We are preparing the International Mining Technology Hall of Fame induction event news for publication. Edmund Longyear was an inductee and, always looking forward, Longyear’s company continues its innovative path. Just after the event, the world’s leading provider of integrated drilling services, equipment and performance tooling, expanded its line of underground LM™ modular diamond drill rigs to include the new LM110. Ideal for drilling deep holes, the LM110 is the most powerful Boart Longyear underground diamond coring drill rig to date. Particular features of the LM110: 1. Reversible Feed Cylinder – this reversibility increases up-hole drilling capacity; 2. Semi-automated Rod Handling (Optional) – makes handling of rods safer and easier; 3. High Torque Breakout – breaks most rod joints automatically; 4. Fail Safe Rod Clamp – hydraulic open and spring close rod clamp results in fail safe operation.

Equipped with a 110-kW power pack, the LM110 delivers up to 33% more torque at the drill head than the LM90 — which was previously Boart Longyear’s most powerful underground diamond drill rig. Also featuring a 128 kN feed frame, the LM110 provides high pullback force and a fast rod-handling rate, which allows for increased drilling productivity.

“Our underground drilling customers requested a drill that could provide more torque at the drill head” said Justin Warren, Senior Product Manager. “The LM110 provides contractors with more power featuring the proven technology of our LM line of drill rigs.”

The LM series includes the LM30SS, LM55, LM75, LM90 and now the LM110. The rigs range from small-compact to robust drills that use an electronic control system. LM rigs provide reliable, high-performance deep-hole drilling and are economical to own and maintain because of their modular design. The LM rigs are made up of five modular units: a power pack, feed frame, rotation unit, foot clamp and controller. The components can be interchanged to adapt to customer requirements as their needs change.

“Because of the modular nature of the LM series, Boart Longyear can provide the 110-kW power pack as an upgrade kit to customers that own an LM series drill rig, providing a more cost effective option than purchasing a complete new drill,” added Warren.

The LM110 can be equipped with a rod handler and the Drill Control Interface™ (DCi™) for enhanced safety, hands-free making or breaking of joints, and semi-autonomous drilling.