing in the cutter pocket. The cutter itself is equipped with a tougher carbide grade and a steeper cone angle on the shell to reduce skidding and carbide damage. It also features an improved bearing design and more heat-tolerant grease.

Simulations and tests it says confirm superior quality and productivity, extended service life and less downtime. By reducing hole size from Ø750 to Ø740 millimetres and enabling higher rig capacity, customers also experience increased penetration rates. Less servicing and easier spare parts changes can save an average operation around 180 hours in a year, as these processes are now more than 35% faster than for the previous reamers.

“Our customers will experience fewer cutter changes, easier in-field spare part replacements and reduced service-related transportation, improving both safety and sustainability,” said Russell Clayton, Product Manager Raise Boring at Sandvik Mining and Rock Solutions. “We also took the opportunity to design both up and down Ø740 reamers to utilise identical spare part components as far as practically possible, and this sufficiently reduces inventory demands when you plan to drill with both reamers.”