Boart Longyear showcased its LS™250 MiniSonic drill and a range of other drilling solutions and technologies at Mining Indaba recently, including rod handling solutions, the Drill Control Interface (DCi), BLH DTH Hammers and the S36 rock drill. The new LS250 features the MiniSonic drill head that has been used in the field for more than 10 years by Boart Longyear Drilling Services. Featuring a patented airbag system that isolates the vibration from the rig and transfers it down the hole for more efficient drilling, the LS250 MiniSonic is wide track mounted and offers low ground pressure (0.28 bar/4 psi) for increased accessibility.

“Risks of hand injuries are significantly reduced with Boart Longyear’s rod handling and presenting innovations.The range of patented rod handlers and rod presenters significantly reduces a driller’s exposure to this risk by totally or partially automating the rod tripping process.” The Drill Control Interface (DCi) enables drillers to operate equipment at a safe distance from moving parts and hydraulic hoses. The DCi provides a fully electronic interface to safely and efficiently operate underground drilling equipment, such as the LM™ series, via an independent, lightweight control panel. The LM75, LM90 and LM110 rigs are compatible with the DCi system. When using a pulse width modulation (PWM) rod handler, the DCi can control both the rig and the rod handler via an integrated control panel. The DCi increases safety on-site by moving the driller away from moving parts and hydraulic hoses.

The S36 rock drill is a powerful 114 mm diameter bore drifter-type drill with independently controlled rotation. Designed for deep hole drilling in both surface and underground applications, the S36 can be mounted to any suitable existing feed system, and can be mounted on screw and chain feed cradles for development drifting, fan hole and ring drilled blastholes. The drill features remote controlled operation and is described as ideal for benching.